MEET ROBERT SOUTHWELL

Salem’s Trusted DUI Defense Attorney

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

Arrested for DUI? You need a relentless DUI defense attorney near you, in Salem – one who knows the law, the courts, and how to fight for your rights. At Southwell Law, we deliver powerful, personalized defense for those facing DUI charges in Salem and throughout Oregon.

SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION

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.

ABOUT

Attorney Robert Southwell, a nationally recognized criminal defense lawyer, has successfully litigated countless cases, helping thousands reclaim their freedom.

WHY SOUTHWELL LAW?

RESOURCES

Relentless Advocacy. Proven Outcomes.

A DUI accusation is a pivotal moment that can impact your freedom, career, and reputation for years to come. As a dedicated DUI criminal defense lawyer, I’ve earned my reputation by challenging tough cases and securing favorable results for clients who thought all hope was lost. When your future is on the line, you deserve a DUI defense attorney near you who will fight tirelessly to protect it.

FREE CONSULTATION

OR CALL US 24/7 AT

(971) 336-7537

What You Need to Know About DUI

DUI (Driving Under the Influence) is a criminal charge that can lead to jail time, fines, and a lifelong record. Whether you’re accused of alcohol, drugs, or prescription medication impairment, you need the best DUI criminal defense lawyer in your corner.

Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC): 0.08% is the legal limit for most drivers, but commercial drivers and those under 21 face even stricter standards.
Impairment by Substances: DUI laws cover alcohol, illegal drugs, and even some prescription or over-the-counter medications.
Zero Tolerance: For drivers under 21, any detectable alcohol can result in a DUI charge.

Helping You With The Consequences of a DUI Conviction

As your DUI defense attorney, I fight to minimize or eliminate:

Jail or Prison Time
Hefty Fines and Court Costs
Driver’s License Suspension or Revocation
Mandatory DUI Classes
Ignition Interlock Device Installation
Skyrocketing Insurance Rates
Employment & Professional License Risks

My DUI Defense Process

1. Comprehensive Case Review

I analyze every detail of your arrest, from the traffic stop to field sobriety tests and breathalyzer procedures.

2. Pre-Trial Negotiations

I negotiate firmly with prosecutors, often reducing charges or seeking outright dismissal.

3. Evidence Investigation

I scrutinize police reports, test results, and witness statements for errors or rights violations.

4. Trial Representation

If your case goes to court, I will present a compelling case on your behalf.

5. License Restoration Support

I guide you through DMV hearings and help restore your driving privileges as quickly as possible.

FREE CONSULTATION

OR CALL US 24/7 AT

(971) 336-7537

WHY ROBERT SOUTHWELL?

Results That Matter

+95% Success Rate in DUI Cases (dismissals, not guilty, or negotiated a satisfactory plea for client)
Deep Knowledge of Oregon DUI Laws
Direct, Honest Communication
Real-Time Case Updates
One-Time Flat Fee—No Surprises

My reputation as one of the best DUI defense lawyers in Oregon is built on results and client trust.

Last Updated: October 2026

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 52 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Lena Martinez 
 
 
 
 Trustindex 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  
   
   Shawn Kanan 
 
 
 
 Trustindex 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  
   
   AJ Val 
 
 
 
 Trustindex 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  
   
   Sylvia Lydon 
 
 
 
 Trustindex 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  
   
   Omar Dakhil 
 
 
 
 Trustindex 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  
   
   Abril Martinez 
 
 
 
 Trustindex 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  
   
   Pat Rogers 
 
 
 
 Trustindex 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  
   
   Josh Howard 
 
 
 
 Trustindex 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.

LEAVE A REVIEW

Success Stories

Real results. Real clients. Proven defense strategies.

VIEW ALL CASE STUDIES

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

Free Consultation

OR CALL US 24/7 AT

(971) 336-7537

Areas of Practice

Defending Your Rights. Fighting for Your Freedom.

Felony Person Crimes

Felony Property Crimes

Animal Abuse/Neglect

Misdemeanor Property Crimes

Misdemeanor Assaults

Drug Offenses

Domestic Violence

Criminal Traffic Charges

Sex Offenses

DUI

Police Brutality

Criminal Defense

Violent Crimes

Hit And Run Defense

Elder Abuse

Identity Theft

Reckless Driving

Kidnapping

Cyber Crime

Child Abuse

Disorderly Conduct

Expungement

Fraud And Evasion

Theft Lawyer

Take Action—Don’t Wait!

The sooner you contact a DUI defense attorney near you, the better your chances. Evidence fades, deadlines pass, and your rights need protection from day one. Don’t let a DUI charge define your future. Call today for your free consultation!

Flat fees. No surprises. Real-time updates.

528 Cottage Street NE

Suite 204B

Salem, OR, 97301

Map & Directions

(971) 336-7537

robert@southwelllaw.com

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

Contact Form

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FAQ

What should I do after a DUI arrest?

If you’ve been involved in a DUI arrest, contact a DUI criminal defense attorney near you immediately. They will guide you through the criminal justice process, protect your rights from the first interaction with the police officer, and ensure you don’t make statements that could harm your case.

