Sexual Abuse Attorney in Portland
Personalized Defense for Sexual Abuse Charges in Portland
Sexual abuse accusations require a defense built around the specific charge, the state’s evidence, and the circumstances behind the allegation. At Law Office of Robert R. Cleland, we develop a strategy tailored to each client’s situation.
Portland sex crime cases proceed under Oregon law in Multnomah County Circuit Court. We have extensive experience in these courts, have represented hundreds of clients, and have handled numerous jury trials. That background informs how we assess accusations, prepare for negotiations, and advocate in court.
Speak with a sexual abuse attorney in Portland as early as possible. Call (503) 433-8285 for a free consultation about an accusation, investigation, or charge.
Oregon Sexual Abuse Charges by Degree
Oregon recognizes three degrees of sexual abuse. Each has different statutory elements, so the prosecution must prove the conduct and circumstances required for the particular charge rather than relying on the accusation alone.
First-Degree Charges
First-degree sexual abuse may involve alleged sexual contact with a person under 14. It also covers allegations involving forcible compulsion or a person allegedly incapable of consent because of mental incapacitation or physical helplessness. The offense is a Class B felony.
A conviction carries a minimum sentence of six years and three months of incarceration under Measure 11. Measure 11 is Oregon’s mandatory-minimum sentencing law for designated offenses, and this minimum can’t be reduced.
Second-Degree Charges
The second degree involves alleged sexual intercourse, deviate sexual intercourse, or penetration without consent. It can also apply to qualifying conduct involving a coach or teacher who’s at least 21 and a student. The offense is a Class C felony.
Third-Degree Charges
The third degree involves alleged sexual contact without consent. It can also apply when the person is allegedly incapable of consent because they’re under 18. This charge is a Class A misdemeanor.
Building a Defense Around the Evidence
Our defense begins with the accusation and the elements prosecutors must establish. We examine how the evidence was obtained, what it shows, and whether it supports the charged degree.
Our review may address:
- The wording, timing, and consistency of statements
- Messages or other digital communications connected to the allegation
- Physical and forensic evidence presented by the prosecution
- Witness accounts and potential inconsistencies
- Consent, age, capacity, alleged force, and the relationship involved
We challenge the prosecution’s evidence and strategy when the facts and law support doing so. When analysis is appropriate, we collaborate with forensic professionals to evaluate technical evidence. Our approach reflects the circumstances of the client and the allegation.
Representation Through the Criminal Court Process
A case may progress through arrest or citation, arraignment, pretrial proceedings, negotiations, and trial. At arraignment, the charge is formally presented and the accused enters a plea. The course of the case depends on the charge, evidence, procedural history, and decisions made along the way.
We advise clients at each applicable stage and prepare for the legal challenges ahead. When appropriate, we pursue plea negotiations or reduced sentencing while continuing to evaluate the prosecution’s case. We provide diligent, assertive representation grounded in the available evidence.
Start with a Confidential Defense Consultation
Contact us by phone or through the contact form to request a free consultation. Spanish-language translation services are available for cases handled in Spanish, and we offer payment plans. We can discuss specific arrangements during the consultation.
Get a focused review of the accusation and your next steps. Call (503) 433-8285 to speak with our sexual abuse lawyer serving Portland.
what our clients have to say
Passionate and Dedicated to Providing the Most Favorable Outcome Possible
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"I couldn't have been happier with his devotion and work ethic."I contacted Rob on short notice for a traffic offense. He was always very quick to respond with any questions I had leading up to my court date and was very reassuring. He kept me informed every step of the way and was confident and professional throughout. I couldn't have been happier with his devotion and work ethic. I highly recommend Rob.- Jen
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"Rob Cleland was the best thing that could have happened!"I received a felony DUI during a relapse after 10 years of recovery. When I got sober, I was staying with a friend whose life was severely effected because of having a felony on his record. He kindly offered to pay part of the legal fee to see Rob Cleland and that was the best thing that could have happened!
Rob worked tirelessly to get me diversion even though it wasn't an option due to missed court dates. Then, instead of judging me, he helped me to renew my diversion when I wasn't able to complete it the first time due to relapses. All throughout the process, Rob showed endless compassion and understanding at a time that I needed it the most. I am so grateful to my friend and to rob for their amazing help.
I have recommended friends to Rob Cleland and will continue to do so.- Satia -
"Robert Cleland is the best of all of them."Robert Cleland is the best of all of them.- R. L.
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"Robert Cleland is honest, respectable, and sincere."Though my case never ending up going to court and Robert did not end up having to represent me (my ex wife dropped charges) he had taken time out of his busy schedule to meet with me and discuss what my possible options were. Being not very knowledgeable when pertaining to child custody issues I really had no idea of what to do or who to talk to in order to resolve my dilemma as quickly as possible. Though after contacting him and finding out that he does not do child custody/ divorce matters he still offered to sit down with me and hear what I had to say. Robert listened to my situation, I explained how my ex wanted sole custody of my daughter and that I had just been served with papers. He recommend me to two different people he personally sought fit to best to represent me based on the information we had discussed. One Robert explained was quite a bit more expensive than the other but had over ten years of experience and the other though still very competent and professional charged less but had slightly less experience. Robert Cleland is honest, respectable, and sincere. I know that if I have any criminal defense, will, or personal injury related matters I know who to contact.- Brent
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"Might as well put a halo on this guy."Words can’t even describe how honest, loyal, friendly, caring, and genuine this guy is. And if I tried I’d be here typing for a very long time. Their is absolutely nothing better that he could’ve done. The feeling I always got from Rob is that it’s not just your case. When he’s up their fighting for you; you get the feeling from him that he’s almost fighting for his own freedom and not just yours. And that if it goes wrong then he’s the one suffering the consequences. That’s when I knew that I could put everything in his hands and he wouldn’t let me down. As a result I was walking a free man and it only took the jury 15 min to come with a verdict. Rob is not only an extraordinary, amazing person and lawyer. But he has turned into one of my best friends, and no matter what you can’t put a price on any of that. Might as well put a halo on this guy. If anyone would like to know my story. Give him a call, he’s be more than happy to tell ya. Love you brother.- Russell
