MEET ROBERT SOUTHWELL

Best Criminal Defense Attorney Portland, Oregon

Free Consultation | One-Time Flat Fee | Real-Time Case Updates

Protecting your rights, securing your future—expert legal support when you need it most.

Call Icon

OR CALL US 24/7 AT

(971) 336-7537

10+

YEARS OF

EXPERIENCE

84%

CASE SUCCESS RATE*

500+

SATISFIED
CLIENTS

5 STAR

RATING ON GOOGLE

* Cases that were: dismissed, acquitted at trial, beat highest charge, or client was satisfied with outcome.

lawyer shaking hands with client

Your Criminal Defense Lawyer In Portland

If you are facing criminal charges, you need the best criminal defense attorney in Portland. I act quickly to protect your record, your rights, and your future. At Southwell Law, I provide focused criminal defense in Portland, building strategic cases designed to control outcomes early.

Criminal Defense in Portland Backed by Local Court Experience

Criminal cases in Portland are primarily handled at the Multnomah County Circuit Court in downtown Portland, part of the Oregon Judicial Department. Some cases may involve municipal courts or escalate depending on the charge, but most criminal matters move through this system.

As a seasoned criminal defense attorney in Portland, I understand how cases are charged, processed, and resolved locally. With nearly a decade of experience as a prosecutor before entering private practice, I bring insight into how the other side builds cases, and how to challenge them effectively. That advantage matters when navigating the Oregon criminal justice system.

Criminal Man With Handcuffs Being Interviewed In Interrogation Room After
Middle-aged Defendant Or Witness Counseled By The Lawyer To Sign

Charges I Defend in Multnomah County

I represent clients facing a wide range of criminal charges in Portland, from misdemeanors to major felonies.

Portland’s enforcement patterns, urban density, and policing priorities create specific legal challenges. Every case is approached with a strategy designed to reduce exposure and push for the best possible outcome.

Strategic, Aggressive Defense from Day One

You do not get a passive approach. You get a defense strategy built around your case. 

expungement lawyer with client
Posted on Google Google
Lena Martinez profile picture
Lena Martinez
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Mr Robert Southwell was very professional and very caring about my needs. I would highly recommend him.
Posted on Google Google
Shawn Kanan profile picture
Shawn Kanan
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Robert represented me well. It took over a year to settle everything, but he found some middle ground with the state that saved me another 10 years of problems. I highly recommend him.

Owner's reply
Thank you Shawn! Best of luck to your family
Posted on Google Google
AJ Val profile picture
AJ Val
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Robert Southwell will get it done ✔️ he is the gold standard for criminal defense. He helped me navigate through a very tough time in my life, he is professional and experienced. My expectations were exceeded and Im able to breathe a much needed sigh of relief.

Owner's reply
Thank you AJ
Posted on Google Google
Sylvia Lydon profile picture
Sylvia Lydon
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I was listened to, heard and felt that the information I was giving him was processed to the best our attorney could understand. His advise was valuable and the case closed. What more could you want of an attorney? He also gave me a refund because he did not spend hours in dealing with the issue. Need I say more? Highly recommend him.

Owner's reply
Thank you Sylvia!
Posted on Google Google
Omar Dakhil profile picture
Omar Dakhil
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I am incredibly grateful to Southwell Law Group for their help with a charge that was over 14 years old. For years, this unresolved matter affected my life, and I didn’t know where to turn. Southwell Law Group stepped in, took my situation seriously, and handled everything with professionalism, urgency, and care. They were knowledgeable, thorough, and clear in explaining my options and the legal process. Most importantly, they treated me with respect and never made me feel judged for something from my past. Their experience and attention to detail made a real difference, and they helped me finally move forward. If you are dealing with an old case or a situation you think can’t be fixed, I highly recommend Southwell Law Group. They gave me peace of mind and real results when I needed it most.

