Michael Colbach, a prominent personal injury attorney based in Portland, Oregon, has earned a place on the prestigious 2025 Oregon Super Lawyers list. This achievement marks the fourteenth consecutive year he has received this recognition, solidifying his reputation as one of the top personal injury lawyers within the state.
Colbach, who operates Michael A. Colbach Attorney at Law PC, has consistently secured significant settlements across various case types. Among his notable victories is a remarkable $4.1 million jury verdict for an injured cyclist against the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) in Marion County. This case, identified as No. 21CV47580, became particularly compelling when ODOT did not offer to cover the injured client's medical expenses before trial.
With 30 years of courtroom experience, Colbach has tried over 140 jury trials and has been practicing personal injury law for nearly 23 years. Known for his tenacity as well as his commitment to his clients, he states, "Spending a few thousand dollars on a good expert witness can make the difference between getting thousands of dollars or getting nothing for your personal injury claim." This highlights how he approaches each case with the necessary resources to pursue maximized outcomes for his clients.
Understanding the financial burdens associated with litigation, Colbach also forwards litigation costs upfront for each case he takes. "Before you hire a lawyer, make sure they are willing to forward the money to adequately pursue your personal injury case. Otherwise, you may be forced to settle for less than what you deserve," he advises potential clients. This not only alleviates the burden on clients but also reflects Colbach's commitment to achieving just outcomes, no matter the financial challenge.
Colbach emphasizes the importance of finding the right attorney for personal injury cases, stating, "When searching for legal representation, pay close attention to the history of trial verdicts and settlements of potential lawyers." He advocates for clients to review past case results, client testimonials, and to assess the number of cases litigators have seen through to trial. Colbach reminds clients to avoid attorneys who may promise swift settlements, as these lawyers may not possess the trial experience necessary to advocate effectively for substantial compensation.
The list of recognized attorneys does not end with Colbach's achievements. The 2025 Lawdragon 500 Leading Plaintiff Consumer Lawyers include several other esteemed professionals, such as Julie Braman Kane from Colson Hicks, John Fiske of Baron & Budd, and Michael Rosenberg from Seeger Weiss. This honor celebrates lawyers who demonstrate exceptional prowess and commitment to their clients, serving as champions during some of the most challenging periods of their lives.
Described as advocates for those facing adversity, these lawyers often take on cases involving medical malpractice, wrongful death, and personal injury, among others. The process for selecting members of the Lawdragon 500 is rigorous, combining journalistic research, community feedback, and increasing submissions from their fellow peers.
One of the most significant aspects of this year's honorees is the reminder of the vast need for competent legal support for individuals who encounter injustices within the civil justice system. The process of finding the right attorney is not always straightforward, especially as many Americans struggle to identify qualified representation when faced with serious issues such as health complications or accidents.
Colbach and his fellow honorees exemplify the resolve and dedication necessary to navigate these complex cases. Their experiences contribute to meaningful successes for many clients seeking justice. The comprehensive nature of the Lawdragon 500 list encourages individuals to seek out attorneys who specialize in various areas of law and who truly care about the people they help.
Legal professionals on this list are recognized not merely for their success, but also for their unwavering commitment to their clients, demonstrating the positive impact attorneys can have when they fuse expertise with genuine concern for individual welfare. Shaping lives through advocacy, these top-tier lawyers set out to change narratives and secure deserved compensation for those who suffer from preventable incidents.
For residents of Portland and beyond, Michael Colbach remains committed to legal excellence at his firm. His achievements paint him not only as a formidable advocate within the courtroom but also as a steadfast ally for clients who find themselves needing effective legal representation. Those seeking personal injury support can review Colbach's track record of successful case outcomes to understand why he has earned this esteemed recognition year after year.
His focus on trial work, customer care, and financial foresight ensures clients receive the attention and results they deserve, making strides toward positive outcomes against formidable opponents within the legal system.