How does a DUI defense lawyer help with my criminal case?

A DUI defense lawyer near you can act fast to review every aspect of your case, from the initial DUI investigation to the evidence gathered by the police officer. I will analyze whether your physical or mental abilities were lawfully assessed, challenge the validity of the breath test, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your situation, aiming for the best possible outcome.

What criminal penalties do DUI offenses carry?

DUI offenses can result in a range of criminal penalties. Even a first DUI arrest can lead to license suspension, mandatory DUI school, fines, and a criminal record. More serious cases, such as felony DUI, DUI causing serious bodily injury, or repeat offenses, can result in enhanced penalties, including jail time and a felony conviction.

Can a DUI defendant get their charges dismissed?

Yes, a DUI defendant may be able to get their case dismissed if the criminal defense attorney identifies procedural errors, lack of reasonable suspicion, or issues with how the police officer conducted the investigation. I have a track record of achieving dismissals for clients through aggressive legal strategies and challenging the prosecution’s evidence.

How do prior convictions affect my current DUI case?

Prior DUI convictions or a criminal record can significantly increase the penalties you face. A third or fourth felony DUI can result in much harsher consequences. As your drunk driving defense lawyer I will work to minimize the impact of prior convictions and protect your future.

What should I expect from the criminal justice process as a DUI defendant?

As a DUI defendant, your criminal case will proceed through several stages: arrest, arraignment in criminal court, pre-trial motions, possible plea negotiations, and trial if necessary. Throughout this process, as your DUI defense attorney I will advocate for your rights, challenge the prosecution’s case, and keep you informed every step of the way.

What if the police officer says my physical or mental abilities were impaired?

Police officers often rely on subjective observations of your physical or mental abilities during a DUI investigation. A skilled DUI defense attorney can contest these claims by examining bodycam footage, cross-examining the officer, and presenting expert testimony to dispute the prosecution’s narrative.

Why should I choose you for my DUI case?

At one time I prosecuted all kinds of traffic offenses, including DUIs. I even participated in law enforcement DUI training sessions, including the NHTSA manual (National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration). I would explain the scientific and physiological basis for the Standard Field Sobriety Tests (SFST) and impairment indicators.

I am an experienced DUI defense attorney, who has successfully defended countless DUI defendants throughout Oregon. I understand how a DUI carries serious consequences and am committed to building a strong defense strategy for every client. I offer a free case evaluation to discuss your options and next steps.

Can you help with felony DUI or cases involving serious bodily injury?

Absolutely. If your DUI charges involve felony DUI, reckless driving, or serious bodily injury, the stakes are extremely high. I have the expertise to handle serious criminal charges and fight for the best possible resolution for your case.

Areas We Serve

Explore the areas we serve and connect with an attorney that’s ready to help.

Portland, Oregon

https://southwelllaw.com/locations/portland/

Eugene, Oregon

https://southwelllaw.com/locations/eugene/

Corvallis, Oregon

https://southwelllaw.com/locations/corvallis/

Oregon City, Oregon

https://southwelllaw.com/locations/oregon-city/

Albany, Oregon

https://southwelllaw.com/locations/albany/

Salem, Oregon

https://southwelllaw.com/locations/salem/

Astoria, Oregon

https://southwelllaw.com/locations/astoria/

Tillamook, Oregon

https://southwelllaw.com/locations/astoria/

MEET ROBERT SOUTHWELL

Salem’s Trusted DUI Defense Attorney

10+

84%

500+

5 STAR

ABOUT

Relentless Advocacy. Proven Outcomes.

What You Need to Know About DUI

Helping You With The Consequences of a DUI Conviction

My DUI Defense Process

1. Comprehensive Case Review

2. Pre-Trial Negotiations

3. Evidence Investigation

4. Trial Representation

5. License Restoration Support

WHY ROBERT SOUTHWELL?

Results That Matter

Areas of Practice

Success Stories

Loss of Evidence (and State’s Delay) = Full Dismissal

Lack of Evidence = Lack of Case (and Full Dismissal!)

Dismissal of DUI Charge – Sleep-Deprived Client

Areas of Practice

Felony Person Crimes

Felony Property Crimes

Animal Abuse/Neglect

Misdemeanor Property Crimes

Misdemeanor Assaults

Drug Offenses

Domestic Violence

Criminal Traffic Charges

Sex Offenses

DUI

Police Brutality

Criminal Defense

Violent Crimes

Hit And Run Defense

Elder Abuse

Identity Theft

Reckless Driving

Kidnapping

Cyber Crime

Child Abuse

Disorderly Conduct

Expungement

Fraud And Evasion

Theft Lawyer

Take Action—Don’t Wait!

Contact Form

FAQ

Areas We Serve

Portland, Oregon

Eugene, Oregon

Corvallis, Oregon

Oregon City, Oregon

Albany, Oregon

Salem, Oregon

Astoria, Oregon

Tillamook, Oregon