Practice Area
Litigation
60+ jury trials. 85+ bench trials. When your case has to go to court, Margaret L. Harmon is the trial attorney you want on your side.
Overview
When Negotiation Ends, Trial Readiness Begins
Not every dispute settles. When litigation is necessary, the quality of your trial attorney makes all the difference between a just outcome and a costly loss. Margaret L. Harmon has tried over 60 jury cases and 85 bench trials in Oregon courts across civil, criminal, employment, and family law matters — making her one of the most experienced trial attorneys in the region.
Her approach to litigation is methodical and direct: she prepares every case as if it is going to trial, even when negotiating toward settlement. That posture — thorough discovery, strong evidentiary foundations, and command of courtroom procedure — consistently positions her clients favorably whether the case settles or proceeds to verdict.
Margaret has served as Faculty Advisor at the National Institute for Trial Advocacy and has trained attorneys and prosecutors across the country. She brings that same rigorous preparation to every case she tries in Oregon. All consultations are fee-based and by appointment only.
Litigation Areas
Get Experienced Counsel
Trial-Ready From Day One
Don't wait until the eve of trial to hire a litigator. Early engagement produces better outcomes. All consultations are fee-based and by appointment.
Schedule a Consultation (503) 842-7731Types of Cases
Litigation Services
Contract & Business Disputes
Breach of contract, business breakups, partnership disputes, and commercial claims. Margaret prepares thorough discovery, deposes key witnesses, and presents compelling narratives to judges and juries alike.
Construction Defect
Construction defect claims require technical knowledge and experienced courtroom advocacy. Margaret works with expert witnesses to establish liability, causation, and damages in construction disputes — for property owners and contractors alike.
Employment Litigation
Wrongful termination, harassment, and discrimination cases that cannot be resolved through pre-litigation negotiation are taken to trial when necessary — with the same thorough, methodical preparation Margaret applies to every case she tries.
Will Contests & Estate Disputes
Disputes over the validity of a will, undue influence, lack of testamentary capacity, or breach of fiduciary duty by a personal representative require both probate knowledge and courtroom skill. Margaret brings both to estate litigation matters.
Family Law Trials
When divorce, custody, or support matters cannot be resolved through mediation or negotiation, Margaret tries family law cases in Oregon Circuit Court with precision and care for long-term outcomes — because children and families are affected for years after the verdict.
Injunctions & Emergency Relief
When time-sensitive circumstances require immediate court intervention — asset preservation orders, temporary restraining orders, or emergency custody relief — Margaret moves quickly and decisively, with filings that are precise and persuasive under pressure.
Margaret's Approach
From Filing to Verdict
Case Evaluation
Every case begins with an honest, thorough evaluation of the facts, applicable law, and realistic outcomes. Margaret will tell you candidly whether your case has merit, what litigation will cost, and what it is likely to produce.
Discovery & Investigation
Comprehensive discovery — depositions, document requests, interrogatories, and expert witness development — builds the strongest possible factual record. Cases are won in discovery, not just at trial.
Pre-Trial Motions
Strategic motions can win cases before trial begins. Margaret files dispositive motions and motions in limine to limit damaging evidence, sharpen the issues, and position the case favorably for the fact-finder.
Trial & Verdict
Margaret presents clear, compelling cases to judges and juries. She prepares every witness, every exhibit, and every argument — because trials are won or lost in the details, and she does not leave details to chance.
Common Questions
Litigation FAQ
When should I hire a trial attorney?
As early as possible. The earlier a trial attorney is engaged, the better the case is positioned — both for settlement and for trial. Attorneys hired on the eve of trial inherit whatever decisions were made before them. Early engagement means full control of strategy from the start.
Will my case actually go to trial?
Most civil cases settle before trial — but the terms of that settlement depend heavily on how well the case has been prepared. Margaret prepares every case for trial regardless of whether it is likely to settle, because a well-prepared case commands better settlement terms and wins at verdict when it does not settle.
What should I bring to a litigation consultation?
Bring all relevant documents — contracts, correspondence, court filings, photographs, financial records, and anything else related to the dispute. Bring both favorable and unfavorable information. An accurate picture of the case produces the most useful advice and the most realistic assessment of your position.
What does "trial-ready preparation" actually mean?
It means every deposition has been taken, every document has been reviewed, every expert witness has been identified and prepared, and every legal argument has been briefed — before trial begins. It means nothing about the case surprises you in the courtroom, because you anticipated it months earlier.
Get In Touch
Facing Litigation?
Get Experienced Counsel Now.
The earlier you engage a skilled trial attorney, the better your position. Don't wait until you receive a complaint or a court date is imminent. Contact Margaret L. Harmon to schedule a fee-based consultation.
60+
Jury Trials
85+
Bench Trials
32+
Years Licensed
OR
State Court Experience