how to file a complaint with oregon attorney general

by Fred Walsh 9 min read

Attorney General's Consumer Hotline
  1. Toll-Free: 1-877-877-9392, 8:30 – 4:30, Monday-Friday.
  2. Email: [email protected].
  3. Fill out the online Consumer Complaint Form »

How do I file a complaint against an Oregon lawyer?

If you think an Oregon lawyer has violated a disciplinary rule, you can file a written complaint with the Client Assistance Office. We will screen your inquiry to determine if there is sufficient basis to warrant further investigation.

How do I file a complaint with the Attorney General?

Filing a Complaint with the Attorney General Find your state office. Locate the online complaint form. Fill in the personal information. Describe the transaction. Explain what was wrong with the product or service. List any action you have taken. Notify if you have hired a lawyer. Explain what you are seeking. Attach necessary documentation.

How does the Oregon State Bar investigate inquiries and complaints about lawyers?

This is general information about standards for lawyer conduct and how the Oregon State Bar (OSB) investigates inquiries and complaints about lawyers. All lawyers promise to uphold the law and to comply with rules of conduct adopted by the Oregon Supreme Court.

What do you need to know about filing a complaint?

A complaint is a formal written document filed by a party seeking legal relief by outlining the allegations, details, remedies, and parties involved. The process for filing includes gathering paperwork, contacting various involved parties, and taking legal action. Gather your information.

How to contact OSB client assistance?

How much does the bar charge to copy documents?

Does the OSB have jurisdiction to investigate complaints?

About this website

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What does the Oregon attorney general do?

The attorney general appears in and represents the state in all court actions and legal proceedings in which the state of Oregon is a party or has an interest, including proceedings that involve elected and appointed state officials, state agencies, boards and commissions.

How do I contact the attorney general of Oregon?

Main DOJ Referral Line: 503-378-4400Office of the Attorney General. Media Inquiries: 503-378-6002. ... Child Support. General Information: ... Consumer Protection. Toll-Free Consumer Hotline: ... Charitable Activities. General Information: 971-673-1880. ... Crime Victim and Survivor Services. General Information: 503-378-5348. ... For the Media.

What is the Oregon Consumer Protection Act?

The UTPA provides individuals with a right to sue for deceptive practices with the sale of real estate, goods, or services.

When should I file a consumer complaint?

A consumer complaint should be filed within two years from the date on which the cause of action or deficiency in service or defect in goods arises.

What does the Attorney General do?

The Attorney General is the representative of the public in all legal proceedings for the enforcement of law and the assertion or protection of public rights. The Attorney General defends the constitutionality of Bills referred to the Supreme Court under Article 26 of the Constitution.

How does the Department of Justice help people?

The Department of Justice enforces federal laws, seeks just punishment for the guilty, and ensures the fair and impartial administration of justice.

How do I report an illegal business in Oregon?

File a fraud allegation report online » Call the DHS Fraud Hotline at 1-888-372-8301 (8:00 am to 5:00 pm Pacific Time) Fax your written complaint to 503-373-1525. Address your fax to ATTN: HOTLINE.

What is the Consumer Protection Network?

About the FTC Our mission is protecting consumers and competition by preventing anticompetitive, deceptive, and unfair business practices through law enforcement, advocacy, and education without unduly burdening legitimate business activity.

Is false advertising illegal in Oregon?

Oregon Revised Statute (ORS) 696.301(6): Misleading or untruthful advertising of any kind is grounds for discipline. ORS 696.301(4) makes knowingly or recklessly published materially misleading or untruthful advertising a direct license law violation.

What are the grounds for complaint?

The Most Common Grounds for ComplaintNEGLIGENCE. This category includes all grounds related to: ... FAILURE TO EXPLAIN, INFORM AND ADVISE. ... POORLY CARRYING OUT THE MANDATE. ... ATTITUDE (LACK OF MODERATION AND OBJECTIVITY) ... PERSONAL INFORMATION. ... CONFLICT OF INTEREST. ... FALSIFIED DOCUMENTS, MISREPRESENTATIONS.

