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Richard E Oberdorfer

DUI and DWI Attorney at Portland, OR

5.0   13 reviews
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
  • Licensed for 21 years
    State OR
    Acquired 2001
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

About Richard

Learn Richard’s areas of practice.

2
Practice areas
  1. DUI and DWI
    95%

    22 years, 3,000 cases

  2. Criminal defense
    5%

    22 years, 1,000 cases

AGGRESSIVE AND SMART DUII DEFENSE

Rich Oberdorfer fights for Oregon motorists in trouble with the law all over the state. He is a frequent lecturer on DUII, alcohol, cannabis, and driving-related topics. He graduated cum laude from Lewis & Clark Law School in 2001, after 5 years working at a Measure 11, murder, and serious criminal defense firm. He loves his job and his clients. He is licensed to practice before all Oregon courts, the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon and the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.

Awards

Top Contributor 2021,2020,2018,2017,2016,2015,2014,2013,2012
Top Contributor
2021 2020 2018 + 6 ...

Photos and videos

Contact Richard

Oberdorfer Law Firm LLC
909 N Beech Street, Unit 217
Portland, OR, 97227

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  13 customer reviews
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Posted by Miguel | January 9, 2012
A superb, intelligent and reliable attorney and legal advocate
Back when I was in college, Volvo automobiles had a reputation for quality and safety that was unmatched. They were reliable, over-engineered, they handled well and if you ever found yourself in a tricky or dangerous driving situation or condition, you had an extra degree of security if you were in a Volvo. These days, Mercedes has a similar reputation for being an excellent and safe vehicle; but Volvos have the advantage that they give you quality…for a much more affordable price. The automotive metaphor holds true for the legal profession as well I think: if you find yourself in a tricky or dangerous legal situation, you are lucky if you have an intelligent and experienced lawyer on your side. Rich Oberdorfer is that kind of lawyer and advocate: a consummately intelligent man who knows the law inside an out, and even better, who understands the complexities and nuances of Oregon’s daunting legal system. Recently, my son, a responsible young man, found himself facing DUII charges after being arrested by an overly aggressive law officer, in spite of the fact that a subsequent breathalyzer test established that his blood alcohol level was well under the proscribed limits. But because of the complexity of our legal system, he nonetheless found himself in a difficult position. We were lucky enough to secure Rich’s services to represent him. Rich doesn’t pull punches – he gave us a thorough and thoughtful explanation and analysis and then recommended a course of action which ultimately proved successful. It was a stressful and trying time for us and our family, but Richard’s clarity, articulateness, and quick and thoughtful actions ensured a good outcome. I have no hesitations whatsoever in recommending Rich Oberdorfer’s professional services – especially if the situation or case involves a potetnial DUII charges. He’s someone we relied on and he delivered beyond our best expectations.
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Posted by Elizabeth | January 28, 2014
Process Made Smoother
In reflecting on this rough year after the DUI and Diversion program, I would highly recommend Rich Oberdorfer! He (and Rob) were understanding, compassionate, knowledgeable and ON IT every time! With me being in Nashville, TN, I was afraid it'd be harder to communicate. Not at all. Every time I needed them for advice or information, they were quick to respond. And snags in the process were handled efficiently and smoothly! Plus they didn't nickel and dime me. Thanks so much to Oberdorfer Law Firm. I would highly recommend!
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Posted by Jay | January 16, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
An inspired client.
From the moment I met Rich I was at ease, he just has a very calming and poised presence. He has the accolades to prove his worth and I’m very pleased to have him on my side. Well worth the consult!
Posted by anonymous | December 26, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Compassionate specialist you can trust for any Oregon DUII eventuality
