Meet Don Corson

“In my first career, I was active in consumer and environmental issues. I realized that I could change many of the injustices I saw if I became an attorney.”

 

 

Don Corson represents people seriously injured or killed by defective products, industrial accidents, serious vehicle and truck crashes, and other catastrophic incidents.

Don has the highest professional ratings for legal ability and ethics.  He has been recognized in Oregon as the Distinguished Trial Lawyer of the year.  Don is listed in The Best Lawyers in America in multiple categories for representing individuals, and is consistently listed as a Super Lawyer.

Education

Don completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology at the University of Oregon in 1976, where he was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. He went on to graduate first in his law school class from the University of Oregon in 1985 and was Editor-In-Chief of the Oregon Law Review.

Memberships & Honors

Don’s professional memberships include:

  • Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers
  • American Association for Justice (AAJ)
  • American Board of Trial Advocates
  • Former President, Oregon Trial Lawyers Association (OTLA)
  • 2020 Distinguished Trial Lawyer of the Year (OTLA) 
  • National Crime Victims Bar Association 
  • Oregon State Bar
  • Admitted to practice in all Oregon state and federal courts and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals
  • Former Chair of the Council on Court Procedures, Oregon’s rule-making body for laws relating to civil procedure
  • LexisNexis Martindale-Hubbell “AV Preeminent” (highest rating)
  • The Best Law Firms in America
  • 2003 – Present The Best Lawyers in America in the categories of:  Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs, Medical Malpractice Law – Plaintiffs, and Product Liability Litigation – Plaintiffs
  • Super Lawyers, 2006 – Present, currently in Top 50
  • 2021 John E. Jaqua Distinguished Alumni Award, University of Oregon Law School 

Don lives in Eugene with his wife and law partner Lara Johnson. They have two young adult children. Don enjoys outdoor activities and photography, and volunteers with the Friends of Buford Park & Mt. Pisgah.

Refer to the Cases That Bring Change page for more in-depth stories of real people Don has helped while also changing the law to improve the lives of others.

Client Testimonials

10.0Don Corson
Don CorsonReviewsout of 6 reviews
Best Personal injury lawyers in Eugene

After being involved in a car accident while at work, I was overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. Don Corson was an incredible help throughout the entire process. From our first conversation, he took the time to explain my options, answer my questions, and make sure I understood every step.

Don was professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely cared about my well-being. He handled the legal aspects of my case so I could focus on recovering, and he was always responsive whenever I needed guidance. His experience and dedication gave me confidence during a very stressful time.

I am extremely grateful for everything Don and his team did for me. If you’re looking for an attorney who is compassionate, trustworthy, and willing to go the extra mile for his clients, I highly recommend Don Corson and his law office.

Craig

We had an excellent experience with Corson and Johnson Law Firm. My husband and I had a complex situation with an automobile accident and could not have navigated this without the help of Don Corson and Stacy. Don’s experience, assertiveness and persistence paid off and the outcome was a substantial settlement. Don is great to work with and I recommend him 110%.

Cindy Wiser
Google

Don Corson and the team at the Corson & Johnson Law Firm worked tirelessly to support our family following a very difficult accident. His team fought for us every step of the way and the result was very successful. We highly recommend the Corson & Johnson Law Firm

Michael Zaretsky

The staff at Corson and Johnson Law Firm were AMAZING! They were so supportive and helped me and my family through a difficult time. I felt personally cared about and seen. They answered all my questions and guided me all the way through a challenging time.

Lillian Barwood

In late October 2017 I was injured in a collision while going to work. A garbage truck pulled out onto the highway from a driveway in Eugene, Oregon, giving me no time to avoid the crash, which totaled my Harley Davidson bike and myself. The truck driver claimed he never saw me.  I lost my left eye, every bone in my face and torso was broken including my neck, and my lungs were damaged. I was life-flighted to OHSU, where the doctors, nurses, and surgeons saved my life and through many surgeries pieced me back together. It was a massive collective of people that was crucial to my survival that day and the days ahead, from my coworkers, the medics on scene, the life flight medics, the doctors, nurses, and surgeons, my daughters, my lovely wife and the rest of my family who were and still are committed to me and my well-being. I truly thank them all for my life.

