PORTLAND, Ore. – Janet Hoffman & Associates, one of Oregon’s best and longest-serving criminal defense law firms, announced today it is adding Christopher Heywood and Justin Rusk as shareholders and changing its name to Hoffman Law.
The new shareholders and new name signal the start of a new chapter for the firm, which has built a strong record of success defending the most serious and complex criminal cases across Oregon. Janet Hoffman, who founded her private practice in 1981, is bringing in Heywood and Rusk as shareholders to expand the firm’s talent, reach and reputation. Hoffman Law is comprised of a team of six attorneys and three professional staff. Janet Hoffman will continue as the founding shareholder.
“Chris and Justin are both exceptional defense attorneys with different areas of expertise who will help build a dynamic future for the firm,” Hoffman said. “This is an opportunity for us to grow the firm together as we represent the most challenging criminal cases of all varieties.”
The Hoffman Law team is known for their creative defenses that balance the facts and the law to get the best possible results for their clients. They represent individuals and companies facing serious criminal allegations, including white collar and corporate fraud, environmental offenses, violent crimes, corruption and sex crimes in state and federal court.
“I took this step because of the complementary skills Chris and Justin bring to the firm and the growth we can accomplish by working together,” Hoffman said. “As a team, we have a special mix of experience and expertise that enables us to provide exceptional advocacy in the toughest cases.”
“We stand firm for what we believe in, and we don’t back down easily,” she added. “We want to be right. We’re extremely thorough. And we don’t take any shortcuts because there are no quick and dirty answers to complex problems.”
Heywood joined Hoffman Law in 2021 after several years as a prosecutor. He is a gifted trial lawyer who handles serious criminal cases throughout Oregon. He has been recognized in the top “40 Under 40” for criminal defense by National Trial Lawyers and as a “Rising Star” by Super Lawyers.
“I am thrilled to join the firm as a shareholder,” Heywood said. “We have a vision for growing the firm and building on the formidable reputation Janet has earned for more than 40 years.”
Rusk, a former federal career clerk for the district of Nevada, was responsible for handling the court’s most complex cases, a role he’s continued since joining Hoffman Law in 2018. He specializes in white-collar criminal and regulatory matters. In 2021, he was nominated to “Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch” in criminal defense.
About Hoffman Law
Hoffman Law is a top-rated criminal defense firm in Portland, Oregon that represents a wide range of clients, including individuals, lawyers, law firms, elected officials, municipal corporations, and local, national and multi-national corporations in all types of complex cases. We advocate for our clients with discipline and determination, and we are widely recognized for the quality and effectiveness of our work. Hoffman Law is committed to working to obtain the best possible result. For more information visit www.hoffmanlawpnw.com.