tldr: I was fortunate to hire Rich mid-case and got the best possible legal outcome (charges dropped and expunged) combined with a DUI attorney and support-office who really helped reduce the anxiety associated with fighting the charge. Had my case gone to trial, I know Rich would have won, but I am also sure his reputation is a big part of the reason the prosecutor/police didn't go to trial. My case was a low-blow DUII (0.06 at the station). I made aggravating mistakes by talking/lying to the police (don't ever talk to the police) and performing the field sobriety tests (a mixed bag). I had some good facts going for me, but DUII isn't a charge most police or prosecutors will let go. A few words on DUII charges in Oregon. There is no plea bargaining, so hiring a paper pusher or negotiator won't do it. If charges are not dropped, there is only diversion or going to trial. The law is tilted to make trial difficult for the defense. Most people will have to plead guilty and the state knows this. If you want to avoid charges or go to court you need some good facts and a lawyer who is formidable and known in the courtroom for DUII trial defense. You want someone who relishes the idea of arguing your case or a case like it every day, winning, getting better, and then arguing the same points next year. This is Rich. I had a non-specialist lawyer representing me after my arrest, but I had grown uncomfortable enough that when I was finally charged, I auditioned Rich (after reading much of his great advice on Avvo). During the initial consultation Rich gave me a preview of how he would try the case on my behalf and it was decisive and convincing. After re-discussing strategy with my original lawyer, I realized I had to switch to Rich if I wanted to fight. The Oberdorfer Law office handled the case transfer with the utmost kindness and professionalism. Rich outlined the overall trial strategy and developed several new prongs of attack as we got closer. Rich read every long anxious treatise and theory I sent him about my case and responded quickly and firmly to put me back on track. He was experienced enough to tell me why we shouldn't litigate every detail in front of the judge and jury even when it seemed like those details should have been minor points in our favor. Rich drove out to my town twice to represent me in court as the case moved towards trial. He drafted and consulted with me on several legal motions which he entertained filing but which we ultimately decided to reserve until trial. At all steps he included me in the decision process and treated me with respect beyond what I earned. I was not a perfect client, but I could not have dreamed of a more perfect lawyer. The end was interesting. We thought we had a case we could win at trial and Rich had run various parts by me several times. The prosecution then scheduled a court date which the officer could not attend. This should have been embarassing for them, but there was an excuse. Then they conferred and scheduled another date with the court which the officer again said he could not attend. Rich carefully explained that we should lay low because prosecutor and police were laying the grounds for dismissing their own case with fingers pointed at each other (so as to have nobody to blame). This was exactly what happened and charges were dropped without prejudice before trial. They were never re-filed. Would this remarkable set of events have happened without a trial lawyer of Rich's caliber and notoriety? I think the police officer and prosecutor would have found themselves able to read a calendar together. Was Rich worth every penny I paid? Absolutely. It was a long time to become eligible for expungement, but Rich and Rob handled it for me without additional charge. I hope never to be in such a situation again, but I would hire Rich in a heartbeat if I was. I would recommend him for friends and family without hesitation.
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Posted by Lois | December 9, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Quality services with integrity
We hired Rich to represent our son on a .00 felony DUI/marijuana case. Rich hired necessary experts that showed that there was no recent marijuana use and clearly there was no alcohol in his system. This was a long case with 3 dismissals. Rich charged a flat fee, which was very reasonable. Rich was prepared, straightforward, and able to explain the case and the defenses so that we felt informed at all times on the status of the case. Rich won a final dismissal on a Motion, in which the Court found that the state had been "grossly negligent" in attempting to serve our son with the third indictment outside the statute of limitations. We are civil attorneys and would highly recommend Rich's services to anyone that needs criminal defense.
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Posted by Scott | December 7, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommend!
Rich has been incredible throughout the entirety of my lengthy and unusual case! He was extremly knowledgable and very accessible. My case was dismissed and reissued multiple times resulting in many more court appearances than originally planned. Rich never once asked for more money after our one time agreement. He was great in trial and always kept me up-to-date on my case. I don't know what experiences people have with other attorneys but i can't imagine a much better attorney than Rich. I HIGHLY recommend him to anybody who needs a great attorney for a very reasonable rate!
