Portland

When accidents happen in Portland, Maine, the physical, emotional, and financial toll can be overwhelming. We understand that navigating the aftermath of a personal injury isn’t just about recovery—it’s about getting the compensation you deserve to move forward with your life.

Our network of experienced personal injury lawyers in Portland, ME specializes in representing victims of car accidents, slip and falls, workplace injuries, and medical malpractice. With intimate knowledge of Maine’s legal system and decades of combined experience, our attorneys have successfully secured millions in settlements for Portland residents facing difficult circumstances.

Top 10 Personal Injury Lawyers in Portland, Maine

1. Hardy Wolf & Downing

Hardy Wolf & Downing has established itself as a premier personal injury firm in Portland with over 40 years of experience. Their attorneys specialize in car accidents, slip and falls, and workplace injuries. Clients consistently praise their thorough case preparation and aggressive negotiation tactics that have resulted in numerous six-figure settlements.

2. Berman & Simmons

Berman & Simmons maintains an impressive reputation for handling complex personal injury cases throughout Maine. Their team of 16 dedicated attorneys has secured over $1 billion in recoveries for their clients. Their specialties include traumatic brain injuries, medical malpractice, and product liability cases.

3. Peter Thompson & Associates

Peter Thompson & Associates focuses exclusively on personal injury law with offices in Portland and surrounding areas. Their attorneys bring previous insurance defense experience to the table, giving them unique insights into how insurance companies evaluate claims. Notable results include several multi-million dollar verdicts for serious injury victims.

4. Gideon Asen LLC

Gideon Asen LLC is led by attorneys who previously defended hospitals and doctors, now using that knowledge to advocate for injured patients. Their specialization in medical malpractice has resulted in record-setting verdicts in Maine. Their boutique approach ensures clients work directly with senior attorneys throughout their case.

5. Lowry & Associates

Lowry & Associates has served Portland injury victims for over 35 years. Their attorneys are particularly skilled in handling motorcycle accidents and pedestrian injuries. They offer 24/7 availability and have recovered millions for clients while maintaining a personal touch with their “no fee unless you win” guarantee.

6. Briggs & Wholey, LLC

Briggs & Wholey brings specialized experience in catastrophic injury cases including spinal cord and burn injuries. The firm’s founding partners have over 50 years of combined experience and maintain a small caseload to ensure personalized attention. Their trial preparation has resulted in numerous favorable settlements before court proceedings begin.

7. The Law Offices of Joe Bornstein

The Law Offices of Joe Bornstein has helped over 25,000 Mainers with personal injury claims since 1974. Their team of 18 attorneys specializes in workers’ compensation and Social Security disability claims alongside traditional personal injury cases. Their community involvement and accessible multi-office approach have made them a household name in Portland.

8. Terry Law Firm, P.A.

Terry Law Firm offers dedicated representation from experienced litigators who previously worked at larger firms. Their boutique approach provides direct partner access throughout your case. They excel in handling car accident claims and premises liability cases with particular attention to detailed evidence gathering.

9. Shaheen & Gordon, P.A.

Shaheen & Gordon combines resources of a large firm with personalized service across Maine and New Hampshire. Their diverse team includes former insurance adjusters who understand claim valuation from the inside. Their Portland office specializes in wrongful death cases and catastrophic injuries with several seven-figure recoveries in recent years.

10. Pickus & Landry

Pickus & Landry represents a new generation of personal injury attorneys in Portland focusing on technology-forward case management. Their innovative approach includes virtual consultations and digital document handling. Despite their modern methods, they maintain traditional values of client communication, responding to inquiries within 24 hours and providing regular case updates.

Understanding Personal Injury Law in Maine

Personal injury law in Maine encompasses legal claims where individuals have suffered harm due to someone else’s negligence. Understanding these laws is crucial when seeking compensation for injuries sustained in Portland or throughout the state.

Definition and Elements of Negligence

Personal injury claims in Maine are based on the legal concept of negligence. To successfully prove negligence in a Portland personal injury case, four essential elements must be established:

  1. Duty of Care – The defendant had a legal obligation to act reasonably toward the plaintiff
  2. Breach of Duty – The defendant failed to fulfill this obligation through action or inaction
  3. Causation – The defendant’s breach directly caused the plaintiff’s injuries
  4. Damages – The plaintiff suffered actual damages (physical, emotional, or financial) as a result

Common personal injury cases in Portland include auto accidents, slip and falls, wrongful death claims, and medical malpractice. These injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to catastrophic injuries requiring lifelong care.

