Louis Santiago

Attorney

I help business people with their Oregon legal needs, chiefly in the Practice Areas mentioned on our website. I work with business owners, managers, and in-house counsel who want assistance demystifying federal, state and local laws and regulations and preparing state-compliant agreements and who want experienced and committed legal counsel to advance their business objectives and defend their business interests in disputes brought in front of federal, state and alternative dispute resolution tribunals in Oregon.

I have attained the highest rating awarded by Martindale Hubbell® – the AV Preeminent® rating – which recognizes lawyers based on peer reviews for their strong legal ability and high ethical standards. An elite group of approximately 10 percent of all attorneys have attained the AV Preeminent rating, according to Martindale Hubbell. However, peer review and rating company assessments tell only part of the story. I am intensely committed to client service. Please review the Testimonials section of our website to read what clients are saying about my commitment to excellent client service.

Prior to entering the legal profession, I was employed as a manufacturing engineer for a national manufacturer and as a Supply Chain QA engineer for an Oregon-based manufacturer of pumps and other heavy equipment used in a variety of industries, from agriculture to nuclear power. My first association as a legal professional was with the law department of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Portland District.

I provide pro bono legal services to manufacturing non-profit organizations and have been appointed to several professional leadership positions. I enjoy fly-fishing, hiking, reading, and watching collegiate and professional soccer matches.

Contact:

(503) 380-5320 Office
[email protected]

Education

Northwestern School of Law of Lewis & Clark College (Portland, OR), Juris Doctor degree
University of Florida (Gainesville, FL), Bachelor of Science – Engineering degree

Experience

Santiago Law Firm LLC, Founder / Managing Member, August 2017 – Present, Portland, OR
Holland & Knight LLP (And Predecessor Law Firm), Partner, 1994 – 2017, Portland, OR
Fountain Rhoades, PC (And Predecessor Law Firms), Partner, 1986–1994, Portland, OR • Seattle, WA • Spokane, WA

Memberships

American Bar Association
Oregon State and Multnomah (County, OR) Bar Associations
Oregon State Bar, Professional Liability Fund, Board of Directors 2002-2006; Chair 2005-2006, and Disciplinary Trial Board, Region 5, Member 2001

Court Admissions

All Oregon State Courts
U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon
U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Washington
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit
U.S. Court of Federal Claims

Testimonials

Hear what our clients have to say..

I have worked with Louis for 20+ years. His ability to listen well, educate you on the workings of the law and then discuss potential options available is extraordinary. That feeling of "concern" especially as a business leader, over the potential liability that legal issues can cause–may keep you up at night. Working with Louis minimized those sleepless nights and most importantly contributed to not only ensuring proactive policies that protected my business but minimized exposures to legal risks.

– Susan S., Former CEO and President of a Washington credit union.

The Urban Manufacturing Alliance is a young organization that is in the midst of examining its bylaws and board procedures. Louis has advised us carefully and thoroughly every step of the way. He has supported us extensively as we've developed agreements with our partners, and along the way he has helped UMA think about its broader organizational strategy. Louis has a way of breaking down legal issues and making them accessible to all involved. He has become an invaluable advisor to both our staff and board of directors. We count ourselves very lucky to be working with him on such a broad range of projects.

– Lee W., Former Executive Director

I am a third generation business owner. I came into my role with very little management experience. I have leaned on Louis over the past 10+ years whenever a major human resource issue has come up at our company. He has always responded immediately and helped walk me through each issue. They are always unique, no HR issue is ever the same. He helps me look at all the sides and walks me through the options and the outcomes of those options. This helps me make the best decision for our company. Because of those decisions we have a great company environment.

– Sarah B., CEO and President of a new and used commercial trucks parts company.

As a client of Louis for several years, I have consistently been impressed with his exceptional expertise in employment law and his ability to navigate complex legal challenges. His guidance has been crucial in helping me manage intricate employment law issues with confidence and ease. Louis stands out for his prompt and thorough responses, ensuring that every concern is addressed with both professionalism and a deep understanding of my unique business context. His ability to dissect and explain legal intricacies in a straightforward manner has been invaluable, allowing me to make informed decisions that positively impact my business. Working with Louis, I've felt supported and well-equipped to handle any legal challenge, contributing significantly to the peace of mind and the success of my business.

-Andrew H., President of a technology consulting firm that supplies strategic consultants, subject matter experts, and agile project teams to harness the power of both people and technology.