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Posted by anonymous | May 19, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Permanent Revocation - License Reinstated!
I had my driving privileges permanently revoked in 2006 after a 3rd offense misdemeanor DUII. Rich was extremely knowledgeable regarding the petition process, and helped guide me through the steps outlined in the statute (ORS 809.235). After 10.5 years of not having a license, yesterday I took my DMV drive test and had my Oregon driving privileges reinstated! Thanks Rich for your help and advice!
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Posted by anonymous | February 11, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
BUII Arrest
Mr. Oberdorfer helped me with a boating under the influence case in Jefferson County. It was a .003 case with a damning police report on what I allegedly said to the officer at the time of arrest. I was offered diversion, but I knew I was innocent. We took the case to trial, and with his expertise in this field, I was found not guilty. Richard fully prepared me for what to expect at trial. I have never been in this kind of trouble and Richard made a very stressful situation bearable. I don't foresee needing a lawyer again, but he would be the first I would call.
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Posted by Andars | August 24, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The best of the best
Richard Oberdorfer is the man! From day one he made me feel comfortable and optimistic about my situation. He is very experienced and would always make sure that I understood everything that was going on in my case. Communication was always prompt and thorough. I always felt completely prepared when entering the court room. Not only is he a great attorney but he is also a caring and kind man that I trust. What a great guy.
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Posted by Eric | August 20, 2014
Pendleton Oregon Case
We found Richard to be a very nice and pleasant person to work with. The case was complicated, long and arduous. For the entire duration he was very persistent in paying attention to detail and in keeping us immediately informed with developments and progress. Richard demonstrated an excellent ability to develop and implement a definite plan, but remained flexible to move in another direction as it became necessary (which it did on more than one occasion during the course of the case). Richard's efforts led to an acquittal. Richard's fee and terms were communicated clearly in the beginning and there were no changes despite the length of the case. I would recommend Richard.
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Posted by Steve | March 20, 2014
The Best Traffic citation Attorney. This Firm will work with all Courts and Countys in Oregon,and do a Great Job. Thanks Emily.
I found this Firm on the Net and had good Reviews, so i called them when i received 2-traffic citations,and felt they were wrongfully given to me,and i was not guilty.they explained to me on the phone about their fees,and what they will do for you.I decided to go to their Firm to pay them,and i must say a very 1st class Firm,and office,i was happy to pay them their fees.after i did this,Emily took my case on,Made calls,got all court Doc's, and Police notes,after her research,and time she was able to work things out to my Advantage. And I was Very Happy with Her,and Her Firm,and i would recommended this Law Firm to Anyone. I got not only great service, I got Good Results.Well worth the fees.Again Thank-You Emily,and your Firm.
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Posted by anonymous | September 17, 2013
Richard Oberdorder review - Sept 2013
Richard Oberdorfer provides excellent legal support and expertise knowledge in criminal defense matters. Richard made what was an extremely stressful situation very smooth and painless. He has always been nothing but professional, sensitive to the situation, and available when I needed him, not to mention going above and beyond what was necessary (he drove me to the DMV following a suspended license issue). I would highly recommend his legal services in the future to friends/family, should the need arise for representation. Thanks again, Richard!
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Posted by John | November 26, 2012
Portland's Top Attorney For Traffic Offenses
#1 attorney in Portland to help with traffic related citations. Fast, honest, and fair - everything you would want in legal assistance. Mr Oberdorfer has helped me with two wrongful citation cases.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Municipal Judge pro tem
  • Oregon City
  • 2022 - Present
  • Municipal Judge
  • City of Gaston
  • 2021 - Present
  • Municipal Judge pro tem
  • City of Saint Helens
  • 2021 - Present
  • Oberdorfer Law Firm LLC
  • 2002 - Present
  • Rieke & Savage, PC
  • 1997 - 2002
View all work experience

