Portland, Oregon, is home to a diverse range of major employers that significantly contribute to the city’s economic landscape. Known for its vibrant culture and thriving business environment, Portland hosts several leading law firms, technology companies, and healthcare institutions. The technology sector plays a crucial role, offering numerous in-house counsel opportunities. Additionally, healthcare giants provide substantial employment in legal and compliance roles. This blend of industries makes Portland an attractive hub for legal professionals seeking diverse career opportunities.
Biggest Law Firms in Portland
- Stoel Rives LLP: Founded in 1907, Stoel Rives LLP is one of Portland’s largest law firms, boasting over 350 attorneys across multiple offices in the United States. Known for its expertise in energy, natural resources, environmental, and business law, Stoel Rives has been involved in landmark cases and innovative projects, such as renewable energy developments. The firm is a member of the Am Law 200, reflecting its prominent status in the legal industry.
- Perkins Coie LLP: Perkins Coie LLP, established in 1912, is a prestigious Am Law 100 firm with a significant presence in Portland. The firm employs over 1,200 lawyers in offices across the United States and Asia. Perkins Coie is renowned for its work in intellectual property, litigation, and business law, serving high-profile clients like Google and Amazon. Their involvement in major tech sector cases underscores their influential role in shaping legal landscapes.
- Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt: With roots tracing back to 1892, Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt is a prominent Portland-based firm with over 175 attorneys. Specializing in a wide range of industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and technology, Schwabe is known for its comprehensive legal services and commitment to client success. The firm has played a pivotal role in significant regional developments, including infrastructure projects and business growth initiatives.
- Miller Nash Graham & Dunn LLP: Miller Nash Graham & Dunn LLP, formed from a merger in 2015, brings together over 130 years of legal experience. With more than 160 attorneys, the firm is recognized for its proficiency in banking, education, government, and real estate law. Miller Nash has a storied history of representing both public and private entities in complex legal matters, solidifying its reputation as a trusted advisor in the Pacific Northwest.
- Tonkon Torp LLP: Founded in 1974, Tonkon Torp LLP is a well-respected law firm in Portland, employing over 80 attorneys. The firm offers a wide array of legal services, including business, litigation, intellectual property, and estate planning. Tonkon Torp is noted for its deep community ties and commitment to social responsibility, often engaging in pro bono work and supporting local non-profits.
- Davis Wright Tremaine LLP: Davis Wright Tremaine LLP, established in 1944, is an Am Law 100 firm with a significant presence in Portland. With over 550 attorneys across the United States, the firm excels in media, entertainment, healthcare, and technology law. Known for their innovative legal solutions and high-profile client base, Davis Wright Tremaine has a strong reputation for handling complex regulatory and litigation matters.
- Lane Powell PC: Founded in 1875, Lane Powell PC is a historic firm with a robust presence in Portland. Employing over 200 attorneys, the firm provides comprehensive legal services across various industries, including aviation, construction, and healthcare. Lane Powell is renowned for its strategic counsel and successful representation in significant legal cases, making it a cornerstone of the Pacific Northwest legal community.
- Barran Liebman LLP: Barran Liebman LLP, established in 1997, specializes in labor and employment law. With a dedicated team of over 20 attorneys, the firm offers expert legal services to both employers and employees. Known for their educational seminars and publications, Barran Liebman has earned a reputation for staying at the forefront of employment law trends and providing exceptional client service.
- Bullivant Houser Bailey PC: Bullivant Houser Bailey PC, founded in 1938, is a distinguished law firm with a strong presence in Portland. The firm employs over 100 attorneys and focuses on litigation, insurance, business law, and professional liability defense. Bullivant Houser Bailey is recognized for its trial expertise and successful defense in high-stakes cases, earning respect within the legal community and among clients.
- Markowitz Herbold PC: Established in 1983, Markowitz Herbold PC is a boutique litigation firm known for its skilled trial lawyers. With a team of around 20 attorneys, the firm handles complex business disputes, employment law, and securities litigation. Markowitz Herbold is celebrated for its courtroom prowess and strategic litigation approach, often achieving favorable outcomes in high-profile cases.
