About
Erik Nicholson is a criminal defense lawyer and partner at The Law Offices of Erik Nicholson, with 15 years of Oregon courtroom experience. He represents people facing DUI charges, motor vehicle offenses, misdemeanors, felonies, and complex criminal matters. His work focuses on clear strategy, strong advocacy, and practical guidance during stressful cases. Erik has built a reputation in the Portland metro area for being aggressive, prepared, and effective. He helps clients understand the process, protect their rights, and pursue the best possible result available under the case facts involved.
Erik earned his B.A. from Oregon State University before completing his J.D. at Golden Gate University School of Law in San Francisco. He finished near the top of his class, showing strong academic discipline before entering criminal practice. He is licensed to practice in all Oregon and California state courts. His education gave him a legal foundation for courtroom work, motion practice, negotiation, and trial preparation. He applies that training to help clients face criminal charges with confidence and clear direction.
Erik has defended thousands of clients in cases ranging from petty misdemeanors to serious felonies. His legal career includes extensive work in DUI defense, traffic-related crimes, and complex criminal issues. He studies each case closely before deciding whether to fight, negotiate, or seek another path. He knows that every client brings different facts, risks, and goals. He works directly with clients so they understand their options, the likely challenges, and the possible outcomes before important decisions are made.
Erik Nicholson focuses his criminal defense practice in Washington, Clackamas, and Yamhill County, along with local municipal courts in Beaverton, West Linn, Lake Oswego, Gladstone, and Oregon City. He helps people move through the justice system with less confusion and fear. His approach combines courtroom experience, direct communication, and careful case analysis. Erik works to reduce the burden on clients while protecting their rights at every stage of a criminal defense matter with steady, professional legal guidance and trusted defense support.
Law Office Affiliations
- Partner, The Law Offices of Erik Nicholson
- Member, Oregon State Bar
- Member, State Bar of California
- Member, Oregon Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
- Member, Washington County Bar Association
- Member, The National Trial Lawyers, Top 40 Under 40
- Member, The National Trial Lawyers, Top 100
Licensed State
- California
- Oregon
Education
- Golden Gate University School of Law
Juris Doctor (JD) - Oregon State University
Bachelor of Arts
Awards & Badges






- Drug Crime
- DUI & DWI
- Expungement
- Sex Crimes
- Violent Crime




