Nonpartisan
Occupation: Judge, Oregon Court of Appeals
Occupational Background: Judge, Oregon Court of Appeals (2025-2026); Partner, O'Connor Weber (2012-2025); Co-Executive Director, Equal Justice Law (2023-2025); Deputy Public Defender, Oregon Office of Public Defense Services (2005-2011)
Educational Background: J.D., University of Notre Dame Law School (2005); B.A., University of Portland (2001); Capital High School, Olympia, WA (1997)
Prior Governmental Experience: Judge, Oregon Court of Appeals (2025-2026); Deputy Public Defender, Oregon Office of Public Defense Services (2005-2011)
Judge O'Connor has served on the Oregon Court of Appeals since March 2025. He has heard dozens of appeals and authored dozens of opinions. Before that, Judge O'Connor represented hundreds of clients at trial, before admimistrative agencies, and on appeal in Oregon state courts and in federal courts. His clients included inviduals and small businesses. He helped exonerate two people who had been wronfully convicted of crimes. Throughout his legal career, Judge O'Connor has been known for his collegiality and legal ability.
Judge O'Connor grew up in Olympia, Washington. He moved to Oregon for college and has lived in Oregon for more than 20 years. Judge O'Connor and his family enjoy hiking, camping, and playing sports. He volunteers on the board of the local little league and as a youth softball coach. Judge O'Connor is an active member of the Oregon State Bar and has served on the advisory boards of nonprofit organizations.
"I am honored to serve Oregonians as a judge on the Oregon Court of Appeals. I am committed to making sure that every party that appears before me is treated respectfully, fairly, and according to the rule of law. I will keep working to ensure that Oregon's courts are transparent, accessible, and fair. I ask you to retain me as Judge on the Oregon Court of Appeals." - Judge Ryan T. O'Connor
(This information furnished by Elect Judge Ryan O'Connor.)