Maine’s Statute of Limitations

In Maine, personal injury victims must file their lawsuit within a specific timeframe known as the statute of limitations. For most personal injury cases, plaintiffs have six years from the date of the accident to file a claim. However, this timeframe varies depending on the case type:

  • General personal injury claims: 6 years
  • Medical malpractice: 3 years from the date of injury or discovery
  • Claims against government entities: Notice must be given within 180 days, with formal claims filed within 2 years
  • Wrongful death: 2 years from the date of death

Missing these deadlines can permanently bar you from seeking compensation, which is why consulting with a Portland personal injury attorney promptly after an accident is essential.

Comparative Negligence Rules

Maine follows the “modified comparative negligence” doctrine with a 50% bar rule. Under this system:

  1. The court determines each party’s percentage of fault in causing the accident
  2. A plaintiff’s compensation is reduced by their percentage of fault
  3. If the plaintiff is found to be 50% or more at fault, they cannot recover any damages

For example, if you’re awarded $100,000 in damages but found to be 30% responsible for your injuries, your compensation would be reduced to $70,000. However, if you’re determined to be 50% or more at fault, you’ll receive nothing.

This rule makes it critical to have skilled legal representation that can effectively argue for minimizing your share of responsibility in the accident, maximizing your potential compensation.

When to Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer in Portland

Knowing when to seek legal help after an injury can significantly impact your case outcome. Here are critical situations that indicate it’s time to consult with a Portland personal injury attorney.

Signs You Need Legal Representation

  1. Serious injuries require immediate legal assistance. Severe injuries often result in substantial medical expenses, extended time away from work, and long-term financial strain. A personal injury lawyer can help you pursue compensation that accurately reflects these significant costs and losses.
  2. Denied or low-balled insurance claims are clear indicators you need professional legal help. Insurance companies frequently offer settlements far below what victims deserve or deny valid claims outright. An experienced Portland attorney can challenge these decisions and negotiate for fair compensation.
  3. Multiple parties involved in your accident create complex liability issues. When responsibility is shared among several individuals or entities, a skilled lawyer can investigate thoroughly and ensure all liable parties are held accountable.
  4. Disputed liability situations demand legal expertise. If the other party denies responsibility for your injuries, your attorney can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a compelling case to establish fault.
  5. Permanent disability or long-term impairment resulting from your accident requires specialized legal knowledge. These cases involve calculating future medical needs and lifetime earning potential losses, which experienced Portland injury lawyers are equipped to handle.

Time-Sensitive Considerations

  1. Statute of limitations in Maine gives you limited time to file personal injury claims. Most cases must be filed within six years, but medical malpractice and certain other claims have shorter deadlines, making prompt legal consultation crucial.
  2. Evidence preservation becomes more challenging with each passing day. Physical evidence can disappear, witnesses’ memories fade, and documentation becomes harder to obtain as time passes, potentially weakening your case.
  3. Insurance company tactics often include pressuring injured parties to accept quick settlements before they understand the full extent of their injuries. Early legal representation prevents you from being taken advantage of during vulnerable moments.
  4. Medical documentation is most effective when collected immediately after an injury. A personal injury lawyer can guide you on properly documenting your injuries, treatments, and recovery process to strengthen your claim.
  5. Witness statements are most reliable when collected promptly. Your attorney can locate and interview witnesses while events remain fresh in their minds, securing valuable testimony for your case.

Types of Personal Injury Cases Handled by Portland Attorneys

Portland’s personal injury attorneys handle a diverse range of cases, helping victims seek compensation for injuries caused by others’ negligence. Here are the most common types of cases these legal professionals manage:

Car and Truck Accidents

Car and truck accidents represent the most frequent personal injury cases in Portland, Maine. These incidents typically result from distracted driving, speeding, reckless behavior, or other forms of negligence on the road. Portland attorneys help victims recover substantial compensation for injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage related to these accidents. Truck accidents involve additional complexity as they may include multiple liable parties such as the truck driver, trucking company, and equipment manufacturers—factors that experienced Portland lawyers are well-equipped to navigate due to the often severe injuries resulting from commercial vehicle collisions.

Slip and Fall Incidents

Slip and fall accidents constitute another common category of personal injury cases handled by Portland attorneys. These incidents occur when individuals slip or trip on someone else’s property due to hazardous conditions including wet floors, uneven walking surfaces, or inadequate lighting. Portland lawyers specialize in premises liability laws that hold property owners accountable for maintaining safe environments for visitors and guests. They work diligently to establish negligence by demonstrating that property owners knew or should have known about dangerous conditions yet failed to address them properly, resulting in their clients’ injuries.

