Navigating the Criminal Justice System
Facing criminal charges anywhere in Oregon can be one of the most stressful experiences of your life — but when those charges are filed in Washington County, you are not alone. Our experienced criminal defense team has deep knowledge of the Washington County Circuit Court, the local District Attorney’s Office, the Washington County Jail, and the unique procedures that govern every case in Hillsboro.
This page walks you through the typical progression of a criminal case from investigation and arrest through trial, sentencing, and appeal. While every case is unique and timelines can vary, understanding these stages helps you know what to expect and how we protect your rights at each turn.
Important: This is general information only and not legal advice. The best way to protect your future is to contact us immediately for a confidential consultation.
Your Step-by-Step Guide
1. Police Investigation
The process usually begins when law enforcement (Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Hillsboro Police, Beaverton Police, Tigard Police, Tualatin Police, or another agency) investigates a reported crime. If officers believe they have probable cause, they may arrest you. At the moment of arrest you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Anything you say can be used against you. We can often intervene early — contacting investigators, preserving evidence, or negotiating with police before formal charges are filed.
2. Arrest and Booking
If you are taken into custody, you will be transported to the Washington County Jail at the Law Enforcement Center. Booking involves fingerprinting, photographing, recording personal information, and entering you into the jail system. You may be eligible for release pending your first court date through recognizance (no money), posting security (bail), or released to a court approved responsible third-party. Our team works quickly to secure your release, argue for reasonable bail conditions, and begin building your defense while you are out of custody.
3. Arraignment
Your first court appearance — the Arraignment — is usually held at the Law Enforcement Center (LEC) courtroom in Hillsboro.
Out of custody Arraignments are generally held at 8:30 a.m. a few weeks after your arrest. If you are held in custody, your Arraignment will usually occur at 2:00 p.m. the next business day after your arrest. At the Arraignment the Judge will:
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Read the charges filed by the Washington County District Attorney’s Office,
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Advise you of your rights,
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Ask for your plea (we almost always enter “not guilty” at this stage to preserve all options), and
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Set future court dates.
If you are financially eligible, the court will appoint counsel or allow time to hire private counsel. In a limited number of cases, early resolution may be possible at arraignment. We stand beside you, explain every option, protect your rights, and often negotiate immediate release or favorable conditions.
4. Discovery
After Arraignment, the State is required to turn over all evidence in its possession — police reports, witness statements, videos, lab results, and any exculpatory (favorable) evidence. Your attorney meticulously reviews every page and item of discovery. We identify weaknesses in the State’s case, locate missing evidence, and request additional materials when necessary. Strong discovery review is often the foundation for successful motions or favorable plea negotiations.
5. Plea Negotiations
Approximately 95% of criminal cases in Washington County resolve through negotiations rather than trial. After Arraignment (and, for felonies, after a Preliminary Hearing or Grand Jury), the case typically moves to an Initial Appearance. This is where the Deputy District Attorney usually makes a formal plea offer. We evaluate every offer against the strengths and weaknesses of the evidence, your criminal history, and your personal goals. Our seasoned attorney frequently secures charge reductions, dismissals of some counts, or sentencing recommendations that keep clients out of prison or avoid long-term collateral consequences.
6. Pre-Trial Hearings
Before trial, the court holds one or more pre-trial hearings (often called Status Hearings, Case Management Conferences, or Trial Readiness Hearings). These keep the case on track, address scheduling, and give us additional opportunities to resolve the matter or narrow the issues for trial. We use these hearings to keep pressure on the State and protect your speedy-trial rights.
7. Motions
Throughout the pre-trial phase we file strategic motions — requests asking the judge to:
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Suppress illegally obtained evidence,
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Dismiss charges for lack of probable cause or other legal defects,
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Limit certain testimony, or
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Sever counts for separate trials.
Successful motions can dramatically change or even end a case. Our attorneys have a proven track record of winning critical pre-trial motions in Washington County Circuit Court.
8. Trial
If a fair plea offer cannot be reached, we prepare for trial. You have the constitutional right to a jury trial (or you may choose a bench trial before a judge alone). At trial the State must prove every element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. We cross-examine witnesses, present defense evidence and witnesses, and deliver powerful closing arguments. We are familiar with the local judges and prosecutors — knowledge that matters in the Washington County Courthouse.
9. Sentencing
If you are convicted — whether by plea or trial verdict — a separate sentencing hearing is scheduled. The judge determines the sentence within the limits set by Oregon law and the Sentencing Guidelines Grid, considering your criminal history and other factors. Possible outcomes include jail or prison time, probation through Washington County Community Corrections, treatment programs, community service, restitution, fines, or a combination. We present compelling mitigation evidence, character letters, and alternative sentencing plans to advocate for the least restrictive and most rehabilitative outcome possible.
10. Appeals
If you are convicted, you have the right to appeal to the Oregon Court of Appeals (and in some cases the Oregon Supreme Court). Appeals focus on legal errors made during the trial or sentencing. We work with trusted appellate specialists to challenge convictions and sentences. Many clients regain their freedom or significantly improve their situation on appeal.
Note: Timelines and specific legal stages vary significantly based on the nature of the charges and the specific Oregon county jurisdiction. This information is provided for general educational purposes only.
Case Evaluation
Do I have to talk to the police?
You have a constitutional right to remain silent. It is almost always in your best interest to politely decline to answer questions and state that you wish to speak with an attorney first.
Will I have to go to jail?
The outcome depends on the specific charges and circumstances. Our goal is always to pursue the best possible resolution, which may involve seeking alternatives to incarceration or a dismissal.
What happens at my first court date?
At the initial hearing, the court ensures you have legal counsel and establishes a timeline for future proceedings. We will be there to guide you through every moment and answer your questions.
What is a plea deal?
A plea deal is an agreement where the prosecution offers a reduced charge or sentence in exchange for a guilty plea. We carefully evaluate every offer to ensure it is in your best interest.
Will this go on my record forever?
Many convictions or arrests in Oregon can eventually be set aside or expunged. We work with clients to minimize the long-term impact on their record and future opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Every case is unique. The information provided here is for general guidance only and should not be substituted for legal advice for your specific situation.
What should I do after I’ve been arrested?
Stay calm and avoid discussing the details of your situation with anyone except your lawyer. Contact Prodigal Law immediately so we can begin protecting your rights from the very start.
What is an arraignment?
This is your first formal appearance where charges are read and a plea is usually entered. It is a critical step where we can often address release conditions or bail.
Do I really need a lawyer if I’m innocent?
Yes. The legal system is complex, and an attorney is essential to ensure evidence is properly presented and your rights are protected against procedural errors or unfair practices.
How long will my case take?
Timelines vary significantly based on the severity of the charges and the court's schedule. While some cases resolve in weeks, others can take many months. Constant communication is our priority.
How much will this cost and do you offer payment plans?
Legal fees depend on the complexity of your case. We provide transparent pricing and offer flexible payment options through partners like LawPay and Affirm to make quality defense accessible.
Talk to Prodigal Law About Your Case
If you still have questions or are feeling overwhelmed by the legal process, we are here to help. Reach out today to schedule a personal consultation and start building your defense with a dedicated Oregon attorney.
Disclaimer: Contacting Prodigal Law does not create an attorney–client relationship until a formal agreement is reached and signed in writing.