Skip to main content

Craig A Crispin

Employment and labor Attorney at Portland, OR

4.5   17 reviews
  • State Years
    Oregon - OR 41 years
    Washington - WA 42 years
  • Licensed for 41 years
    State OR
    Acquired 1982
    Status
    Active No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 42 years
    State WA
    Acquired 1981
    Status
    Voluntarily Resigned No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Craig

Learn Craig’s areas of practice.

4
Practice areas
  1. Employment and labor
    50%
    My work includes all facets of employment law, including negotiations, professional licensing, discrimination, individuals in education disputes, all forms of harassment and retaliation matters, and wrongful termination.

    41 years

  2. Discrimination
    20%
    My work includes all facets of employment law, including negotiations, professional licensing, discrimination, individuals in education disputes, all forms of harassment and retaliation matters, and wrongful termination.

    41 years

  3. Sexual harassment
    20%
    My work includes all facets of employment law, including negotiations, professional licensing, discrimination, individuals in education disputes, all forms of harassment and retaliation matters, and wrongful termination.

    41 years

  4. Wrongful termination
    10%
    My work includes all facets of employment law, including negotiations, professional licensing, discrimination, individuals in education disputes, all forms of harassment and retaliation matters, and wrongful termination.

    41 years

 

What is your opinion regarding clients educating themselves on legal issues?

I work WITH my client, and the more they know the more they can assist in their cases.

Are you willing to review documents prepared by clients?

I often work with clients who are capable of and do prepare their own documents. I prefer, in

many cases, to assist the client in making the initial presentation and/or demand.

Are you willing to coach clients who want to represent themselves?

An important part of my work with many clients is the development of a strategic plan in which

we sketch out what role is better suited for the client on his or her own, and what is better

suited for my direct intervention.

Why did you decide to be a lawyer?

I considered the legal profession the best way to make a difference in the day to day lives of

ordinary people.

What work experience and education helps you be a better lawyer?

I grew up in a working class small town, the son of a union mill worker with a 6th grade

education. I was able to pay my way through college and law school by the GI bill and part

and full-time jobs. With 28 years of experience representing individuals and companies in

employment related matters, I understand and appreciate the intricacies and interests of the

opposing parties in an employment dispute.

Why did you decide on your primary area of practice?

As I grew up in a working class town of working class parents, I knew about and identified with

working men and women. The practice of employment law gave me the opportunity to

advocate on behalf of the worker and to encourage employers to comply with the law

protecting employees.

What do you like best about your career?

I enjoy working with individuals rather than impersonal corporations. I enjoy the strategic

challenge of developing a plan to maximize a client's potential recovery for the violation of his or her rights.

Tell us about your law firm.

The firm is committed to providing the best employment law representation possible. All four

lawyers work exclusively (with very minor exceptions) in employment law representing

individuals with claims against employers or with and on behalf of individuals in strategic

planning regarding their employment relationships. With a combined experience exceeding 60 years, our four lawyers provide an unparalleled expertise in employment counseling and

employment claims litigation.

What are your strengths and style?

I listen to my clients and provide collaborative guidance and support. I attempt to discern each

client's goals and work toward achieving those goals. I am accessible and attempt to be

available to respond in a timely manner.

I am a professional, and I am good at what I do. I will not take unreasonable or unfounded

positions. I am tough with opposing counsel, but extend professional courtesies when

appropriate. I have been described as a bulldog; I pursue every angle and every fair

advantage on behalf of my clients.

Personal Interests.

I enjoy history, progressive politics, and children's issues.