What are the 8 basic right of a consumer?

These rights are: the right to equality in the consumer market; privacy; choice; disclosure and information; fair and responsible marketing; fair and honest dealing; fair, just and reasonable terms and conditions; and fair value, good quality and safety.

How do you raise a consumer complaint?

A dissatisfied consumer can file a complaint directly with the national commission or appeal against decisions of the state commission within a month from the date of the order. The court fee is Rs 5,000 and the demand draft should be in the name of The Registrar, National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission.

Ethics Opinions - Oregon State Bar

Oregon State Bar Center. Phone: (503) 620-0222 Toll-free in Oregon: (800) 452-8260 Facsimile: (503) 684-1366

Ethics Opinions Table of Contents - Oregon State Bar

Oregon State Bar Center. Phone: (503) 620-0222 Toll-free in Oregon: (800) 452-8260 Facsimile: (503) 684-1366

Oregon Judicial Department : Complaint Form : Complaint Information ...

PLEASE NOTE that the online complaint form times out after two minutes. Please prepare all your complaint materials before clicking the button below.

Ticket in the door ALL entrance exams Flashcards | Quizlet

Start studying Ticket in the door ALL entrance exams. Learn vocabulary, terms, and more with flashcards, games, and other study tools.

Rule 1.6: Confidentiality of Information - American Bar Association

Client-Lawyer Relationship (a) A lawyer shall not reveal information relating to the representation of a client unless the client gives informed consent, the disclosure is impliedly authorized in order to carry out the representation or the disclosure is permitted by paragraph (b).

Rule 5.5: Unauthorized Practice of Law; Multijurisdictional Practice of Law

Law Firms And Associations (a) A lawyer shall not practice law in a jurisdiction in violation of the regulation of the legal profession in that jurisdiction, or assist another in doing so.

How to contact OSB client assistance?

Valuable time can be saved if you understand the complaint process. If you have any questions, please call (503) 620-0222 and ask for the Client Assistance Office prior to submitting.

How much does the bar charge to copy documents?

Please keep a copy of what you submit. If you later request copies of what you have submitted, the bar charges 25 cents per page to copy the documents you request. If you use the online form below, you will receive a copy of your submission as confirmation of the bar's receipt of your complaint at the email address you provide on the form.

Does the OSB have jurisdiction to investigate complaints?

The OSB generally does not have jurisdiction to consider complaints regarding judges. Complaints regarding judges fall within the jurisdiction of the Commission on Judicial Fitness and Disability, rather than the Oregon State Bar. Consequently, the bar would be unable to investigate those allegations. You may wish to contact the Commission on Judicial Fitness and Disability at (503) 626-6776, or PO Box 1130, Beaverton, Oregon 97075-1130.

How to file a complaint against a company?

To file a complaint, visit your state's Attorney General's website, locate the online complaint form, fill it out and attach the necessary documents, and then mail it to the Attorney General's office address. Each state designates an agency to handle consumer complaints of fraud, deception, or unfair business practices. Typically, the state’s attorney general investigates those complaints. If you have been the victim of fraud or deception, you should file a complaint with the attorney general. A complaint is a formal written document filed by a party seeking legal relief by outlining the allegations, details, remedies, and parties involved. The process for filing includes gathering paperwork, contacting various involved parties, and taking legal action.

How long does it take to get a complaint from a company?

Generally, a representative will contact you within two weeks via correspondence or phone to confirm your complaint. If you haven’t heard from the company after two weeks , then contact the attorney general.

What to do if you have been victim of fraud?

If you have been the victim of fraud or deception, you should file a complaint with the attorney general . A complaint is a formal written document filed by a party seeking legal relief by outlining the allegations, details, remedies, and parties involved. The process for filing includes gathering paperwork, contacting various involved parties, ...

What documents do the Attorney General want to see?

Attach necessary documentation. The Attorney General will want to see any and all contracts, correspondence, receipts, cancelled checks, and advertisements. Do not send originals.

How to contact a company about a product?

Send the business necessary information. 1 Your name, physical and email address, and phone number. 2 The product or service, including the brand name, model and serial number. 3 The problem with the product or service, in as much detail as possible.

