Metropolitan Public Defender - Hillsboro, OR

Dedicated Public Defense and Community Legal Services in Hillsboro

Established in 1971, Metropolitan Public Defender is Oregon's leading nonprofit defense firm dedicated to equal justice. Operating in Washington and Multnomah counties, the Hillsboro office delivers zealous, trial-tested advocacy for individuals facing criminal charges. Whether clients need court-appointed counsel or community legal assistance, experienced defense lawyers safeguard vital rights against state power.

With decades of institutional courtroom experience, Metropolitan Public Defender is renowned for holistic legal advocacy that addresses root causes rather than just case dockets. Staffed by trial attorneys, social workers, case managers, and investigators, the Hillsboro team collaborates to secure optimal legal resolutions while supporting housing stability, addiction recovery, and mental wellness. When people need to find an attorney who cares deeply about their community and future, Metropolitan Public Defender provides an unwavering defense in Washington County Circuit Court.

Core Legal Practice and Defense Divisions

Metropolitan Public Defender represents thousands of Oregonians across an extensive range of trial-level and civil administrative matters. Specialized practice areas include:

• criminal defense: Zealous trial and appellate representation for individuals facing misdemeanor and major felony charges, conducting comprehensive independent investigations and aggressive pretrial motion advocacy.
• dui/dwi defense: Thorough defense against driving under the influence of intoxicants allegations, challenging traffic stops, blood alcohol tests, and assisting eligible clients with diversion program entry.
• drug crime defense: Assertive defense against state drug allegations, leveraging specialty treatment dockets, recovery programs, and constitutional Fourth Amendment suppressions.
• violent crime defense: Formidable courtroom advocacy in high-stakes felony trials, including assault, domestic violence disputes, and Measure 11 offenses requiring strategic jury presentation.
• theft and burglary defense: Protecting clients accused of property crimes, residential burglary, motor vehicle theft, and financial offenses.
• traffic ticket defense: Resolving traffic violations, driving with suspended licenses, and protecting client driving privileges.
• deportation defense: Defending immigrant community members through Immigrant Defense Oregon, preventing deportation and handling complex criminal-immigration intersections.
• family immigration: Guiding immigrant families through humanitarian relief, asylum applications, and protective status procedures.

Holistic Defense and the Community Law Division

Beyond courtroom defense, Metropolitan Public Defender champions life-changing barrier reduction through its innovative Community Law Division. The firm assists community members with expunging criminal records, reducing eligible felonies to misdemeanors, resolving outstanding warrants, and eliminating debt related to court fines and fees. In addition, the firm provides crucial civil legal services, including eviction prevention, tenant advocacy, and family safety orders, empowering individuals to overcome past justice involvement and achieve lasting stability.

Accessible Legal Advocacy in the Heart of Hillsboro

Located at 400 East Main Street in downtown Hillsboro, just steps from the Washington County Circuit Court and the Hillsboro Central MAX transit station, Metropolitan Public Defender provides accessible and bilingual legal support. Backed by dedicated bilingual professionals who deliver services in English and Spanish, the office ensures equitable communication at every stage of the legal journey. If you need court-appointed counsel or qualify for community legal defense services, Metropolitan Public Defender is your trusted advocate for fairness and justice in Oregon.