As a result of this event I incurred hundreds of thousands in medical bills. While in the hospital I was blamed for the entire situation. The police report was full of errors and was unrecognizable from what actually happened. Thankfully, my sister-in-law, who works for an attorney, recommended that we hire Don Corson of the Corson and Johnson law firm. Don and his team worked tirelessly to expose the truth. He believed in me from the start, investing heavily to investigate every made-up story and every lie that falsely accused me of being responsible for the crash. Don and his team righted every wrong and in the end the garbage company decided to settle and avoid a costly and embarrassing trial. Don and his team went beyond and above to make sure my family and I are taken care of and that we have a bright future ahead of us. I have come out of this process successfully thanks to Don and the great people he employs. Don Corson has gained my respect. I consider him a part of my family. Thank you Don for taking up my fight with me. You are truly an exceptional person, rare in this world we live in.

As of 2023 I will have 33 years riding Harley Davidson motorcycles, with hundreds of thousands of miles in the seat. “This is a way of life for me, this is no hobby, it’s who I am.”

– Vince

Vince
Google

I was hit by a car in a parking lot and ankle was broken in two places. Luckily My daughter and son in law convinced me that I would need a lawyer. I hesitated because I had never used a lawyer before. Thank goodness they insisted and called Don Corson. Don Corson and his team were so helpful, professional, encouraging and tirelessly had to work on my lengthy case. Don Corson doesn’t give up, and I was pleased with the results. I would not hesitate to recommend him and his team to anyone.

JH

A long overdue thank you. Thank you for your hard work and successful results in our case against Liberty Mutual Insurance who was defending their client that injured me in a automobile accident. It took years of dedication and hard work not only on your part but your entire staff that worked this case, I have never witnessed an organization that worked as hard as yours on a project and not knowing what the outcome would be until the end. Our company has been in business for 70 years. Part of our business plan is to hire professional people to receive professional results. Don – you and your staff have been the best example I can give of this business plan. Thanks from all of us at Knee Deep Cattle Company.

Mike Stevenson

They handled my moms case. Truly the most supportive, informative, caring legal team ever!!! It’s been almost a decade since they represented my mom, and I still talk about them frequently on the amount of care and work they put in. Don Corson is an amazing lawyer, I don’t think there could be anyone better. Thank you so much Corson & Johnson for taking such good care of my mom and always being in our corner ❤️

Brittney Logan
Google

Life is unexpected. Hopefully you never find yourself in a situation that requires legal assistance. Chances are though, if you’re reading this, then you, or someone you know might be seeking legal counsel. If you’ve been searching, stop here and call The Corson and Johnson Law Firm. I consider calling them after my auto accident one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. There’s a lot going on after an accident aside from dealing with the injury itself.

Don and the team were there every step of the way. They not only provided clarity on the process but also acted with empathy and understanding creating a system of support. Don and Beatrice explored all angles of my situation for the best possible outcome. They did an unbelievable job with communication and keeping me updated. Throughout, I always felt secure the case was being handled. This allowed me the necessary time to focus on my recovery. I have no doubt that these guys are the best at what they do. I consider Don, Beatrice, Stacy and Wendy to be like family and cannot express how strongly I recommend them.

Mike Freel

Two Grateful and Admiring Clients

Don Corson took care of everything after we had a head-on collision with a 3/4 ton pickup. Everyone driving near the junction of the McKenzie Hwy and Santiam Hwy in the Cascade mountains saw our crumpled sedan and were amazed that anyone was left alive.

In July 2009 I was one year into retirement but suddenly found myself in Bend, Oregon hospital for 5 days. My husband would be in and out of the ICU for the next two months before he was transported by ambulance to a Eugene care center for weeks of convalescence; it would be the most bleak Thanksgiving we ever experienced.

During that tragic half year of our lives Don and his team took care of everything: I never looked at a medical bill; I was never put on hold to listen to music; I didn’t have to beg with my insurance agent for a loaner car big enough to feel safe driving again; I didn’t talk to salvage dealers or insurance adjusters; and I did not have to negotiate the two individual settlements that held the other driver accountable for his negligence, he walked away from the accident unhurt.

When it comes to knowing the law and how to most effectively apply it for his client’s benefit, we think he nears genius.

During those tragic months of 2009 and the years that have followed, I have come to understand what an incredible human being Don is. He IS a great guy. His sensitivity and compassion as well as his generosity with his time is amazing. Even now, ten years later, he takes time for my calls and makes time to lunch with my husband.