Photos and videos

Contact Craig

Similar lawyers nearby

CRISPIN HANNON LLC
1834 SW 58th Avenue
Suite 200
Portland, OR, 97221

Reviews

4.5 / 5.0
  17 customer reviews
Posted by Michael | July 27, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
PLEASE, TAKE IT FROM ME...
I hired Mr. Crispin after having been a victim of discriminatory and workplace harassment following a request for a reasonable accommodation from a former employer. Initially, I was elated to have such a elite attorney not only agree to take on my case, but also to have had him agree to do so on a contingency basis — being that I was broke and barely employed at the time. Nevertheless, due to my own inability to trust in others, I grew wearily suspicious after having signed paperwork of which I had originally THOUGHT would somehow leave me penniles; that is, considering there was even any judgement in my favor to begin with. Additionally, I had initially sensed that Mr. Crispin didn’t actually believe me or my account of what had occurred; this lead to even further doubt of his abilities (at least, in my opinion). Nonetheless, all of the unfounded (and incorrect) assumptions couldn’t have been any further from the truth! And never did this become more apparent than the day that he and his paralegal represented me. Mr. Crispin was so unbelievably calm, collected and well-prepared that I was utterly astounded. Needless to say, Mr. Crispin was able to get me what I had so desperately needed (in a number of ways). All in all, Craig Crispin possesses all of the qualities that anyone could ever ask for — and this is clearly the reason why he is so successful in what he does.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | February 22, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
An outstanding attorney
Craig is the the first person I’d recommend in employment-related matters. I hired Craig and his firm to represent me to deal with negotiations involving a former employer. I was impressed not only by the depth of his knowledge, but also his willingness to educate and inform so I understood the process and how the case would unfold. Craig and his team represented my interests with tenacity and zeal. He was judicious in terms of how he spent time on my case and set an example for professionalism in dealing with the other side. I’m very thankful he agreed to take my case. Highly recommended.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | July 16, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Efficient
I appreciate that Mr Crispin acknowledged and responded to my initial request in a reasonable amount of time, and did not leave me hanging to wonder what was happening.
Posted by Julie | December 11, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Employment Attorney in Oregon!
Craig Crispin's knowledge and vast experience in Oregon Employment Law was evident from our consultation to filing in Federal Court, to settlement negotiations; I knew I had the best. I want to thank Craig and his impressive team for doing an outstanding job on my case!
Posted by Muna | March 16, 2014
Highly Recommend - Knowledgeable, Ethical, and Aggressive!
I found Craig Crispin at a time when I was greatly in need of an honest, courageous, and aggressive lawyer to represent me. Mr. Crispin turned out to be all that and more. I appreciated his professionalism, ethics, and aggressive approach to my case. He kept me in the loop about every step of the process and gave me a realistic idea of what to expect. He went head-to-head with my then employer, a formidable company, and delivered a result that surpassed all my expectations. Mr. Crispin's deep knowledge of the law, diligence, and passion were exactly what I needed! I highly recommend Mr. Crispin!
Read less
Posted by Rosemary | March 9, 2014
Employment Law Suit with Eastern Oregon University
I was referred to Craig Crispin by my daughter, Corinna Barrett Lain, who is an associate dean for Richmond Law School in Richmond, VA. From the very first meeting with Craig, I felt very comfortable. He told me up front how he felt about taking my case and also told me that it may take from 2 1/2 to 3 years to settle, depending on what happened along the way. I always felt that he took as much time with me as needed. He was honest and caring and truly believed in my case. I was always able to contact him on his personal phone and visit as long as I felt necessary. He was very thorough and always listens to me. He likewise responded sometimes immediately to my emails. He kept me informed continuously about the progress, the issues and everything else that went on during this time. When I didn't understand a term or issue or particular filing, he always explained it to me. I respected Craig throughout the time he worked on my case.
Read less
Posted by Liz Wilson | June 30, 2013
Highly Recommend
I hired Craig to help with an employment situation. He was what I needed to move forward with my job. I appreciated his way to read situations and adjust as needed. His knowledge of employment law is reassuring and it is worth him being present in certain situations.
Posted by anonymous | December 22, 2011
Employment/Discrimination All Star
Craig was brought on represent me in an ongoing case, my primary lawyer was from out of state. He did an amazing job. Anyone looking for a caring, knowledgeable, hard working attorney need go no further.
Posted by William | May 21, 2011
An Honorable Lawyer
Mr. Crispin is the kind of lawyer you hope for. He respects his client because he cares about you as well as your case. You can always reach him directly. He works very hard to represent you and strives to understand your case by fully involving you as well as relying on his own research and his firm. In my case, we had a very unusual aspect of the law to overcome. Mr. Crispin had to do a great deal of research to win a hearing on a motion to dismiss based on this part of the law and he successfully won a decision to go to trial. This lead to a settlement victory for us. He has a great knowledge of the law so even when it may seem there is not much hope of a positive outcome, he will do the hard work to make sure your case can be presented effectively and forcefully. Mr. Crispin is outstanding in his profession. Mr. Crispin is also a terrific person and easy to work with.
Read less
Posted by Ken Hamlin | May 18, 2011
