Circumstances and Behavior in An Oregon Criminal Set-Aside

Criminal Set-Aside Services in Oregon Oregon’s criminal set-aside statute (ORS 137.225) was recently amended in 2022 to further favor granting expungements for eligible applicants. Should an individual meet the basic eligibility criteria (e.g. enough time has passed and they “fully complied with and performed the sentence” per ORS 137.225(1)(a)), The court “shall grant” the motion…

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Guidelines for Writing Letters of Support

Letters of support play a vital role in rights restoration cases by providing the court, district attorney, or sheriff with insight into the character and rehabilitation of the applicant. Below are key points to include and general advice for writing an effective letter: 1. Keep It Concise and Meaningful Focus on quality over quantity. Aim…

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Guidelines for Writing Your Self-Statement of Rehabilitation

When preparing your self-statement of rehabilitation to submit to the court, focus on demonstrating your accountability, personal growth, and the positive changes you’ve made in your life since your criminal past. This statement is your opportunity to show the court why you are deserving of having your rights restored. Below are key points to include…

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December 2024 Update on Oregon State Police Firearms Issue with Expunged Cases

Several months ago, the Oregon State Police suddenly began denying firearm purchases for people who had expunged convictions that were once disqualifying. We contend that this is an illegal action by Oregon State Police. Many of these people had been making firearm purchases successfully for years prior to this sudden change in policy. The change…

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Civil Rights Restoration

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Civil rights are often taken for granted, but what are they? At their simplest level, they are the basic rights of citizens, which, if infringed upon, can give rise to a legal remedy. More concretely, they’re the things you can do as a member of society, such as the right to participate in society via…

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Navigating Open Arrests and Firearm Purchase Delays in Oregon

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When navigating the world of firearm purchases, one might come across unexpected roadblocks that can create frustrating delays. In Oregon, one such obstacle is known as an ‘open arrest.’ This situation can be especially problematic when it causes delays in the purchase of firearms. What is an Open Arrest? An open arrest occurs when a…

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Top Ten Reasons to Expunge your Criminal Record

Man Holding No Record

Cleaning up your criminal record offers many opportunities, in many areas of your life.    1. Adoption/Foster care  A criminal record can bring plans to adopt or foster a child to a screeching halt. State laws prohibit a person from adopting or fostering a child if they have been convicted of certain offenses – but…

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The Value of an Expungement Order

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The value in setting aside your criminal record is difficult to quantify, but the rewards are undeniable. When it comes to getting your criminal record cleaned up, or “set aside” (while not technically correct, the common term here in Oregon is “expunged”), there are a few ways to do it – and there are more…

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Do Oregon Background Checks Show Out of State Convictions?

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In Oregon, background checks are done by most employers to ensure that the person they’re hiring wasn’t convicted of a criminal offense before or doesn’t have a warrant out for their name. It’s a part of everyday life to fulfill your basic needs. So whether you’re applying for work or looking for housing, you must…

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Can I Teach With a Felony Conviction In Oregon? 

Teacher in Classroom

Like many other states, Oregon is experiencing a teacher shortage. With schools struggling to hire and retain qualified people to educate our kids, it may seem like the perfect time to pursue a teaching career. But, the staffing issues at many Oregon schools haven’t changed the state licensing requirements, which can be quite stringent.  In…

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Expungement and Rights Restoration Lawyers in Pendleton, Oregon

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When you’re convicted of a crime, there are a number of consequences. In addition to whatever sentence you must serve, your personal criminal record is updated to include your conviction.  Depending on the crime, it may stay on your record forever. It can cost you access to certain rights, such as the right to own…

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How Do Background Checks Work in Oregon?

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From renting an apartment to securing employment, background checks are a part of everyday life. However, if you have a negative mark on your background, you could have trouble even meeting the most basic needs. If you have wondered how a modern background check works in the state of Oregon and what you can do…

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Buying a Gun with a Criminal Record in Oregon

Hunter in camouflage aiming a rifle with a scope in the forest

The right to bear arms is enshrined in the U.S. Constitution. This right is reiterated in the Oregon Constitution as well. In the aftermath of certain criminal offenses, however, these rights may be suspended or revoked. Adults in Oregon who wish to buy firearms are forbidden from doing so if they have been convicted of…

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The Ultimate Guide to Owning a Firearm in Oregon

Woman in red gear aiming a shotgun during clay target shooting outdoors

Table of Contents Toggle What Types of Firearms Can I Own?Purchasing a Gun in OregonHow and Where You May Use FirearmsConcealed Carry in OregonOpen Carry in OregonDischarging a Firearm in OregonPointing a GunSelf-Defense with a Firearm in OregonWho Can Possess a Firearm in Oregon?Who Cannot Own or Use a Firearm?What If I Own a Gun…

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