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Oregon Court Dismisses Charges Without Timely Defense Counsel

2/5/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Oregon Supreme Court ruled that charges must be dismissed if a defendant lacks counsel for 60 days in misdemeanor or 90 days in felony after first appearance.
The ruling stems from Allen Rex Roberts (defendant), whose charges were dismissed due to the state's failure to provide counsel.
The Oregon Department of Justice is reviewing the ruling.
Ken Sanchagrin, new head of Oregon's public defense commission, has reduced unrepresented individuals by 32%.

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Story summary

The Oregon Supreme Court ruled that charges must be dismissed if a defendant lacks counsel for 60 days in misdemeanor or 90 days in felony after first appearance.
The ruling stems from Allen Rex Roberts (defendant), whose charges were dismissed due to the state's failure to provide counsel.
The Oregon Department of Justice is reviewing the ruling.
Ken Sanchagrin, new head of Oregon's public defense commission, has reduced unrepresented individuals by 32%.