Portland
Portland’s legal market is known for its focus on environmental law, technology, and sustainable development. With a strong emphasis on green initiatives and a growing tech industry, lawyers in Portland often specialize in land use, intellectual property, and corporate law. The city’s commitment to sustainability and its thriving business ecosystem offer legal professionals opportunities to work on cutting-edge legal matters that impact both local and global industries.
Biggest Companies Employing Lawyers
Finding a position with one of the top companies employing lawyers in Portland can be challenging and competitive. Working with a legal recruiter can significantly improve your chances of securing a role, as they have the expertise and connections to match you with the best opportunities. Below are some of the largest and most prominent companies in Portland that employ legal professionals.
- Nike, Inc.: Founded in 1964, Nike, Inc. is one of the world’s leading sportswear and equipment manufacturers, headquartered in Beaverton, a suburb of Portland. With over 75,000 employees globally, Nike’s legal team handles a variety of issues including intellectual property, corporate governance, and international trade. Nike’s legal department is known for its involvement in high-profile trademark disputes and compliance with global regulations.
- Intel Corporation: Intel Corporation, a major player in the tech industry, has a significant presence in the Portland metropolitan area, specifically in Hillsboro. Established in 1968, Intel employs over 110,000 people worldwide, with a substantial number of legal professionals. The legal team at Intel deals with intellectual property, mergers and acquisitions, regulatory compliance, and more, making it a dynamic workplace for lawyers interested in technology and innovation.
- Precision Castparts Corp.: Precision Castparts Corp. (PCC), founded in 1953, is a leading manufacturer of complex metal components and products. Headquartered in Portland, PCC employs thousands of people and has a robust legal department. Lawyers at PCC handle matters related to corporate governance, environmental compliance, and mergers and acquisitions, reflecting the company’s extensive operations in the aerospace, power, and industrial sectors.
- Columbia Sportswear Company: Founded in 1938, Columbia Sportswear Company is a global leader in outdoor apparel and products. With headquarters in Portland, the company employs over 8,000 people worldwide. Columbia’s legal team focuses on intellectual property, retail law, and international trade. The company is known for its innovative products and strong brand protection strategies, providing a dynamic environment for legal professionals.
- The Standard (StanCorp Financial Group): The Standard, established in 1906, is a leading provider of financial products and services, including insurance and retirement plans. Headquartered in Portland, the company employs around 3,000 people. The Standard’s legal department handles a wide range of issues including insurance law, regulatory compliance, and corporate governance, offering diverse opportunities for lawyers in the financial services industry.
- Portland General Electric (PGE): Portland General Electric, founded in 1888, is a major utility company serving the Portland metropolitan area. With over 2,800 employees, PGE’s legal team focuses on regulatory compliance, environmental law, and corporate governance. The company is known for its commitment to renewable energy and sustainability, providing a unique and impactful workplace for legal professionals interested in the energy sector.
- NW Natural (Northwest Natural Holding Company): NW Natural, established in 1859, is a prominent natural gas service provider in the Pacific Northwest. Headquartered in Portland, the company employs around 1,200 people. The legal department at NW Natural deals with regulatory compliance, environmental law, and corporate governance. NW Natural is recognized for its commitment to safety and environmental stewardship, making it an attractive employer for lawyers in the utility industry.
- Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU): Oregon Health & Science University, founded in 1887, is a leading academic health center in Portland. Employing over 16,000 people, OHSU’s legal team handles matters related to healthcare law, research compliance, and intellectual property. The university’s legal department plays a crucial role in supporting its mission of education, research, and patient care, offering meaningful work for legal professionals.
- Daimler Trucks North America: Daimler Trucks North America, a division of Daimler AG, is headquartered in Portland and is a leading manufacturer of commercial vehicles. Established in 1942, the company employs over 20,000 people in North America. The legal team at Daimler Trucks deals with issues related to manufacturing law, corporate governance, and international trade. The company is known for its innovation in vehicle technology and sustainability initiatives.
- Umpqua Bank: Founded in 1953, Umpqua Bank is a prominent regional bank headquartered in Portland. With over 4,000 employees, the bank’s legal department focuses on regulatory compliance, corporate governance, and financial services law. Umpqua Bank is known for its community-oriented approach and innovative banking solutions, providing a supportive and engaging environment for legal professionals.