Very reliable
Mr. Craig Crispin worked for ten long years on my case, he kept it going even when I was ready to give up. I am very glad he kept believing in my case and that I listened to him.
Posted by anonymous | January 17, 2011
One of the Best Civil Attorney's in Portland
Mr. Crispin and his firm are up-to-date with all of the Oregon State Statues which gave answers to my questions very promptly. His answers were clear, honest and to the point. His deposition techniques were very impressive. My case was everything but easy, and he was not afraid to accept my case when all the odds were against me. I recommend Crispin Employment Law Firm to anyone who feels that they are at the end of the rope.
Read less
Posted by Ellen | July 22, 2010
Excellent Lawyer - Terrific Human Being
Craig's representation of my developmentally-disabled sister, in an employment law situation, was invaluable. Always respectful, patient, and understanding with her, as the client - he was also very diligent, timely, thorough, and informative with the family as we worked through this difficult and sometimes exhausting process. While Craig was encouraging and positive - he was still realistic and forthright. Such a hard worker... a bulldog for our case! yet conducted himself in an honorable and ethical manner. We were proud he was our attorney - very satisfied with the outcome of the case - and would definitely recommend him.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | July 1, 2009
Experience is key!
My experience with Craig has revealed a man with integrity, experience and the intellect to achieve my legal needs. He is sensitive to his clients needs and always keeps you in the “information circle” so that you always know what is going on with your case. I highly recommend Craig because he is an excellent attorney.
Posted by anonymous | May 5, 2009
Employer contract compliance
I worked with Craig Crispin when an employer terminated me and refused to honor our contract. Craig has excellent knowledge of the employement and contract law areas. He was able to structure and approach that gave the employer a chance to meet us part way. When the employer refused, the case went to arbitration. It was obvious that Craig has a lot of court and arbitration experience. His questioning of the employer's witnesses brought out numerous instances that proved our contention.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | May 14, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Termination/Descrimination
Mr. Crispin was unable to review my document. Charges 500.00 + per hour. I was not looking only into documentation review but also see if I had a Harassment/Discrimination case. In addition when one gets terminated one does not receive "severance". I have found another lawyer willing to read my docs.
Response from Craig Crispin May 15, 2018
I am sometimes not able to assist all who contact me, particularly when it does not appear as if the facts relating to their situation are not favorable. Unfortunately, I cannot comment directly about this person who inquired about my services, but apparently never met with me. It does appear, though, that he or she wanted me to examine documents in advance, which I was unable to do. I am sorry the caller was unable to get the free services it appears were desired.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | February 4, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Didn't See Attentiveness
Mr. Crispin assisted me out of a bad employment contract, but I had to repeat myself many times in our communications. The opposing counsel was told they were in a penalty period, reducing our payment. Items I requested to be negotiated were not, and I was not advised on the legality of an action I took and the risk it may pose. The last communication I received was one to address something from the opposing counsel that had been sent two weeks prior to his email to me and allowed to go ignored. For all I paid I do not feel it was worth paying for legal services given the lack of action.
Read less
Response from Craig Crispin February 6, 2019
I know how frustrating it can be negotiating with a former employer. I too am often frustrated by unresponsiveness by opposing counsel or an employer's refusal even to consider what we believe to be very reasonable resolution options. Unfortunately, it takes both parties to be willing to negotiate to reach a resolution. I am sorry this instance was one of those where an immediate resolution was not forthcoming.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | July 18, 2012
Felt Mislead
We hired Craig on the basis of ratings, recommendations and the strength of his representations during the first meeting. He seemed honest, well versed in the law, and tenacious and aggressive. Originally he was taking the case on a contingency basis but then suggested we pay hourly as it would likely be settled quickly and easily and this would be to our benefit. It was agreed that we would pay hourly during negotiations and then switch to contingency if we ended up filing in court. We trusted his expertise. When negotiations failed Craig first said that we would skip filing a Labor & industries (BOLI) claim, then changed his mind. He told us to expect to lose with BOLI but we might get good research from them, then we would file in court. We did lose at BOLI, then had trouble getting responses from Craig. During this entire time we were billed and paid his full rates. At the 11th hour he returned a call and informed us that he was not interested in going forward with the case. When asked what had changed since first taking our case, he couldn't provide a responsive answer. All the facts discovered were exactly as we told him at the outset. Our costs were significant and sadly our trust was misplaced.
Read less
Response from Craig Crispin March 10, 2014
I can never guarantee that the facts developed in our initial investigation will be sufficient to proceed to litigation. I understand that can be disappointing to clients, but I can only take meritorious cases into court. This client, unfortunately, had expectations that I would take his case into court regardless of its merits. Those expectations were unrealistic. I'm sorry this client was disappointed, but could handle the matter no other way and maintain my integrity and professionalism.
Read less
View less reviews

