MEET ROBERT SOUTHWELL

Trusted Criminal Defense Attorney in Salem, 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.

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(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.

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Your Criminal Defense Attorney in Salem, Oregon

Having worked on both sides of the courtroom, I bring a strategic edge that few Salem criminal defense lawyers can offer. Whether you’ve been arrested, are under investigation, or already facing serious allegations, you need an attorney who understands the legal process from the inside out. As your criminal defense attorney in Salem, Oregon, I give every client personal attention and a defense strategy built around the specific facts of their case.

Real Results and Trusted Representation

The Former Prosecutor Advantage

Understanding how prosecutors build criminal cases gives me a critical edge in shaping your defense. As your criminal defense attorney in Salem, Oregon, I anticipate the State's strategy and position your case for the best outcome, whether that means dismissal, negotiation, or trial.

Responsive, Honest Communication

Many clients come to this law firm feeling overwhelmed after being arrested or accused. I make sure you're never left guessing. From filing motions to court appearances, I walk you through every step of the legal process so you can make confident, informed decisions.

Recognized Results in Marion County Courts

I've represented clients facing a broad range of criminal matters, from DUIs and misdemeanors to felonies and sex crimes across Marion County. I know the local courts, how the prosecution operates, and what it takes to get charges dismissed, reduced, or acquitted.

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

Committed Guidance Through Every Aspect of Your Case

Criminal charges impact your career, your family, your business, and your freedom. As your Salem criminal defense lawyer, I provide clear guidance and direct advocacy whether you’re concerned about jail time, a conviction, or protecting your record. 

Oregon criminal defense law continues to evolve. Ballot measures and legislative changes regularly reshape how certain crimes are charged, what sentencing looks like, and which clients may qualify for dismissal or expungement. I stay current on every development and apply that knowledge on your behalf.

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Lena Martinez profile picture
Lena Martinez
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Mr Robert Southwell was very professional and very caring about my needs. I would highly recommend him.
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Shawn Kanan profile picture
Shawn Kanan
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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
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AJ Val profile picture
AJ Val
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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
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Sylvia Lydon profile picture
Sylvia Lydon
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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!
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Omar Dakhil profile picture
Omar Dakhil
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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!
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Abril Martinez profile picture
Abril Martinez
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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
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Pat Rogers profile picture
Pat Rogers
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Best you can get truly a caring a good dude will get the best results possible

Owner's reply
Thank you!
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Josh Howard profile picture
Josh Howard
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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.

Work With a Criminal Defense Attorney Salem Oregon Trusts

When hiring a criminal defense attorney in Salem, Oregon, local knowledge and courtroom experience matter. Southwell Law handles cases across the full spectrum of criminal law, from first-time misdemeanors to serious felony allegations, on behalf of clients throughout Salem, Marion County, and the broader Willamette Valley, including Portland. Whether you were contacted by police last night or have been fighting allegations for months, I build your defense from day one.

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

528 Cottage Street NE

Suite 204B

Salem, OR, 97301

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ABOUT SOUTHWELL LAW

Attorney Robert Southwell provides expert criminal defense in Salem and throughout 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

What advantage does a former prosecutor bring to criminal defense?

A former prosecutor understands how the state builds its case, what evidence carries weight, and where the weaknesses are. That knowledge helps me challenge evidence, anticipate the prosecution’s moves, and pursue dismissal, reduced charges, or acquittal on your behalf.

What types of criminal matters does Southwell Law handle in Salem?

I handle a broad range of cases, including DUI, domestic violence crimes, sex crimes, felonies, and misdemeanors across Marion County and the Willamette Valley. If you’ve been arrested or accused of a crime in Salem, Oregon, contact me before speaking to anyone else.

How does Oregon's changing criminal law affect my case?

Ballot measures and legislative updates can directly impact sentencing guidelines, expungement eligibility, and how prosecutors pursue certain charges. As your Salem criminal defense lawyer, I monitor these changes closely to identify every legal avenue available to you.

What should I do immediately after being arrested in Salem?

Do not speak to police or authorities without counsel. Contact a criminal defense attorney in Salem, Oregon as soon as possible. Early involvement gives your defense attorney the best chance to protect your rights before the legal process moves against you.

Can charges be dismissed or reduced under Oregon criminal law?

Yes. Depending on the evidence and how you were arrested, many cases are dismissed or negotiated down to lesser charges. I review every aspect of your case, from how evidence was gathered to how authorities conducted themselves, to identify every available defense.

Do you handle civil litigation or bankruptcy cases?

No. I only offer criminal defense. I do not handle civil litigation, bankruptcy, or other non-criminal practice areas.

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