Education

  • Lewis & Clark Law School
  • Juris Doctor cum laude
  • 2001
  • University of Oregon
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1996

Legal Cases

  • State of Oregon v. Dohoon Kim
  • Complete dismissal

Associations

  • Oregon Municipal Judges Association
  • member
  • 2021 - Present
  • Oregon Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
  • 2002 - Present

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Selected to Super Lawyers
  • Oregon Super Lawyers
  • 2023
  • Selected by his peers for inclusion in field of DUI/DWI Defense
  • The Best Lawyers in America
  • 2017
  • Top Rated DUI-DWI Attorney in Portland, OR
  • Oregon Super Lawyers
  • 2017
  • Rising Star, Criminal Defense: DUI/DWI
  • Oregon Super Lawyers
  • 2012
  • Rising Star, Criminal Defense: DUI/DWI
  • Oregon Super Lawyers
  • 2011
  • Rising Star, Criminal Defense: DUI/DWI
  • Oregon Super Lawyers
  • 2010
  • Rising Star, Criminal Defense: DUI/DWI
  • Oregon Super Lawyers
  • 2009
  • Rising Star, Criminal Defense: DUI/DWI
  • Oregon Super Lawyers
  • 2008
  • Michael E. Haglund pro bono award
  • Multnomah Bar Association, Legal Aid Services of Oregon Volunteer Lawyers Project
  • 2004
View all awards

Publications

  • Criminal Law Formbook
  • Release from Custody
  • 2006
  • Criminal Law Formbook
  • Witnesses
  • 2006
  • The DUII Trial Notebook
  • Discovery
  • 2004
View all publications

