Aggressive criminal defense representation throughout the Willamette Valley. When your freedom is on the line, you deserve an attorney who knows how to win.
Attorney Robert Southwell, a nationally recognized criminal defense lawyer, has successfully litigated countless cases, helping thousands reclaim their freedom.
Southwell Law, LLC is a criminal defense firm based in Salem, Oregon, serving clients throughout the Willamette Valley. Attorney Robert Southwell is a former prosecutor and Wake Forest School of Law graduate.
Before law school, Robert worked at a Fortune 500 company in operations and accounting — then volunteered at Legal Aid of Milwaukee and the Workers’ Rights Center, which led him to pursue a career in criminal advocacy.
At Wake Forest, his AAJ Trial Team won the State Competition both years he competed — the first time in nearly a decade. After graduation, he prosecuted cases in Milwaukee and Marathon Counties, Wisconsin, before returning to Oregon to found Southwell Law in Salem.
Education
Wake Forest University School of Law
Juris Doctor (J.D.)
Winston-Salem, NC · Graduated 2016
Cardinal Stritch University
Bachelor of Business Administration — International Business
Milwaukee, WI
Bar
Admissions
Oregon State Bar
Admitted April 30, 2018
Bar #180920
Active
Wisconsin State Bar
Admitted post-graduation · Former Prosecutor
Inactive
Prosecutorial
Experience
1
Assistant District Attorney
Milwaukee County District Attorney's Office — Milwaukee, WI
Post-Graduation · Wisconsin
Prosecuted a wide variety of criminal cases with a primary focus on domestic violence and DUI matters. Gained extensive courtroom experience from investigation through trial.
2
Assistant District Attorney
Marathon County District Attorney's Office — Wausau, WI
Wisconsin
Continued prosecutorial work handling criminal matters across a range of charge types including traffic crimes and violent offenses.
3
Legal Intern
Clackamas County District Attorney's Office — Oregon City, OR
Upon Return to Oregon
Assisted prosecutors in Clackamas County, strengthening familiarity with Oregon criminal law and procedure ahead of founding Southwell Law in Salem.
Professional
Memberships
Marion County Association of Defenders
Oregon Criminal Defense Lawyers Association (OCDLA)
Oregon State Bar — Solo & Small Firm Section
Criminal Law Section — American Bar Association
AWARDS
AAJ State Trial Competition Champion
Wake Forest University School of Law
Won the State Competition both years as a member of Wake Forest’s American Association for Justice Trial Team — the first back-to-back wins in nearly a decade.
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Your Freedom Depends On It
Your freedom isn’t something to leave to chance. I’ve spent over two decades mastering Oregon’s criminal justice system, fighting and winning cases just like yours. From misdemeanors to complex felonies, my aggressive defense strategy and unwavering dedication have helped thousands maintain their freedom.
When your liberty is at stake, you need a defender who won’t back down—someone who knows how to navigate the system and protect your rights with absolute determination.
Attorney Robert Southwell will fight tirelessly to achieve the best result possible in your case.