#United States #Class Action #Portland #Washington County #Tax Foreclosure

Understanding the Washington County Property Tax Foreclosure Settlement

The ongoing class action lawsuit, Almorn Brackett v. Washington County, now implicated in the U.S. District Court for Oregon provides affected individuals with crucial information about potential financial compensation. This proposal stems from allegations against Washington County regarding the mishandling of surplus proceeds arising from tax-foreclosed properties.

Who is Affected?

If you have owned, inherited, or held any interest in property that was foreclosed and subsequently sold, donated, or retained by Washington County between October 12, 2017, and December 31, 2025, you are part of this settlement class. Such interests include ownership rights, mortgage interests, and other liens. Heirs or successors of original owners are also included if the original owner is deceased.

What is the Settlement Offering?

The proposed settlement allows class members, after submitting a valid claim, to receive payments equating to the surplus funds from the foreclosed properties. Each claim cannot be valued until all submissions are reviewed and validated, but Washington County commits to paying 100% of surplus proceeds for sold properties and 80% for retained properties, along with any pertinent fees, interest, and administrative costs. This generous settlement fund totals around $1,500,000, covering all valid claims, administrative expenses, and attorneys' fees capped at 30%. Importantly, class members do not incur any costs to partake in this settlement. The deadline for claims submission is November 30, 2026, by 11:59 p.m. PT.

Your Rights and Options

As a class member, you have choices:
1. File a Claim: To receive a payment, you must complete and submit your claim. This can be done online or via a downloadable claim form at WashingtonForeclosureSettlement.com. Claims sent by U.S. mail must be postmarked by the deadline.
2. Do Nothing: Opting not to make a claim means you forego any payment but remain legally bound by the settlement’s outcomes, forgoing the right to sue for these claims.
3. Opt Out: Should you wish to withdraw from this settlement, you must do so by September 14, 2026.
4. Object: If there are concerns regarding the settlement, you may file an objection while still submitting a claim. Objections must also be filed by September 14, 2026.

Upcoming Fairness Hearing

A fairness hearing is set for September 17, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. PT, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon. This hearing will evaluate objections, review the settlement's fairness, and consider attorneys' fees. Although attendance is optional, it provides an opportunity for class members to voice their opinions.

Conclusion

This settlement represents a significant opportunity for individuals impacted by property tax foreclosures in Washington County. Those who meet the qualifications should carefully review the details provided and ensure they take timely action to secure their rightful claims. For further assistance, visit the settlement website or contact the representatives for support. This proactive step can potentially lead to compensation amidst the unfortunate proceedings of property foreclosure.