Owner's reply
Thank you Omar!
Posted on Google Google
Abril Martinez profile picture
Abril Martinez
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Mr southwell handled my case. At first I thought the worst not anything he had done but because of my faith in the justice system because of my crimanal past I had over 20 yrs ago. Mr. Southwell explained what he was doing but I still would have no faith. Untill now he completely has restored my faith. He didn't make me pled guilty or agree to any plead bargen. For 11 months he worked my case and to my surprise he had my case closed all charges were dropped. I am so thankful for Mr southwell if it was for his hard work I would be in prison. I would recommend Mr southwell to any one and everyone and once again from bottom of my heart THANK YOU MR. SOUTHWELL...

Owner's reply
Thank you April. Glad we got a dismissal
Posted on Google Google
Pat Rogers profile picture
Pat Rogers
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Best you can get truly a caring a good dude will get the best results possible

Owner's reply
Thank you!
Posted on Google Google
Josh Howard profile picture
Josh Howard
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I give Southwell law 5 stars because I've had my share of attorneys in my time and this is the first time ever that an attorney has ever really done any work for me and generally had my best interest at heart . Southwell law is not lazy and will do their best to come to a solution for your best interest. They do not work for the DA and they really know what they are doing. If there were 10 stars id give them 10. Thanks Southwell law.

Owner's reply
Thank you Josh. Best of luck to you! Glad we were able to resolve your case for $100 fine.

Speak With One of Willamette Valley’s Most Skilled Criminal Defense Attorneys Today

Don’t face this challenging time alone. As a seasoned criminal defense lawyer in Portland, I’m ready to protect your rights and fight for your future. Get a free consultation with a top criminal defense attorney that Portland Oregon residents rely on.

One flat fee. No surprises. Real-time case updates.

528 Cottage Street NE

Suite 204B

Salem, OR, 97301

Map & Directions

Call us 24/7 to schedule your free consultation within 24 hours. Prefer messaging? Simply request a consultation through our chat feature.

Fill out your information below and I’ll get back to you within 24 hours

Contact Form

"*" indicates required fields

ABOUT SOUTHWELL LAW

Attorney Robert Southwell provides expert criminal defense in Portland and throughout the entire Oregon. Whether you’re facing felony charges, DUI, or other criminal matters, we are here to protect your rights and fight for your freedom.

robert southwell criminal defense lawyer

Success Stories

Real results. Real clients. Proven defense strategies.

Attorney Robert Southwell will fight tirelessly to achieve the best result possible in your case.

FAQ

Can charges be reduced before my first court appearance in Portland?

Yes. Early intervention can sometimes influence how charges are filed or negotiated. Acting quickly gives your attorney a chance to engage before the case fully progresses.

Do I need a criminal defense attorney for misdemeanor charges or only for major felonies?

You should consult with a Portland criminal defense attorney for any criminal charge, not just major felonies. Even misdemeanor convictions can significantly impact your civil rights, employment opportunities, and personal life. Having skilled legal representation from the beginning ensures your rights are protected regardless of the severity of charges.

How do Portland criminal defense lawyers approach assault cases?

When handling assault cases, I examine all evidence, interview witnesses, review police procedures, and identify potential self-defense claims. I develop customized defense strategies based on the specific circumstances, challenging the prosecution’s case while working to achieve the best outcome possible for clients accused of assault charges.

What happens if I'm not satisfied with the outcome of my case? Can I appeal?

If you’re not satisfied with the outcome of your criminal case, you may have grounds for appeals. As part of my comprehensive legal representation, I can evaluate your case for potential appellate issues and guide you through the appeals process in Oregon courts. Appeals must typically be filed within strict timeframes, so it’s important to discuss this option promptly.

Will I have to go to jail for a first-time offense in Portland?

Not always. Many first-time offenses in Multnomah County can result in reduced penalties, diversion programs, or alternative sentencing. Working with the best criminal defense attorney in Portland can help position your case to avoid jail where possible.

What should I do immediately after being charged with a crime in Portland?

Do not speak to police without legal counsel. Contact a criminal defense lawyer right away to protect your rights and begin building your defense before critical decisions are made.

Call Email