Medical Malpractice

Medical malpractice cases involve healthcare providers who fail to deliver care meeting accepted professional standards. Portland’s personal injury attorneys handle these complex cases involving surgical errors, misdiagnosis, medication mistakes, birth injuries, and negligent care resulting in patient harm. These specialized lawyers work with medical experts to establish the standard of care, demonstrate how it was breached, and connect this negligence directly to the client’s injuries. With Maine’s specific medical malpractice laws and statutes of limitations, having knowledgeable representation is crucial for victims seeking compensation for additional medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.

Workplace Injuries

Workplace injury cases require Portland attorneys with expertise in both workers’ compensation and personal injury law. These cases involve accidents occurring in construction sites, manufacturing facilities, offices, and other workplaces resulting in serious injuries like falls from heights, equipment malfunctions, repetitive stress injuries, or exposure to harmful substances. While workers’ compensation typically covers medical expenses and partial wage replacement, Portland lawyers often identify third-party liability claims that allow injured workers to pursue additional compensation beyond the workers’ compensation system. This comprehensive approach helps maximize recovery for clients dealing with life-altering workplace accidents and their long-term consequences.

How to Choose the Right Personal Injury Lawyer in Portland

Selecting the right personal injury attorney in Portland, Maine can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here’s what to look for when making this crucial decision:

Experience and Specialization

Finding a lawyer with extensive experience in personal injury law is essential for your case’s success. The Goldberg & Loren Law Firm has been a leader in personal injury law since 1994, recovering over half a billion dollars for their clients. Look for attorneys who specialize specifically in your type of injury case, whether it’s car accidents, slip and falls, wrongful death, or medical malpractice. Firms like the Romanow Law Group demonstrate their dedication to personal injury law through their commitment to aggressively fighting for clients throughout Portland and Maine. Specialization matters because personal injury law contains many nuances that only experienced practitioners fully understand.

Track Record of Settlements and Verdicts

Examine potential attorneys’ history of successful settlements and verdicts before making your decision. Request specific examples of cases similar to yours and the compensation they secured. A proven track record indicates the lawyer knows how to properly value claims, negotiate effectively with insurance companies, and prepare cases for trial when necessary. Many reputable Portland personal injury firms publish their notable case results on their websites, giving you insight into their capabilities. Remember that past results don’t guarantee future outcomes, but they do demonstrate a lawyer’s ability to deliver positive results for clients with similar injuries.

Client Reviews and Testimonials

Client feedback provides valuable insight into how a personal injury lawyer treats their clients and handles cases. Read reviews on independent platforms like Google, Yelp, and legal directories such as Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell. Pay attention to comments about communication style, accessibility, and whether clients felt their cases received proper attention. Personal recommendations from friends or family members who’ve worked with personal injury lawyers in Portland can be particularly valuable. During initial consultations, ask attorneys if they can provide references from former clients with cases similar to yours. The way a firm’s staff treats you during your first interaction often reflects how you’ll be treated throughout your case.

The Personal Injury Claim Process in Portland

Initial Consultation

The personal injury claim process in Portland typically begins with a free initial consultation with an attorney. During this crucial first meeting, you’ll discuss the details of your accident and injuries with a qualified lawyer who will evaluate the merits of your case. The attorney will carefully explain your legal rights, outline potential options for moving forward, and provide professional advice on the best course of action based on Maine’s personal injury laws. This no-obligation meeting helps determine if you have a viable claim worth pursuing.

Investigation and Documentation

Following your decision to proceed with a claim, your Portland attorney launches a thorough investigation into your accident. This investigative phase involves collecting vital evidence such as eyewitness statements, detailed medical records, photographs of the accident scene, police reports, and any other relevant documentation. The primary objective is to establish three key elements: that the other party owed you a duty of care, they breached that duty through negligence, and this breach directly caused your injuries and resulting damages. A comprehensive investigation forms the foundation of a strong personal injury case.

Negotiation and Settlement

After gathering sufficient evidence, your attorney will prepare and submit a demand letter to the responsible party’s insurance company. This document outlines your injuries, damages, and the compensation you’re seeking. Your lawyer will engage in strategic negotiations with insurance adjusters, advocating for a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Portland personal injury attorneys leverage their knowledge of similar local cases and insurance company tactics to secure optimal settlement offers without the need for litigation.

