MEET ROBERT SOUTHWELL

Expert Property Crime Defense Lawyer in Oregon

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

Felony property crime charges—burglary, arson, grand theft, and more—can expose a person to sentences as long as 20 years and fines up to $375,000. If you’re accused of theft or property crimes involving substantial loss, you need an experienced property crimes lawyer. At Southwell Law, I defend clients against all types of property crime offenses with aggressive advocacy and proven results.
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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

robert southwell criminal defense lawyer

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

Serious Property Crime Charges Demand Expert Defense

At Southwell Law, I defend clients against an array of property crime offenses:

A single property crime conviction can trigger mandatory prison terms under ORS 137.717 and leave a permanent criminal record.

A masked burglar brandishing a gun, poised in a threatening stance.

Comprehensive Defense Strategies for Property Crime Cases

Thorough Evidence Analysis

I examine all evidence, including surveillance footage, witness statements, and forensic analysis. Working with expert investigators, I identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case that create reasonable doubt.

Aggressive Challenge of Evidence

Any evidence obtained through unlawful search and seizure gets challenged immediately. I scrutinize police procedures to expose violations of your constitutional rights and protect you from prosecutorial overreach.

Strategic Defense Planning

Every property crime case is unique. I develop defense strategies that may include lack of intent, mistaken identity, or proving you didn’t permanently deprive anyone of their property.

Skilled Trial Advocacy and Negotiation

I fight relentlessly to reduce or dismiss property crime charges through strategic negotiations. When trial becomes necessary, I present compelling defenses that challenge the prosecution’s case and protect your freedom.

Review all options for best resolution

Many property crimes can lead to presumptive prison sentences. Southwell Law has guided clients into treatment courts, drug probation programs and civil compromise dismissals to give their clients as many options for resolving a case that fits with their circumstances.

The Southwell Law Edge: Why Clients Win

Last Updated: October 2026
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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.

Success Stories

Real results. Real clients. Proven defense strategies.
Attorney Robert Southwell will fight tirelessly to achieve the best result possible in your case.
Phone icon for contacting Southwell Law

OR CALL US 24/7 AT

(971) 336-7537

Act Now to Protect Your Future

Delays erode evidence and bargaining power; working with an experienced property crime defense attorney maximizes leverage for the best outcome. Book a free case evaluation now and let Southwell Law craft a solid defense that serves your best interest.

Flat fees. No surprises. Real-time updates.

528 Cottage Street NE

Suite 204B

Salem, OR, 97301

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FAQ

What penalties follow a felony property crime conviction?

Class A felonies can reach 20 years in prison and $375,000 in fines, while Class C felonies still carry up to 5 years and $125,000.

How is first-degree burglary different from theft?

Burglary requires unlawful entry with intent to commit any crime inside, whereas theft hinges on unlawfully taking property; first-degree burglary is a Measure 11 offense with a 7.5-year mandatory minimum.

Can property crime charges be resolved without trial?

Yes—over 95% of Oregon criminal cases conclude through negotiated plea bargains, often yielding reduced charges or sentences.

What defenses exist for arson accusations?

Challenges may include disputing intent, proving accidental ignition, or contesting forensic fire analysis to undermine the prosecution’s case.

How does Measure 57 affect sentencing?

ORS 137.717 imposes presumptive prison terms—16 months for Class B and 13 months for Class C repeat property offenders—unless the defense secures an exception.

Will a conviction ruin employment prospects?

Felony property crimes appear on background checks and can restrict licensing, housing, and job opportunities, making an early, strong defense vital.

Is identity theft always a felony?

In Oregon, most identity-theft cases are Class B felonies, punishable by up to 10 years in prison.

Do prosecutors have to offer a plea bargain?

No, but skilled negotiation can spotlight flaws in the prosecution’s evidence and motivate a deal that serves the defendant’s best interest.

What if police searched without a warrant?

Illegally obtained evidence can be excluded, which may cripple the prosecution’s case and prompt dismissal or reduction of charges.

When should someone call a property crimes lawyer?

Immediately after arrest or learning of an investigation, because early intervention preserves evidence, protects rights, and sets the tone for a successful defense.

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