Charles Williamson
With more than 30 years of experience in litigation, mediation, and arbitration, Charlie Williamson rarely backs down from a challenge. And like any experienced lawyer, he knows the key to resolving disputes is preparation.
"I start by getting as much information as possible," he says. "We're a service business, which means communication is vital. Our goals are to be responsive and produce results."
The one-time elected official and Oregon Legal Aid lawyer rarely has problems delivering results. He co-founded the School of Professional Psychology at Pacific University, and later helped manage the region's growth as a Metro councilor. His litigation and mediation practice ranges widely from civil litigation, government relations, and bankruptcy work to handling personal injury and medical malpractice claims. Through it all, Charlie's pragmatic yet driven approach has won him acclaim in both the legal and public service fields.
This is Charlie's second stint with Kell, Alterman & Runstein—the first lasting from 1974 to 1978, and the second starting in 1988. In the interim, Charlie ran his own practice and served six years at Metro. He's since distanced himself from electoral politics, though he still lobbies on behalf of choice causes. He's also a fundraiser for Oregon Legal Services, the legal assistance program for low-income individuals.
Charlie's downtime affords him additional recognition as the guitar player for a local bluegrass band. He takes occasional turns before the microphone, and has even performed at the Oregon Bar Convention as a member of the Negotiable Instruments. A Massachusetts native, he's also basking in the glow of recent Red Sox and Patriots triumphs after 50 years of sustained suffering. Passersby will note the faraway smile that graces Charlie's face on most days, which is expected to last at least until next season.
Professional and civic activities
Oregon State Bar, President, 2003
American Bar Association, Section of Dispute Resolution
American Judicature Society
American Bankruptcy Institute
Oregon Trial Lawyers Association
Oregon Mediation Association
Oregon State Bar: Alternative Dispute Resolution, Litigation, Business and Corporation, Debtor-Creditor, Estate Planning, Construction Law, Health Law, Government Law, Labor and Employment, and Real Estate & Land Use Sections
Metropolitan Service District Council, Former Councilor
School of Professional Psychology, Pacific University, Co-Founder and Former Chairman of the Board of Advisors
Suffolk Law Review, Editorial Staff
Admitted to practice
Oregon
Massachusetts
U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit
U.S. Supreme Court
Education
B.A., Colgate University
L.L.B., Suffolk University
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