Litigation When Necessary

If settlement negotiations fail to produce a fair offer, your attorney will file a lawsuit and prepare your case for trial. This process involves formal discovery procedures, depositions, expert witness testimonies, and court filings in accordance with Maine’s civil procedure rules. While most personal injury cases in Portland settle before reaching trial, having a skilled litigator ready to present your case before a judge or jury provides leverage during negotiations. Portland attorneys experienced in courtroom advocacy ensure your rights remain protected throughout this complex legal process.

Typical Compensation in Portland Personal Injury Cases

Understanding the types of compensation available in personal injury cases is essential when pursuing a claim in Portland, Maine. Here’s what victims can typically recover:

Medical Expenses

Medical expense compensation forms the foundation of most personal injury claims in Portland. This category covers all healthcare costs directly related to your injury, including hospital bills, doctor visits, surgical procedures, and prescription medications. Portland personal injury attorneys frequently work with medical experts to accurately calculate both current and future medical expenses, ensuring your settlement accounts for ongoing physical therapy, rehabilitation services, and any long-term care requirements. These calculations are critical for injuries requiring extended treatment periods, as they guarantee your compensation addresses the full scope of your medical needs.

Lost Wages and Earning Capacity

When injuries prevent you from working, Portland personal injury lawyers can help recover compensation for lost income. This includes not only wages already lost during your recovery period but also future earnings you may be unable to generate due to permanent limitations. In severe cases where injuries result in disability or career changes, compensation may account for the long-term impact on your earning capacity throughout your expected work life. Portland attorneys typically document these losses through employment records, expert testimony, and economic analysis to establish the full financial impact of your injury.

Pain and Suffering

Beyond economic damages, Portland personal injury victims can receive compensation for pain and suffering—the physical discomfort and emotional distress resulting from an injury. This non-economic damage acknowledges the everyday challenges faced following an accident, including chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and diminished quality of life. Portland attorneys use various methods to calculate these damages, often based on the severity of injuries, duration of recovery, and impact on daily activities. While Maine doesn’t cap pain and suffering compensation in most personal injury cases, the amount awarded typically correlates with the seriousness of the injury and its effect on your overall wellbeing.

Cost of Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer in Portland

Contingency Fee Arrangements

Personal injury lawyers in Portland, Maine typically operate on a contingency fee basis, making legal representation accessible to injury victims regardless of their financial situation. This arrangement means clients pay nothing upfront and only pay legal fees if their case results in a successful recovery. The standard contingency fee percentage ranges from 30% to 40% of the final settlement or court award. For example, if your case settles for $100,000, your attorney would receive $33,000 if charging a 33% fee. These percentages may increase if your case proceeds to trial, often rising to 40% due to the additional time, expertise, and resources required for court proceedings. This payment structure aligns the attorney’s interests with yours, as they only get paid when you do.

Additional Case Expenses

Beyond the contingency fee, certain case-related expenses may apply during your personal injury claim process. These expenses typically include:

  • Medical record retrieval fees
  • Court filing costs
  • Expert witness fees
  • Deposition expenses
  • Accident reconstruction services
  • Investigation costs

Most Portland personal injury firms advance these expenses for clients and recover them from the final settlement. This arrangement eliminates financial barriers that might prevent injured victims from pursuing justice. Before signing a representation agreement, reputable attorneys will clearly explain how these expenses are handled, including whether they’re deducted before or after the contingency fee is calculated. Understanding the complete fee structure ensures there are no surprises when your case resolves and helps maintain trust throughout the legal process.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Working With a Portland Injury Attorney

Hiring an Inexperienced or General Practice Lawyer

Working with a lawyer who lacks specialized personal injury experience can significantly harm your case outcomes. Personal injury law requires specific expertise that general practitioners simply don’t possess. We’ve seen many clients come to us after initially working with non-specialized attorneys who missed crucial case elements or failed to properly value their claims. When selecting representation in Portland, always verify that your attorney focuses primarily on personal injury cases and has handled situations similar to yours. Specialized attorneys understand the nuances of Maine’s personal injury laws and can navigate complex legal challenges more effectively.

Hiring a Lawyer Who Doesn’t Go to Court

Selecting an attorney who avoids trial can cost you thousands in potential compensation. Insurance companies carefully track which lawyers consistently settle cases without litigation and typically offer these attorneys’ clients lower settlements. We recommend choosing a Portland injury lawyer with courtroom experience who isn’t afraid to take your case before a judge when necessary. Attorneys familiar with Portland courthouses and who maintain a reputation for trial readiness often secure better settlements even without going to court, as insurance companies know these lawyers won’t accept unfair offers.

