Representing families in Washington and Tillamook Counties since 2004.

Practice Areas

Juvenile Dependency

All aspects of juvenile dependency law require legal representation with attorneys who are experienced and comfortable with addressing the legal issues of each case. Parents and children may become involved in a juvenile dependency case when the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) begins an investigation of potential child neglect. In some cases, ODHS may decide to assert jurisdiction through the court system; other times, ODHS may work with families informally addressing the concerns of ODHS. If the case ends up in court with ODHS attempting to assert jurisdiction, sometimes it is in the parents’ best interest to cooperate with DHS but in other cases, it may be best to have a contested jurisdiction trial. If jurisdiction is established, the court will order parents to engage in services to resolve the safety concerns. If parents do not engage, it can lead to termination of parental rights.

Juvenile Delinquency

When a youth becomes involved with the juvenile justice system it can have lifelong consequences. If a petition is filed with the juvenile delinquency court for conduct that, if they were an adult, would be considered a crime. Involvement with the juvenile justice system can impact the youth’s Constitutional rights to remain silent, confront witnesses and have the state prove the allegations “beyond a reasonable doubt” all are implicated. If found within the jurisdiction of the court, the youth may be placed on probation, engage in drug and alcohol services, undergo mental health treatment. These services can provide much needed support but can also remain in the youth’s record for life. When a youth faces these consequences, they need an attorney that will minimize the stress and maximize the results.