Wildlife Criminal Defense in Oregon
If you’ve been cited or arrested for a wildlife offense in Oregon, not just any criminal defense lawyer will do. Wildlife laws are complex, highly specific, and frequently updated, and many attorneys choose not to handle these cases at all. At Gunn & Gunn, we’ve been defending clients in wildlife criminal cases for over 35 years, and we take these charges seriously.
Oregon’s Wildlife Enforcement Is No Joke
Oregon is a premier destination for sport hunting and fishing. From trophy elk in the Coast Range and Blue Mountains to massive sturgeon in the Columbia River and year-round salmon and steelhead runs, the state draws outdoor enthusiasts from across the country.
But what many don’t realize is that Oregon also has some of the most aggressive wildlife enforcement in the nation. The Oregon State Police (OSP) and Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) conduct elaborate sting operations, including:
- Deer and elk decoys placed statewide
- Undercover fishing troopers on coastal rivers
- Search warrants targeting drones and thermal imaging devices used for scouting game
These operations often ensnare both seasoned and novice sportsmen—sometimes due to honest mistakes or misunderstandings of Oregon’s intricate wildlife regulations.
Why Choose Gunn & Gunn?
We defend clients facing misdemeanor and felony wildlife charges in every court in Oregon. Whether you’re accused of unlawful take, tag violations, or hunting out of season, we’re ready to protect your rights.
Hire a GUNN for your wildlife case. Call us today at 503.362.4866.
Wildlife Offense FAQ
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It depends. Wildlife offenses in Oregon can be:
- • Violations (like traffic tickets)
- • Misdemeanors
- • Felonies
Under ORS 496.992, most violations without criminal intent are classified from Class D to Class A violations. However, if the offense is committed with criminal intent, it becomes a Class A misdemeanor. Multiple offenses with intent can escalate to a Class C felony.
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If your license and tags are still valid, you may continue to hunt or fish until the court orders otherwise. However, after your first court appearance, many judges will restrict hunting or fishing while your case is pending.
Upon conviction, license suspensions typically follow this pattern:
- • 3 years for a first offense
- • 5 years for a second offense
Permanent revocation for a third or subsequent offense
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Yes, with conditions. If the court only revokes your hunting license, you may still be eligible to purchase a fishing or shellfish license. However, ODFW will not issue any license if you owe fines, compensatory damages, or restitution from the hunting offense.
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Yes. Under ORS 137.225, most wildlife offenses are eligible for expungement after a waiting period:
- • 3 years for misdemeanors
- • 5 years for Class C felonies
You must have completed your sentence and not have any new convictions during the waiting period.
See our page about Expungements.
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- • Misdemeanor: You won’t lose your gun rights, but your concealed handgun license (CHL) will be revoked. You may also be denied firearm purchases while on probation.
- • Felony: You will lose your gun rights. However, you may petition for restoration after expungement or under ORS 166.274.
See our page about Gun Rights.
A recent 2025 Oregon Court of Appeals decision confirmed that expungement under ORS 137.225 fully restores firearm rights, though some background check systems may still flag the record.