What to list when contacting a company?

List any action you have taken. Typically, you will be asked whether or not you have contacted the individual or company.

How to find consumer protection link?

If you are taken to the attorney general’s main page, look for a link for “consumer protection.” Click on it.

What happens when the OGEC receives a complaint?

When the OGEC staff receives a complaint, the executive director first reviews the complaint to determine if the alleged violation falls within the agency’s jurisdiction (Oregon Government Ethics, Lobbying Regulation, or Executive Session laws).

What are the ethics laws in Oregon?

Oregon Government Ethics law ORS Chapter 244 1 Prohibits use of public office or position for financial gain 2 Requires public disclosure of financial conflicts of interest 3 Requires designated elected and appointed officials to file annual disclosures of sources of economic interest 4 Limits gifts that an official may receive per calendar year 5 Applies to all elected and appointed officials, employees and volunteers at all levels of state and local government in all three branches

What to do if OGEC alleges failure to declare a conflict of interest?

For example, if the allegation is failure to declare a conflict of interest, include meeting minutes that record the discussion preceding the vote in question. Due to the short initial review period, the OGEC may not have time to acquire records before the review period expires. The Commission's decision about whether or not there is a sufficient basis to move the complaint forward may be based in large part on the documentation you provide.

What happens if a complaint is not within the commission's jurisdiction?

If the complaint is not within the commission’s jurisdiction, the executive director sends the person who submitted the complaint a letter advising that the commission cannot take action on the matter. About 90 percent of the cases reviewed by the commission are initiated as a result of complaints submitted by the public.

How long does it take to complete a preliminary review?

The preliminary review phase must be completed within 30 days (135 for Lobbying) of the complaint being filed or the action being initiated by the commission. The objective of preliminary review is to determine if sufficient cause exists to conduct an investigation.

What percentage of cases are reviewed by the Commission?

About 90 percent of the cases reviewed by the commission are initiated as a result of complaints submitted by the public. The balance of cases are initiated by the commission at regular meetings as a result of information obtained from other sources, such as government agencies or media coverage. Preliminary Review Phase.

Is the OGEC required to conduct preliminary review?

The OGEC is required by law to conduct preliminary review confidentially. If an inquiry is made, the OGEC will make no public disclosure or comment other than to acknowledge that a complaint was received. This confidentiality requirement applies only to OGEC personnel.

Who can file a complaint against ODHS?

Any ODHS client or customer who believes they received poor customer service or were treated in a discriminatory manner may file a formal complaint. Follow the instructions on the form to complete the ODHS Client Complaint and Report of Discrimination form (see below), then:

How do I file a complaint about poor customer service or unfair treatment?

Any ODHS client or customer who believes they received poor customer service or were treated in a discriminatory manner may file a formal complaint.

What is the GAO?

The GAO is the Ombuds office to help affected parties work through questions, concerns, or complaints related to Oregon Department of Huma​n Services (ODHS) programs or services. An ombudsman, or Ombuds professional, is an official appointed to investigate individuals' complaints against inefficient or inequitable administration.

What is the role of GAO?

GAO coordinates and manages this complaint process. When a report of discrimination is received, GAO will either independently investigate the matter or refer the case to the appropriate government authority for investigation.

Does GAO have to follow Oregon law?

GAO must adhere to Oregon statutes, administrative rules, department and program policies without exception, including our responsibility as mandatory reporters of abuse and neglect. GAO cannot review or overturn final orders on administrative hearings or court decisions.

How to file a complaint with OSB?

If you want to file a complaint, you must put your concerns in writing. No particular form is required. You may submit a complaint regarding an OSB Lawyer on our website. Please print if you handwrite a complaint. Include copies of any documents that are relevant to your complaint if you have them. Do not send originals unless we specifically ask; we will not return documents to you. Please note that all documents received by the bar are considered public records. Please only use one side of each page.

How can the Oregon State Bar help me?