Speaking Engagements

  • Oregon Municipal Judges Association Noon CLE
  • Substance Use Disorders and Legal Practice
  • 2022
  • OCDLA DUII Conference
  • Zealous Advocacy and Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD): Helping Suffering Clients
  • 2022
  • MPD CLE
  • DMV Collateral Consequences
  • 2021
  • DUII Skills Presentation
  • DUII Jury Selection, Theme, Cross-Exam, Closing Argument, Client Relations
  • 2020
  • Taking the High Road: Impaired Driving and DUII Defense
  • Investigation, Discovery, and Focusing Your Cross-Examination
  • 2018
  • Oregon Criminal Defense Lawyers Association DUII Conference
  • Cross-Examination of the Lab Technician
  • 2016
  • Traffic Tickets and Landlord-Tenant Court
  • Defending Traffic Cases
  • 2013
  • Oregon Criminal Defense Lawyers Association Annual Conference
  • Jury Selection in DUII Cases
  • 2013
  • Oregon State Bar DUII Conference
  • DUII Diversion
  • 2012
  • Oregon Criminal Defense Lawyers Association DUII Conference
  • Coordinator and Moderator
  • 2010
  • Understanding Oregon DUII Cases Seminar
  • Jury Selection in DUII Cases
  • 2009
  • DUII and Driving Offenses Seminar
  • Litigating Issues Related to Prior Convictions
  • 2007
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (49)
Given (50)
Endorse Richard
Unknown Attorney | Jul 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Richard is an exceptional attorney and an all-around great guy. Our firm regularly relies on him for his expertise in traffic and criminal DUII matters. Anyone facing charges of that nature would do well to hire Richard and to heed his second-to-none advice."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Apr 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Rich is an authority on DUI law and practice in Oregon. He has experience beyond his considerable years of practice. He is smart as a whip, but he doesn't flaunt this. He's respected in the legal community, and for good reason, given his contributions to it. And he's generous and kindhearted. If I, or anyone I care about, was ever on the wrong side of the law, I'd call Rich right away."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Mar 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Oberdorfer is an excellent attorney. It has been by pleasure to see his practice grow over the years. He is respected by his colleagues. Mr. Oberdorfer can be considered a lawyer's lawyer, a sure sign that he is highly regarded in his profession. I would not hesitate to refer clients to Mr. Oberdorfer, knowing the client would be in good hands."
Unknown Attorney | Aug 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known and worked with Rich for many years, and it has been a pleasure watching him develop into one of Oregon's preeminent DUII attorneys. I would (and do) refer friends and family to him without hesitation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 28
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Mr. Oberdorfer has been my go-to guy for 2nd opinions on traffic matters and on criminal defense. He has always been very helpful to other lawyers in the community. He helped me beat at least one traffic ticket and has all kinds of tips up his sleeve on how to handle DUII and traffic matters in a legally strategic manner."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Rich is an excellent attorney and is very knowledgeable about criminal defense. I endorse him."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Oct 05
Relationship: Other
"I've never met Mr. Oberdorfer and only "know" him by way of reading his answers to questions on AVVO. That said, it is clear to me that he not only has a comprehensive understanding of the law and procedure, but Mr. Oberdorfer masterfully stitches answers together in such a way as to be practical, sensical and easily understandable to the reader. Based upon his AVVO answers I am confident that Mr. Oberdorfer speaks in equally compellingly terms to both the Judge and to the Jury (legalese and straight-up), and that is the hallmark of a great litigator. If you have a DUI / DWI or criminal defense related issue in the Portland area then I encourage you to contact Richard Oberdorfer. I would, and I proudly endorse him"
DUI and DWI Attorney | Oct 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Rich has so much knowledge of DUI cases, it seems some prosecutors walk in with a disadvantage before the trial has even started. An excellent fighter for his clients."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Apr 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Rich Oberdorfer is a master DUII lawyer. When criminal defense lawyers want advice on how to defend a DUII, they often go to Rich – because he’s genuinely kind, and he’s got all the answers. Rich is a natural trial lawyer, a true freedom-fighter, and respected by prosecutors and judges statewide. I fully endorse Rich!"
DUI and DWI Attorney | Feb 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"13 years of DUI practice is very experienced. His knowledge of both the law and procedure is excellent and evident in his pro bono contributions. His client reviews are stellar.READ THEM! Endorsements from other attorneys are also outstanding. Results matter and judging from his reviews he gets them. Do yourself a favor and schedule a consultation with him."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. He is awesome and will defend you with all he's got, and that's a lot!"
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jul 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"An extremely talented and well respected attorney in the legal community, I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone looking for a lawyer who knows the law and truly cares about protecting the rights of his clients and getting them the most favorable result possible."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jul 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Richard possesses a rare mixture of courtroom skill, knowledge of the law, and kindness towards others. Richard will provide you with a great defense and the court system will seem less scary and daunting with him at your side."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 04
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Rich has been the opposing counsel on many of my cases. He's a knowledgeable and talented litigator."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Nov 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Oberdorfer is a great courtroom lawyer. Intelligent and thoughtful, he is a rare combination of muscle and manners in how he takes on the DA and works with his clients. For someone looking for a great lawyer to handle their DUII case calling Mr. Oberdorfer is a good move."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Nov 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I have referred Richard a number of clients with confidence that he will handle their matter effectively and professionally."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Oct 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"As a DUI attorney across the river in Clark County, WA, Rich is a valuable resource for all things DUI related in Oregon. Rich has assisted me on a number of cases in the past and I always appreciate his knowledge, insight and approach to the law."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Oct 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Rich is an excellent attorney. He is knowledgeable, compassionate and clearly cares about his clients. I continue to refer my clients, family and friends to Rich with positive feedback. I am happy to endorse Rich."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Oct 10
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Rich is an all around good guy with a great depth of knowledge and experience in DUII law. He is incredibly effective with jurors and has gained the respect of prosecutors, courts and defense attorneys because of his skill and knowledge in the court room. I endorse rich with enthusiasm!"
DUI and DWI Attorney | Aug 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have know Rich for years as an excellent and diligent counselor. His work in DUII defense is unparalleled."
View more endorsements
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Speeding and traffic ticket
Criminal defense
Discrimination
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Portland DUI and DWI Lawyer Richard E Oberdorfer
Richard E Oberdorfer
DUI and DWI Attorney
Portland, OR
Licensed for 21 years
Free Consultation
Virtual consultation available