Criminal Law

Tom Collins has practiced criminal law since 1981. He began his legal career with Metropolitan Public Defenders, where he rose through the office to became Senior Felony Attorney, overseeing the attorneys and staff in the felony section of the Portland Office, The years as a public defender in a high volume trial practice allowed Tom skilled litigator.

In 1988, Tom opened his own practice in Hillsboro, Oregon where he has continued to emphasize criminal law as a major part of his practice. Tom has successfully tried all types of serious cases including homicides, robberies, assaults, sex crimes, driving under the influence, and all types of misdemeanors. His years of experience allow him to assist his clients in understanding the nature of the charges against them, and giving them the best analysis of what their options are.

Success in criminal cases often hinges on getting started as soon as possible.  If the police are attempting to speak with you, or you have been arrested, getting an attorney with the experience and resources to preserve the evidence and find the witnesses as soon as possible is tremendously important.  Early intervention may lead to cases not getting charged by the District Attorney, or decreasing the number and severity of potential charges because all of the evidence, not just what the police found makes its way into court.

Since the passage of Oregon’s Ballot Measure 11, along with other laws that call for mandatory prison sentences, the stakes have been raised for defendants in criminal cases. People under investigation or charged with crimes need experienced counsel to assist them through the process, and achieve the best outcome. Tom Collins has the experience to protect your rights, and defend you when your freedom is at stake.