Michael De Muniz

Sherlag | De Muniz LLP, Portland, Oregon

Trial defense built on discretion, not noise.

Michael De Muniz represents individuals, professionals, and public figures in the most consequential moments of their lives, with the restraint the moment deserves.

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A boutique litigation firm devoted to the protection of civil rights and civil liberties, one case at a time.

Sherlag | De Muniz LLP

Michael P. De Muniz

Michael P. De Muniz

Partner

Mike is a trusted advisor and trial lawyer entrusted with sensitive and difficult criminal defense cases, from public figures to fellow community members caught in the crosshairs of the government. He has defended the interests of judges, judges' family members, elected officials, and professionals, while his practice includes representation across a full cross-section of the community.

He started his own firm in 2013 and partnered with Steven Sherlag in 2017 to form Sherlag | De Muniz LLP. He has persuaded prosecutors to dismiss serious charges before trial and prevailed at trial for clients facing DUII, sexual abuse, and manslaughter charges.

B.A. cum laude, University of Notre Dame J.D., Willamette University College of Law Admitted to practice, Oregon (2008) Former Commissioner, Oregon Public Defense Services Commission Oregon Super Lawyer, 2021–26 Best Lawyers, Criminal Defense

What the firm handles

A focused practice rather than a general one, built around cases where a client's future, career, or reputation is on the line.

01
Criminal Defense

Measure 11 felonies, federal crimes, sex crimes defense, drug offenses, DUII, and appeals in state and federal court.

02
Civil Rights & Police Accountability

Representation for individuals harmed by excessive force, wrongful arrest, or misconduct by police and government actors.

03
Personal Injury & Bicycle Accidents

Injury claims for cyclists and other individuals harmed through the negligence of others.

04
Professional & Public Figure Defense

Discreet counsel for judges, elected officials, and professionals facing government scrutiny.

Steven Sherlag and Michael De Muniz outside the courthouse

Portland, Oregon

A trial record that speaks for itself.

The Case

B.C. was charged with Manslaughter I and Assault II, facing a mandatory 120-month sentence if convicted at trial.

The Response

Michael De Muniz built a defense centered on responsibility and causation, challenging the government's account of what happened and why.

The Outcome

The court found B.C. not guilty of Manslaughter I and Assault II, ruling he bore no responsibility for the death that followed.

Defense led by Michael De Muniz

Recognized by peers, trusted by clients.

Recognition
  • Oregon Super Lawyer, 2021–26
  • Best Lawyers, Criminal Defense
  • Avvo 8.5, "Excellent"
Education
  • B.A. cum laude, Notre Dame
  • J.D., Willamette University
  • Admitted, Oregon (2008)
Public Service
  • Fmr. Commissioner, Oregon Public Defense Services Commission
  • Member, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Mike's a great guy and a very talented lawyer. He cares about his clients and sets high standards for his practice.

Steven Sherlag, Partner

Request a confidential consultation.

Every inquiry is reviewed personally. Contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship.

Call 503.507.1269
Office
820 NW 12th Ave, Suite 106
Portland, OR 97209
Phone
Hours
Monday – Friday, 8:30am – 5:00pm