The OSB Client Assistance Office may be able to help you resolve a problem with your lawyer that you are unable to resolve on your own. For instance, we may be able to help you get your file, or resolve a communications problem between you and your lawyer. We can explain and provide some general information about the legal system, the lawyer-client relationship, and the ethical obligations of lawyers. We can also refer you to other agencies and resources that offer help we cannot provide. The Client Assistance Office cannot give you legal advice and we cannot force a lawyer to resolve a problem in any particular way. You can reach the Client Assistance Office at (503) 620-0222 in the Portland metro area, and at (800) 452-8260 from elsewhere in Oregon.

What should I do if I think a lawyer has acted improperly?

If you think an Oregon lawyer has violated a disciplinary rule, you can file a written complaint with the Client Assistance Office. We will screen your inquiry to determine if there is sufficient basis to warrant further investigation. We may refer it to Disciplinary Counsel's Office for further review. The disciplinary rules are contained in the Oregon Rules of Professional Conduct.

What if I think my lawyer stole my money?

The OSB Client Security Fund may reimburse a client whose lawyer has misappropriated or stolen money or other property. The theft must have happened during the course of a lawyer-client relationship or while the lawyer was acting as a fiduciary in connection with the practice of law. Information about the Client Security Fund and forms in order to apply for reimbursement are available online or by contacting the office of OSB General Counsel at (503) 620-0222, ext. 334 or (800) 452-8624, ext. 334 (toll-free within Oregon).

What if I think my lawyer's fees are unreasonable?

Sometimes a lawyer's fees violate the rules of professional conduct. In these cases, the lawyer may be disciplined. More often, however, clients believe their lawyer's fees are not reasonable because they lost their case or because they feel their lawyer did a poor job representing them. In these cases, clients want their lawyer's fees to be reduced. The Fee Dispute Resolution Program offers a way for Oregon lawyers and their clients to voluntarily resolve these kinds of disputes over fees. Independent, voluntary mediators or arbitrators are used to help resolve lawyer fee disputes. The person who requests mediation or arbitration must pay a modest fee. The decision of the arbitrator is binding on the parties, subject to only limited court review. Mediation is a nonbinding process in which parties work with a mediator to seek a mutually agreeable outcome. If you would like more information about the program, or would like the help of the program in resolving a fee dispute, please call (503) 620-0222, ext. 334 to request forms. Please be sure to include the name and location of the lawyer involved in the dispute.

What if I think my lawyer committed malpractice?

Lawyers sometimes make mistakes. If the mistake causes a loss, you may be able to recover through a malpractice suit. Legal malpractice is the failure of a lawyer to represent a client in a way that conforms with the legal standard of care in the community. Note that not every bad result or error in judgment is legal malpractice. If you think your lawyer might have been negligent in representing you, you should contact a lawyer who handles professional malpractice cases. All Oregon lawyers in the private practice of law whose principal office is in Oregon are required to have professional liability coverage.

How can I find out if my lawyer has had problems in the past?

OSB records concerning lawyers are public. The Oregon State Bar can provide some general information over the telephone about a lawyer's disciplinary history and about other inquiries concerning a lawyer. Disciplinary history for individual bar members also is available through the online member directory. Individuals wishing to review public records can submit a request online using the form available through this link: Public Records Center.

How to contact OSB client assistance?

Valuable time can be saved if you understand the complaint process. If you have any questions, please call (503) 620-0222 and ask for the Client Assistance Office prior to submitting.

How much does the bar charge to copy documents?

Please keep a copy of what you submit. If you later request copies of what you have submitted, the bar charges 25 cents per page to copy the documents you request. If you use the online form below, you will receive a copy of your submission as confirmation of the bar's receipt of your complaint at the email address you provide on the form.

Does the OSB have jurisdiction to investigate complaints?

The OSB generally does not have jurisdiction to consider complaints regarding judges. Complaints regarding judges fall within the jurisdiction of the Commission on Judicial Fitness and Disability, rather than the Oregon State Bar. Consequently, the bar would be unable to investigate those allegations. You may wish to contact the Commission on Judicial Fitness and Disability at (503) 626-6776, or PO Box 1130, Beaverton, Oregon 97075-1130.

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