Don’s professionalism and his personal interest in his clients was so evident to us in our time of tragedy and recovery; Don took care of everything.

Kitti Gale & Curtin Mitchell

For those of you who don’t want to read the whole review – Corson & Johnson is the best. Don’t bother looking up any other law firms. My husband and I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending the Corson & Johnson Law Firm to anyone needing legal counsel.

As a result of being hit by a car, I now have a debilitating brain injury, and life may never be the same.

We were referred to Don Corson by a trusted family friend. From our initial meeting, my husband and I were impressed at how sincere, kind and patient Don and his staff were.

Don Corson is genuine, caring, and brilliant. Our case was tricky at best, and he never faltered. Don’t let his super pleasant personality fool you. When needed, Don is a bulldog. He didn’t stop working tirelessly until we received our settlement, which will now provide the long term medical care that I need as well as the day to day care for our children and home that I can no longer do.

He and his staff encouraged us and walked us through every step of the way. They explained the process so that we could easily understand everything that was going on.

Although we mainly dealt with Don, Lara Johnson is excellent also. She is incredibly insightful and bright.

Don Corson and his staff make a positive difference in the world with the work they do. We truly value his help, friendship and counsel.

Katie Lekkerkerker

“From Canada, I had the unfortunate circumstance of being rear ended on the I-5 while touring Universities for my son. Not knowing anything about law in the USA my husband was trying to research lawyers in Oregon. We ended up contacting Don Corson and I knew from our first conversation that he had a genuine concern and compassion for my well being and that I was going to be in good hands. Through our case, Don was always there to answer any questions I had day or night, I never had to wait to hear back from him. Don was honest and forthcoming and kept us updated as our case progressed. I cannot thank Don and his team enough for all they did for me, he made me feel like family, and I would highly recommend him and his team, I was extremely fortunate to have him in my corner. ” Roxanne Howse from Okotoks, Alberta, Canada

Roxanne Howse

“Thank you so much to Don Corson and his team Stacey, and Wendy! I can’t say enough good things about the law firm and couldn’t hope for a better experience (other than not being hit by a truck!)I was injured in a car accident, discharged with a number of injuries, but then, I had no idea what to do! I didn’t even know to call a lawyer for days, I was so confused at the time. I had memory, speaking, vision, and balance problems as well as impaired decision-making. In addition, I didn’t know the first thing about my own injuries: if rehabilitation was available or effective, how I could pay for any of it, what the legal process was, and, my biggest fear, “would I ever be the same person again?”But from the moment that I spoke with Don and his team, I felt a massive weight lifted off of me and knew I that I was in good hands. They are professional, courteous, respectful, genuinely kind people, and they really cared. All of my questions were answered. Don was diligent about my case and kept me up to date regularly, but my injuries, my recovery, and my physical and emotional health (it takes a toll!) were always as important to Don as was financial compensation. Don is extremely knowledgeable about traumatic brain injury. He also knows what the permanent, and/or long-term effects may be. Such honesty, & empathy are vital for such a personal injury (especially one that other people cannot see.) Don and his team called to make sure I was doing well in-between visits. His expertise allowed me to get the care I needed for each and every problem and while I still have residual effects I’m still working on–the difference between then and now is night and day. Until now, I did not know that one’s choice of a lawyer could affect the quality of one’s life both today and in the future but that was the case! The Corson & Johns Law Firm helped me through a difficult, painful process with professionalism and great compassion and for that, I will be forever grateful.”

Colleen J.

Mr. Corson is extremely intelligent, well-versed in his area of expertise, down to earth and ethical. Mr. Corson and I practice in different areas of the law; however, I have referred clients to Mr. Corson when he needed his expertise. Mr. Corson has decades of experience in his area of expertise, and is recognized in the legal community for possessing a comprehensive understanding of his area of law. He is a consummate professional. His reputation in the community is outstanding. Anyone looking for an attorney for Personal Injury, Wrongful Death, Medical Malpractice, or Products Liability, could not do better than retaining Don Corson.

Hugh Duvall

“I never had a need for legal counsel before becoming the victim of a catastrophic accident. Through the recommendation of a friend, I met Don Corson and from the beginning of our relationship I found relief knowing that the circumstances of my situation would be represented with care and compassion. We first met in a hospital room where he listened to my story and prescribed a course of action that helped me navigate many unknowns. I relied on his insight and judgment, along with the professionalism of the entire Corson and Johnson staff. I’m comforted by all Don has done for me. I’ll always appreciate his friendship.”

