Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Portland, OR

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Portland, Oregon?

  (500) 823-3333 is the non-emergency contact number of the Portland Police Bureau.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Portland, Oregon?

  You can get a copy of your police report at the Portland Police Bureau's Public Records Unit (503) 823-0756. You may also contact the automated information line at (503) 823-0041 to get more information on how to request public records.

• What is the statute of limitations for crimes in Portland?

  According to Oregon's criminal law, the statute of limitations in Portland is generally three years for felonies, two years for misdemeanors, and six months for violations. However, there is no statute of limitations in Oregon for murder, aggravated murder, attempted murder or aggravated murder, and manslaughter.

• What are the most common crimes committed in Portland?

  The most common crimes committed in Portland are homicides, robberies, aggravated assaults, and sex crimes. According to data released by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, violent crimes in Portland have increased by 38% in 2021. The city also witnessed the highest single-year total in its history in the same year.

• Does Portland have Jessica's Law?

  Yes, Jessica's Law was signed in 2006 in the state of Oregon. This requires adults who committed first-degree sex offenses, such as rape, unlawful sexual penetration, and sodomy, to face a minimum of 25 years in prison, if the victim was under 12 years old at the time of the crime. Jessica's Law was named after Jessica Lunsford, who was a child victim in Florida.

• What should you do if you get arrested in Portland?

  If you got arrested in Portland, you should try to remain composed, don't provide false information to law enforcement officials, and don't stand in the way of their duties. You should also invoke your right to stay silent until you have consulted with a criminal defense attorney in Portland.

• What are the penalties for misdemeanors in Portland?

  The following are the penalties for misdemeanors in Portland: $6,250 fine and/or one year in prison for Class A misdemeanors, $2,500 fine and/or six months in prison for Class B misdemeanors, and $1,250 fine and/or thirty days in prison for Class C misdemeanors.

• What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

  Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circumstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.

• How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?

  Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

  Misdemeanors

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Vandalism
  • Reckless driving

  Felonies

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault
  • Specific types of fraud
  • Possession of certain types of drugs

• What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?

  The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circumstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.

• What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.

• Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.

• Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

  Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circumstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.