Paying an Attorney Upfront

Paying legal fees before your case resolves is unnecessary and potentially risky for personal injury cases. Most reputable Portland injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless they successfully recover money for you. This arrangement aligns your attorney’s interests with yours and eliminates financial barriers to quality legal representation. If a lawyer requests payment before taking your case, consider this a potential red flag. The contingency model ensures your attorney is motivated to maximize your recovery rather than simply billing hours.

How Local Portland Knowledge Benefits Your Personal Injury Case

When you’re facing the aftermath of an injury in Portland ME timing and local expertise matter. Our network of dedicated personal injury attorneys combines deep legal knowledge with an intimate understanding of Maine’s unique legal landscape.

These lawyers don’t just know the law they know Portland’s courts insurance companies and medical facilities. This local insight proves invaluable when building your case navigating settlement negotiations or preparing for trial.

Remember that choosing the right personal injury lawyer in Portland can make all the difference in your recovery journey. With contingency-based payment structures experienced legal guidance and specialized knowledge of Maine’s personal injury laws our recommended attorneys stand ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Portland, Maine?

In Maine, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is six years from the date of injury. However, medical malpractice claims must be filed within three years, and wrongful death claims typically within two years. Missing these deadlines can permanently bar your right to compensation, so consulting with an attorney promptly is crucial to protect your legal rights.

What types of compensation can I recover in a personal injury case?

You can typically recover three main types of compensation: medical expenses (past and future treatment costs), lost wages and earning capacity (income lost during recovery and reduced future earnings), and pain and suffering (physical discomfort and emotional distress). In some cases, you may also be eligible for punitive damages if the defendant’s conduct was particularly egregious.

How much does it cost to hire a personal injury lawyer in Portland?

Most Portland personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. Lawyers typically charge 30-40% of your final settlement or court award. You only pay if you win your case. Additional case expenses like medical record retrieval fees and court filing costs are usually advanced by the firm and recovered from your settlement.

How does Maine’s comparative negligence rule affect my case?

Maine follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault in the accident. If you’re found to be 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover damages. For example, if you’re awarded $100,000 but found 30% responsible, you’ll receive $70,000. This makes having skilled legal representation essential to minimize your assigned fault.

When should I hire a personal injury lawyer after an accident?

You should consult an attorney promptly if you’ve suffered serious injuries, received a denied or low insurance offer, face disputed liability, have multiple parties involved in your accident, or are dealing with permanent disabilities. Early legal intervention helps preserve evidence, meet filing deadlines, counter insurance company tactics, and properly document your injuries and damages.

What should I look for when choosing a personal injury lawyer in Portland?

Look for an attorney with specialized experience in personal injury law, a proven track record of successful settlements and verdicts, and positive client reviews. The lawyer should have specific experience with your type of case (car accident, medical malpractice, etc.), be willing to go to trial if necessary, and work on a contingency fee basis. Personal rapport and communication style are also important factors.

What happens during the initial consultation with a personal injury attorney?

During the free initial consultation, the attorney will evaluate your case’s merits, explain your legal rights and options, and outline the potential compensation you might recover. You’ll discuss the accident details, your injuries, and treatment. The lawyer will also explain their fee structure and answer your questions. This meeting helps both parties determine if they’re a good fit for working together.

How long does a personal injury case typically take in Portland?

Personal injury cases can take anywhere from several months to several years to resolve, depending on complexity. Straightforward cases might settle in 6-12 months, while complex cases involving severe injuries or disputed liability can take 1-3 years, especially if they go to trial. Your attorney should provide a realistic timeline based on your specific circumstances.

What mistakes should I avoid when working with a personal injury lawyer?

Avoid hiring inexperienced or general practice lawyers who lack specialized personal injury knowledge. Don’t choose attorneys unwilling to go to court, as this can lead to lower settlements. Be wary of lawyers who don’t work on contingency fees or who guarantee specific outcomes. Also, don’t withhold information from your attorney, as complete honesty is crucial for effective representation.

Will my personal injury case go to trial?

Most personal injury cases (approximately 95%) settle before trial. However, having an attorney prepared to go to trial often results in better settlement offers. Insurance companies tend to offer higher settlements when they know your lawyer has courtroom experience and is willing to litigate. Your attorney will recommend whether to settle or proceed to trial based on the specific circumstances of your case.