Richard E Oberdorfer

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.

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!

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!

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.

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.