If you are thinking of hiring an attorney, you should know that you are entitled to certain rights.
These are not rights guaranteed by law, but they are rights that we, as attorneys, feel you should have.
We believe injury accident victims have the following rights:

• Right to attorney-client privilege.
  
• Right to have your legal rights and options explained to you in plain English and in a straightforward manner so you understand completely.
  
• Right to talk to your attorney within a reasonable period of time.
  
• Right to expect competence from our firm and all who work here.
  
• Right to know the truth about your case.
  
• Right to be updated regularly and in a timely manner as to the progress of your case.
  
• Right to a fair written agreement with our firm.
  
• Right to a fair fee for the work we do.
  
• Right to make the ultimate decision whether to settle your case

Client Confidentiality A lawyer, or any member the lawyer's staff, cannot reveal most things you say or show to your lawyer in confidence.
There are exceptions, such as ongoing child abuse.
The law also states that you may waive the attorney-client privilege if you sue us.
If you have any questions about this, please do not hesitate to ask.
Attorney-Client Relationship The attorney-client relationship is a time-honored tradition.
All good relationships are based on trust, which requires honest and open communication.
The attorney-client relationship is no different.
All of your private conversations and communications with you will be considered confidential.
The information you provide in confidence will remain confidential, so long as you do not expose it.
The only exception is that provided for by federal and Oregon state law, or if you decide to sue your attorney.
Your attorney will not reveal any confidences or secrets without your consent, except as necessary to advocate in your case.
At the same time, he or she will need you to be completely open, and give as much information as you can about yourself and the circumstances surrounding your case.
Your Job and Responsibilities It is very important for your attorney to be kept apprised of all medical treatments and recovery.
Keep in touch with your attorney, who should call you at least once a month or so.
If anything significant happens, make sure to call - do not wait for them to call you.
Questions to answer for your lawyer:

• Are you still attending regularly scheduled medical appointments?
• Have you had any appointments recently?
• Has your medical provider changed your treatment plan?
• Is your medical provider ordering more tests or specialized treatment?
• Have you been referred to another medical provider?
• Has your condition changed? Are you feeling better? Are you feeling worse?

If your attorney does not protect your rights during a personal injury case, or does not treat you well as a client, you can always find another lawyer.
Remember, you have rights as a personal injury victim and it is your lawyer's job to protect them.