Personal Injury
Attorneys in Albany

If you need to see a doctor because of your injury, have had to take time off work, or if the insurance company is not providing you with the full value of your claim for your loss, then you may want to consult with an attorney. At Shlesinger & deVilleneuve Attorneys, P.C. in Albany, we provide you with a complimentary case review and outline your rights. Many of our clients are unaware of their entitlements — including lost wages , pain and suffering, and continued treatment — until after they’ve spoken with the lawyers and undergone an evaluation.

Oregon has a “modified comparative fault” rule, allowing you to recover damages as long as your degree of fault was less than 51%. Your compensation will be reduced according to your percentage of fault. Our injury lawyers in Albany can examine the facts of your case, collect evidence, and attempt to demonstrate that the other party is more responsible than you are, so you can receive fair compensation.

You’re supposed to report your work injury as soon as possible, preferably the same day. Under Oregon law, you can wait up to 90 days. However, waiting may also raise suspicions that you aren’t truly hurt or could delay the process. Once you inform your employer, please call us at Shlesinger & deVilleneuve — our lawyers can ensure that your claim is filed correctly and defend your rights if there is a disagreement.

For the most part in Oregon, yes, you have the right to choose your own attending physician as long as they are qualified and agree to treat workers’ compensation patients. However, employers or insurers occasionally steer employees to particular clinics. We assist our Albany clients in understanding their rights relative to medical care and in receiving the most appropriate care from a physician who prioritizes their health above an insurance company’s bottom line.

The process typically lasts 3 to 6 months for an initial decision, but may take longer for appeals. Delays are frequently a result of medical records that have not been submitted or administrative issues. Our office can help streamline the process by ensuring your claim is thorough and accurately reflects our medical restrictions from the outset.

SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) is based on your work history and the Social Security taxes you have paid. At the same time, SSI (Supplemental Security Income) is available to individuals with limited income and resources — regardless of their work history. We aid Albany residents in understanding which program for which they are eligible — and also frequently benefit from both, to the extent one is entitled.