Carl Davaz

The Corson and Johnson Law Firm is amazing, My entire time working with them felt like I was with family the whole time and they brought me in with open arms! I still talk to some of the staff. They work hard and fight for you whole heartedly! Let’s just say they do their job very well! My car accident was in 2010 and I was only 16 years old and without their help I definitely wouldn’t be where I am today, I couldn’t thank them enough for everything they did for me through the hardest time of my life. I definitely recommend Corson and Johnson Law Firm!

Stephanie McGarvey
Google

“Don Corson was kind and professional. He and the office team were all supportive and worked to make my experience as easy and painless as possible. I had zero legal knowledge and had no clue how things worked. Don help me navigate the complexities of the legal system and even went out of his way to help with a college project. Would highly recommend!”

Alex Har

“On August 10th, 2003, just four days after my 28th birthday, my life was permanently altered by a reckless and violent, drug-induced, drunk driver who crashed head-on and into my car. Everyone in the vehicle was injured, with my injuries being the most severe. I suffered a complete spinal cord injury, which changed everything in my life in an instant.

Nearly 17 years later, I remain paralyzed from the chest down, and on that day, I not only lost my ability to walk but my ability to do the field engineer work I once loved so much. In these unpredictable and devastating moments in life, it is essential to surround yourself with people you can trust. My physical rehabilitation was a long road, and as if that wasn’t hard enough, I also had to figure out how I was going to support myself financially.

As someone who worked in a physically demanding job, with a lot of international travel, I had no idea how to move forward with my life or what I would be capable of achieving in the future. I can honestly say, I feel so fortunate to have had the legal guidance of Don Carson. Don not only professionally represented me, but he was relentless in settling an agreement that would help assist me financially. He put his heart and soul into helping me achieve the best outcome and, in many ways, offered tremendous emotional support that went way beyond his call to a legal duty.

My reliance upon him, both professionally and emotionally, should not be understated. With his expertise, I was able to receive a financial settlement for my lifelong medical bills as well as a path forward to make a living and successfully support myself. Don is not only a brilliant lawyer; he is honest and trustworthy and committed to doing the best for his clients, even in the most challenging circumstances. With Don at the helm, you will not only have the most capable legal guidance but someone who cares about your overall well-being. I give him my highest recommendation.”

Janos Tivadar

“When our grandson was badly injured in an ATV accident, sustaining life-long injuries, we went in search of a skilled and ethical attorney to help achieve reasonable financial aid for our grandson’s future, which had been greatly altered. We were referred to Corson & Johnson Law Firm. We first met Don Corson when he came to our home to meet with us and to discover more about our situation. He immediately made us comfortable with his friendly but professional demeanor.

And I couldn’t have been more impressed with his depth of legal knowledge. But more than that, it was clear he cared about our grandson’s well-being. In the many months that followed it became obvious to us that we had the best attorney in the state of Oregon working alongside us. Don was always a professional, but he was more than just an attorney to us. He became a friend. As it turned out, Don Corson did a fabulous job and our grandson will be well taken care of throughout his life. Along with a sense of assurance about our grandson’s future well-being, we also have a life-long friend.

There are no sufficient words to thank Don Corson and his staff for all they did for us and our grandson. We have no hesitation in recommending his services to others. You won’t be sorry.”

Bonnie L.

“After my husband, Lee, was inadvertently overdosed during a routine heart surgery the hospital refused to take any responsibility for the injury they helped to cause. He went from being a strong, intelligent, totally independent man to being completely disabled. He suffered a global anoxic brain injury leaving him physically and mentally handicapped. The hospital said they felt bad for him and the family but his injury was not caused by the 18 times too much Amiodorone he was administered. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of the entire team at Corson & Johnson Law Firm a jury found the anesthesiologist that administered the drug, the group that employed him and the hospital to be responsible and awarded my husband a significant settlement. I wish I could put into words how much the caring and compassion of Don meant to our entire family. He took charge and walked us through the entire process. He was, and still is, a highly valued family friend!”

Connie L.

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Please keep in mind that we can only help a limited number of people at one time, and that we try to focus on serious cases where we think we might be able to make a meaningful difference in a person’s life.  Deciding on which cases to accept  typically involves  at least a preliminary investigation.

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