Tigard Workers’ Compensation Attorneys

If you or a loved one has been injured while on the job in Tigard or anywhere else in Washington County, trying to navigate Oregon’s workers’ compensation system can be overwhelming — especially if you’re still trying to heal. At Shlesinger & deVilleneuve Attorneys, P.C., our skilled attorneys represent individuals injured on the job at all phases of their workers’ compensation claim – from filing an initial workers’ compensation claim to handling any appeals, settlements, and concurrent third-party claims.

We are experienced in managing denied and delayed claims, disputes regarding medical treatment, permanent disability ratings, vocational retraining benefits, and claim settlements. We also help injured workers whose injuries are caused by someone other than their employer, potentially opening the door to additional compensation outside of workers’ compensation.

Understanding Oregon Workers’ Compensation Benefits

Workers’ compensation insurance is designed to protect workers who are injured on the job, covering medical expenses and partially replacing lost wages. Oregon workers’ compensation laws are among the most complex in the nation. Many injured workers find that insurance companies deny claims, withhold benefits, or provide nominal payments, making attorney representation critical.

In Oregon, workers’ compensation benefits may include:

• Coverage for medical treatment related to the work injury
• Partial wage replacement while you are unable to work
• Vocational assistance or retraining when you cannot return to your prior job
• Compensation for permanent impairments
• Survivor benefits for families of workers killed on the job

Once a claim is filed, you are no longer dealing directly with your employer—you are dealing

with their insurance company. These insurers are focused on limiting costs, not protecting your future. Our role is to level the playing field and advocate for your rights.

Why Injured Workers in Tigard Need Legal Representation

Workplace injury cases often come down to the wire due to technicalities, strict deadlines, and how medical records characterize your injury. One missed deadline, an incomplete report, or an inadequately documented medical history can undermine a sound claim.

We have over five decades of experience protecting the rights of injured Oregonians at Shlesinger & deVilleneuve. We understand how insurance companies operate, how claims are reviewed and approved, why they are denied, and what to do about it. Injured workers shouldn’t have to face insurance companies alone — and we make sure they don’t.

• Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Oregon: Time limits are critical. You will want to inform your employer of the injury and obtain medical care immediately. It is important to describe, in detail, how and when the injury occurred when visiting a healthcare professional. Such pre-existing medical records often make or break a claim decision. If you have questions or concerns about how to report an injury—or if you are being pressured to give less than the truth about what happened—call our office as soon as possible for help.
• Denied Claims and Notices of Closure: You typically have 60 days to appeal if your claim is denied, which is a common occurrence. Failure to meet this deadline may cause your claim to be barred forever. Likewise, if a claim is closed, you can receive a Notice of Closure, which includes information on permanent disability benefits. There are strict deadlines for appealing these notices, and they may potentially undervalue the severity of your injury. These amounts are not determined by insurance companies looking out for your best interest. A knowledgeable workers’ compensation lawyer can scrutinize the closure, dispute incorrect ratings, or act on challenges when benefits are not paid in full.
• Dispute over medical care, vocational retraining: Insurers often deny essential medical treatment, surgical procedures, and benefits for vocational retraining. Any refusal of treatment or retraining is met by a specified deadline. If you have received a denial for medical services or retraining, it is crucial to act quickly to avoid forfeiting your claim.
• Third-Party Injury Claims: Some work-related injuries occur due to someone other than your employer being at fault — a contractor, property owner, or manufacturer of equipment, for example. In such cases, you may have a third-party action available in addition to your workers’ compensation benefits. They can substantially increase the total value of your recovery, but they have their own deadlines and legal requirements.
• Settlements, Fees, and Costs: Some workers’ compensation cases may be settled, but insurance company offers rarely come close to the worth of a claim. It’s important to know what you may be waiving before agreeing to a settlement.

Attorney fees from Oregon workers’ compensation claims are governed by statute and are also contingent, so you pay nothing unless we recover or increase your benefits. We may be able to advance some of the costs associated with developing your case, such as medical records, expert opinions, or hearing expenses. These are not attorney fees, and they go through a transparent process.

Dedicated Advocacy for Injured Workers in Tigard

Shlesinger & deVilleneuve has resolved hundreds of workers’ compensation claims each year, fighting for the rights of injured workers across Oregon. Our firm is built around responsiveness, experience, and compassion. When you contact us, a knowledgeable team member will return your call the same day to schedule a free consultation.

At Shlesinger & deVilleneuve, your recovery, security, and future come first—and we don’t get paid unless we win for you.