Criminal Defense
Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer in Southern Oregon
Matt is an experienced criminal defense lawyer that represents clients in Southern Oregon who are under criminal investigation or facing criminal charges in municipal, state, and federal courts. Matt understands the stress involved in confronting criminal charges and provides each of his clients with the legal precision and skill necessary to deliver customized solutions for their unique circumstances.
Matt focuses on mitigating each of his client’s risks — inside and outside the courtroom. He understands that his clients’ livelihoods and, often, their very freedom, are at stake, and it is up to him to provide both real-time legal solutions and long-term legal strategies that produce results. Matt is trial-tested and always trial ready. If trial is the best course of action, he will fight for his client’s freedom using his legal knowledge and skills in the courtroom.
Though Matt is not afraid of a fight, he believes an intelligent criminal defense strategy does not always require an aggressive approach. It demands a precisely developed persuasive argument to overcome legal obstacles to reach each of his client’s goals. Words are the true weapons inside the courtroom and have a far greater effect in changing people’s opinions — including those who sit on the jury.
Types of Cases
Matthew Rowan Law is a full-service criminal defense law firm dedicated to delivering quality legal representation for clients charged with any Federal or Oregon crimes. Matt resolves legal issues for his clients in the following criminal law practice areas:
- Cybercrimes
- Drug crimes
- Domestic violence crimes
- DUI / DWI
- Forfeiture proceedings
- Felonies (major and minor)
- Measure 11 crimes
- Misdemeanors
- Sex offenses
- White-collar crimes
Common Crimes Represented
Our Services
- Providing counsel to individuals under criminal investigation
- Attending all court appearances
- Drafting, filing, and arguing pre-trial motions with the court
- Negotiating plea arrangements with the district attorneys / assistant U.S. attorneys
- Trial advocacy
Five Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if there is a warrant for my arrest in Oregon?
If there is a warrant for your arrest in Oregon, contact Matt in Medford today to review the circumstances that led to the warrant, its details, and a proper defense strategy to respond to the court order authorizing law enforcement to make your arrest.
What should I do if I am falsely accused of a crime in Oregon?
Unfortunately, false accusations are not uncommon and require more than “the truth to set you free.” Most people believe that if they “didn’t do anything” the charges will not move forward. That is simply not true. Often, allegations are met with an arrest and the district attorney’s office will pursue charges, unless or until the defendant can prove his or her innocence. Although our Oregon citizens are owed the presumption of innocence, which means that a person is innocent until proven guilty, the court of public opinion often proves the opposite is true. Matt can help you tell your side of the story and protect your rights from the beginning, so you are, in fact, innocent until proven otherwise.
Do I have to speak with the police during an investigation or after an arrest?
No. And you should not. You have the right to remain silent as well as the right to an attorney. The U.S. Constitution, along with state, and federal laws, do not require an individual who has been arrested to speak to the authorities, except for providing basic information about their identity. Many also believe that they can simply “explain what happened” to law enforcement to make things better. This is approach is misguided. The decision of whether to speak to the police is a very important one and it should be evaluated by a skilled Oregon criminal defense attorney before agreeing to an interview with either the police or the district attorney’s office.
Do I have to return to court if I am released on bail in Oregon?
Bail is the money deposited with the court that secures a release from jail and is set to ensure the accused will be present for future court appearances. Once bail is set — based on the defendant’s charges, criminal history, or any prior record of not appearing to the court, among other important factors — the court generally establishes a hearing date for the case. You will be required to appear before the court at that time unless otherwise directed. Hiring a qualified attorney such as Matt can often, but not always, relieve you of having to making a personal appearance at some court appearances if you remain in good contact with your attorney.
Why do I need an Oregon criminal defense attorney?
If you have been charged with a crime in Oregon, all areas of your life, including your personal, professional, and social obligations and reputation, may be significantly impacted going forward. It is vital that the criminal matter be addressed properly to minimize the potential negative consequences, which means representing yourself is never a good idea. Matt will outline your case to pursue the best outcome based on your unique needs. At Matthew Rowan Law, we know the law and provide intelligent and precise legal solutions for each client we represent so together we can minimize any criminal penalties inside or outside the courtroom.
Matthew Rowan Law
219 S. Holly St.
Medford, OR 97501