Cost

Rates
  • Hourly Rates $ 250-525 per hour
  • Contingency 25%-45%
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Managing Shareholder
  • CRISPIN EMPLOYMENT LAW PC
  • 1992 - Present
  • Chair, Region 5
  • Oregon State Bar Disciplinary Board
  • 2004 - 2020
  • Employment Litigation Attorney
  • Bullard Smith Jernstedt Wilson
  • 1984 - 1992
  • Associate Litigation Attorney
  • Stoel Rives
  • 1982 - 1984
View all work experience

Education

  • Willamette University College of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor Magna Cum Laude
  • 1981
  • Southern Illinois University
  • BS - Bachelor of Science Univeristy Honors
  • 1978

Legal Cases

  • Siring v. Eastern Oregon University
  • Jury Verdict in favor of Plaintiff
  • Hamlin v. Hampton Lumber
  • Jury Verdict for Plaintiff
  • Prosser v. Tuma dba Automotive Paint Specialities
  • Jury Verdict for Plaintiff
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Oregon State Bar
  • Member
  • 1982 - Present
  • Washington State Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1981 - 2020

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Super Lawyers for Employment Litigation
  • Thomson Reuters
  • 2017
  • Best Lawyers in America -- Employment Law - Individuals
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2017
  • Best Lawyers in America -- Employment Law - Individuals
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2016
  • Super Lawyers for Employment Litigation
  • Thomson Reuters
  • 2016
  • Best Lawyers in America -- Employment Law - Individuals
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2015
  • Super Lawyer for Employment Litigation
  • Thomson Reuters
  • 2015
  • Best Lawyers in America -- Employment Law - Individuals
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2014
  • Super Lawyers for Employment Litigation
  • Thomson Reuters
  • 2014
  • Super Lawyer for Employment Litigation
  • Thomson Reuters
  • 2013
  • Super Lawyer for Employment Ligation
  • Thomson Reuters
  • 2012
  • Super Lawyer for Employment Litigation
  • Thomson Reuters
  • 2011
  • Super Lawyer for Employment Litigation
  • Thomson Reuters
  • 2010
  • Super Lawyers for Employment Litigation
  • Thomson Reuters
  • 2009
  • Super Lawyers for Employment Litigation
  • Thomson Reuters
  • 2008
  • Super Lawyers for Employment Litigation
  • Thomson Reuters
  • 2007
  • Super Lawyers for Employment & Labor
  • Thomson Reuters
  • 2006
  • AV Rating Since
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 1999
View all awards

Publications

  • Federal Civil Litigation in Oregon
  • Editorial Board
  • 2009
  • The Family and Medical Leave Act
  • Cumulative Supplement (Contributing Author)
  • 2008
  • 2002 Revision of Federal Civil Litigation in Oregon (Oregon State Bar Publication)
  • Jury Instructions, Jury Verdicts, Findings by the Court (Chapter 24)
  • 2002
  • Oregon State Bar Private Sector Labor Law, 2002 Cumulative Supplement
  • Equal Employment Opportunity, Chapter 4
  • 2002
  • Oregon State Bar Workers Compensation
  • Americans with Disabilities Act
  • 1994
View all publications

Speaking Engagements

  • OTLA Annual Convention
  • Appellate Advocacy: Increase Your Appeal -- Getting by with a Little Help from Your Friends
  • 2011
  • 2011 NELA Annual Convention
  • Preparing A Witness For Deposition: “Teaching More Than The Facts”—How To Prepare The Witness’ Attitude, Thinking & Perception Of The Deposition
  • 2011
  • NELA Annual Convention
  • Executives in Transition
  • 2007
  • Accommodating Disabilities & FMLA Leaves
  • Preparing the Case, Challenging Summary Judgment & Preparing the Appeal
  • 2006
  • OTLA Seminar
  • Effective Use of Civil Procedure
  • 2005
  • NELA Annual Convention
  • Winning the 'Regarded As' & 'Record Of" ADA Case
  • 2005
  • Labor & Employment Section Annual Meeting
  • Evidence Issues in Employment Law
  • 2005
  • NELA Florida Spring Seminar
  • Threshold Issues in Employment Law
  • 2004
  • Workers' Compensation Section Annual Conference
  • Workers' Compensation Discrimination
  • 2003
  • ABA Annual Convention
  • Legal Definition of Employee
  • 2003
  • WSTLA Reciprocity Seminar
  • Oregon Legal Ethics
  • 2002
  • OLI Seminar
  • Motions for Summary Judgment
  • 2002
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (4)
Given (5)
Endorse Craig
Employment and labor Attorney | Feb 20
Relationship: Co-worker
"A brilliant, trustworthy and highly respected attorney in the legal community. Craig possesses the work ethic and tenacity to tackle the most complicated legal problems. I wholeheartedly endorse Craig."
Employment and labor Attorney | Jun 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have had the pleasure of working with attorney Craig Crispin. I have sought advice from him regarding employment discrimination matter, used him as an expert witness, and collaborated in the prosecution of a case. No matter how our paths have crossed, I have always found him to be professional, knowledgeable, and prepared. For these reasons and more, I would recommend Craig Crispin."
Employment and labor Attorney | May 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work."
Employee benefits Attorney | Apr 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Craig Crispin is a brilliant employment attorney. His scope of knowledge in the employment law field is vast and constantly increasing with the changes in this legal specialty. He works very closely with his clients, and will take his client's case to the United States Supreme Court to win a legal point. His office is excellently organized and his staff are wonderful in their approach to the firm's clientele. I highly recommend this attorney."
Employment and labor
Employment and labor
Employment and labor
Employment and labor
Employment and labor