Oregon Laws

This page summarizes ten Oregon laws people ask about most, with a link to the full guide for each. Every guide cites the state statute or an official source. Laws change, so check the current statute or talk to a local attorney before you act.

Oregon Personal Injury Statute of Limitations

In Oregon, you generally have 2 years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit (Or. Rev. Stat. § 12.110). If you miss the deadline, the court will usually dismiss the case. Different deadlines can apply to medical malpractice, wrongful death and claims against government agencies.

Read the full personal injury statute of limitations guide →

Oregon Comparative Negligence Laws

Oregon follows modified comparative negligence (51% bar). You can recover if your share of fault is 50% or less, with your award reduced by your percentage of fault. At 51% or more you recover nothing.

Read the full comparative negligence laws guide →

Oregon Minimum Wage in 2026

The Oregon minimum wage is $15.55 (standard) per hour, above the federal $7.25. $16.80 in the Portland metro area and $14.55 in non-urban counties; adjusted every July 1. When state and federal rates differ, employees are entitled to the higher rate.

Read the full minimum wage guide →

Oregon Final Paycheck Laws

In Oregon, an employer must pay final wages to a fired employee: by the end of the first business day after termination. If you quit, final pay is due: immediately if 48 hours' notice was given (excluding weekends and holidays); otherwise within 5 business days or the next payday, whichever is first. If wages are late or missing, you can file a wage claim with the state labor department or go to court.

Read the full final paycheck laws guide →

Oregon Small Claims Court Limits

In Oregon, you can sue for up to $10,000 in small claims court, which is handled by the circuit court or justice court (small claims department). Claims of $750 or less generally must be filed in small claims. Small claims cases are faster and cheaper than regular lawsuits, and most people represent themselves. If your claim is larger, you must file in a higher court or give up the excess.

Read the full small claims court limits guide →

Oregon Security Deposit Laws

Oregon security deposit limit: no statutory limit. The landlord must return the deposit, minus lawful deductions, within this deadline: 31 days. Landlords cannot deduct for normal wear and tear, and tenants can usually sue in small claims court if a deposit is wrongly withheld.

Read the full security deposit laws guide →

Oregon Eviction Notice Requirements

If rent is unpaid in Oregon, the landlord must generally give a written notice before filing an eviction case: 10 days (given after rent is 8 days late) or 13 days (given after rent is 5 days late). Only a court can order an eviction; a landlord cannot change the locks, remove belongings or shut off utilities to force a tenant out.

Read the full eviction notice requirements guide →

Oregon Small Estate Affidavit

Oregon small estate limit: $75,000 in personal property and $200,000 in real property. Waiting period after death: 30 days. Real estate: yes, within the limit (filed with the court). A small estate process lets heirs collect property without a full probate case.

Read the full small estate affidavit guide →

Does Oregon Recognize Common Law Marriage?

No. Oregon does not recognize common law marriages formed in Oregon. Most states generally recognize a marriage that was valid where it was formed, so a common law marriage created in a state that allows it may still be recognized.

Read the full common law marriage guide →

Oregon Divorce Residency Requirements

To file for divorce in Oregon: no minimum if married in Oregon and a spouse still lives there; otherwise 6 months. Waiting period: none. You must still be able to show domicile, for example with a driver's license, voter registration or lease.

Read the full divorce residency requirements guide →

Find help near you in Oregon

Popular cities: Salem · Portland

This page summarizes state law for general information and is not legal advice. Laws change and courts interpret them; check the current statute or official source, or talk to a licensed attorney in your state about your situation.

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