Scott W. Johnson

Scott W. Johnson is a Washington criminal defense lawyer at Johnson & Orr, with 28 years of experience in criminal law. He is known for handling high-profile cases and defending clients against serious charges. His work includes matters involving DUI, white-collar theft, kidnapping, rape, murder, and other complex allegations. He also handles selected civil litigation, bringing trial experience, crisis response, and direct client access to challenging legal situations in Eastern Washington courts and communities.

Scott graduated from the University of Baltimore with his J.D. in 1997, according to a supporting attorney profile. He also earned his B.A. from Pacific Lutheran University in 1994. This education supports his work in legal analysis, courtroom advocacy, appellate writing, negotiation, and client counseling for criminal defense matters, civil disputes, appeals, and cases requiring strong preparation, judgment, and clear communication for active clients statewide each day.

Scott began his career as a deputy prosecutor with the Benton County Prosecutor’s Office in 1997. He worked in District Court, Juvenile Court, and Superior Court, later serving as Chief Juvenile Court Deputy and Chief Deputy of the criminal division. He argued extensively in Division III of the Washington State Court of Appeals and before the Washington State Supreme Court, building strong appellate experience in demanding criminal cases and hearings.

Scott W. Johnson entered private practice in 2009 after more than 12 years of public service. He has tried more than 200 jury trials, handled countless bench trials, secured not guilty findings in serious cases, and obtained hundreds of thousands of dollars in civil awards and settlements. Clients facing criminal charges or complex disputes can rely on Scott for prepared, accessible, and direct legal advocacy throughout Washington courts.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Johnson & Orr
• Member, Washington State Bar Association
• Member, Washington Defender Association
• Member, Benton Franklin County Bar Association

Licensed State

• Washington

Education

• University of Baltimore
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Pacific Lutheran University
  Bachelor of Arts

Awards & Badges