Nonpartisan
Occupation: Justice, Oregon Supreme Court
Occupational Background: Justice, Oregon Supreme Court (2019-present); Judge, Oregon Court of Appeals (2014-2018); Oregon House of Representatives (2009-2013); Private law practice (2000-2001, 2002-2013); Law Clerk, United States Court of Appeals (2001-2002)
Educational Background: J.D., University of Chicago Law School (2000); B.A., Reed College (1996)
Prior Governmental Experience: Judge, Oregon Court of Appeals; State Representative; Speaker Pro Tempore, Oregon House of Representatives; Law Clerk, United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit; Senior Policy Advisor, Office of the Oregon Senate President
Experienced. Principled. Fair.
A native Oregonian, Justice Garrett attended his local public schools, graduating from what was then Wilson High School (now Ida B. Wells) in Portland.
He began his public service career as a legislative staffer and a law clerk for a federal judge. As a lawyer in private practice, he represented businesses and nonprofit organizations, and provided pro bono services to people in need. In 2008, he was elected to the Oregon House of Representatives, where he earned a reputation for working effectively with people from across the political spectrum.
In addition to his judicial service, Justice Garrett has taught law school courses on legislation and regulation, serves on the Oregon Council on Court Procedures, and co-chaired the Futures Task Force for the Oregon State Bar.
Justice Garrett understands that a judge must approach every case with an open mind, listen carefully, and apply the law to the facts without fear or favor. Our system depends on judges with the integrity to decide cases based on the law, not personal preferences. These principles will continue to guide Justice Garrett's service on the Oregon Supreme Court.
(This information furnished by Committee to Retain Justice Christopher Garrett.)