Drunk Driving / DUII*

The most common charge in criminal law, the very allegation of  driving under the influence can have devastating consequences. With the legalization of marijuana, law enforcement focus on DUII investigations has greatly increased.  In over 20 years of practice, Brian Starns has handled thousands of DUIIs, and has successfully defended individuals in the Gorge and throughout Oregon.

*Alcohol &controlled substances

Shoplifting / Theft / Identification Theft

On its face, an allegation of theft may not seem too serious.  However, Oregon has serious consequences for property crimes, especially if you have prior property crime convictions. What once resulted in probation can now send you to prison.  Property crimes require an attorney that understands not only the underlying charge, but the necessary challenges to both prior convictions and potential sentencing issues. Brian Starns has handled countless property crime cases in his 20+ years in the Gorge, and knows how to navigate this complex subject.

Domestic Violence / Assault

Domestic violence (DV) arrests cut across the full spectrum of society.  Unfortunately, the effects of such an allegation cut a far greater swath than the criminal charge itself:  child custody, marital assets, even gun rights can be irreparably harmed by a DV conviction. This is an emotional and strategically difficult area of the law to navigate, one that demands an experienced attorney.  Brian Starns has represented defendants (both men and women) accused of DV, and understands that such a charge requires a multi-faceted approach that considers all potential impacts such an allegation can cause.

Measure 11 cases

Since being passed as a ballot initiative in 1994  Measure 11 is a specific class of crimes that have serious and mandatory sentences.  The fear of such charges oftentimes results in a defendant compromising to avoid a lengthy prison sentence, even if he or she were innocent.  Brian Starns represented the first Measure 11 case in Hood River county, and is the only attorney in the Gorge to win a Measure 11 jury trial with 2 seperate “victims.”  

White Collar Crimes

Unlike many other areas of criminal law, white collar crimes often involve individuals who have never been involved with the police and courts.  Oftentimes, such cases require a firm understanding of business principles such as accounting, bookkeeping and banking systems. Believe it or not, such allegations have occurred in the Gorge, and Brian Starns has represented many individuals facing felony white-collar crimes.

DRUG CHARGES

Oregon’s legalization of marijuana may have created protection for the usual user, but has spurned an enhanced law enforcement response to other drugs. On its face, drug possession seems rather simple, but that is far from the truth.  Drug charges, if they are to be properly defended, demands an attorney who understands personal protections under both the United States and Oregon Constitutions. Brian Starns has successfully argued for judges to hold police accountable for illegal searches and seizures, and protecting individual liberties.

Minor in Possession

While not a criminal charge, a conviction for minor in possession can have unforeseen, serious consequences.  The most important consideration is your driver’s license: Oregon law requires a mandatory 1 year license suspension for an MIP, even if your case did not involve a car.  And since it is not a criminal matter, you do not have the right to have a court-appointed attorney. Brian Starns has used numerous creative approaches to avoid the license suspension.  If you or someone you love got an MIP, don’t go it alone- call Brian Starns.