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Chad M. Colton

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Chad M. Colton

  • Portland
  • Seattle
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Clients turn to Chad when significant business, brand, and reputational interests are at stake, including when a case is already underway or approaching trial.

Chad Colton is a nationally recognized trial lawyer who handles high-stakes business litigation, with a particular focus on matters involving the sports and entertainment sectors. He serves as lead counsel in commercial litigation involving fiduciary duty claims, trade secrets, IP matters, such as contract, partnership, and licensing disputes. Chad represents clients across a range of industries and has substantial experience in matters involving athletes, celebrities, and sportswear companies.

Chad steps into complex cases, quickly assesses the record, and develops a focused trial strategy that connects with jurors. He also works closely with other law firms when brought in to handle critical trial responsibilities while coordinating with broader case teams. Chambers USA describes him as a “go-to lawyer for bet-the-company commercial litigation.” Quoted by Chambers USA, Chad is a “skillful litigator who is not afraid to go in and try cases” and can “unpack the most complex cases and adapt his trial strategy to any jury.” 

Drawing on two decades of courtroom experience and the study of trial techniques, Chad also shares insights on trial work, depositions, and oral advocacy through his popular When You Need to Win video series and seminars.

Areas of focus

Education & Credentials

Education

  • Lewis & Clark Law School, J.D., cum laude, Staff, Law Review, 2006
  • Brigham Young University, B.A., Political Science, 2003

Bar and Court Admissions

  • Oregon
  • Washington

Related Employment

  • Markowitz Herbold PC, Portland, OR, Associate, 2011-2012; Shareholder, 2013-2026
  • Bullivant Houser Bailey PC, Portland, OR, Summer Associate, 2005; Associate, 2006-2011
  • Multnomah County District Attorney, Portland, OR, Certified Legal Student, 2006

Professional Recognition

  • Chambers USA, Up and Coming, 2017–2020; Ranked Practitioner, 2021-2025

  • Forbes Best-in-State, Oregon, 2025

  • Oregon Super Lawyers, Rising Star, 2009-2019; Super Lawyer, 2020-2025
     

  • Best Lawyers in America, Best Lawyer, 2024-2026

  • Litigation Counsel of America, Fellow, 2022-Present

Impact

Professional Leadership

  • Litigation Counsel of America, Fellow, 2022-Present
  • Oregon State Bar; Corporate Counsel Section, Executive Committee, 2021-Present; Technology Section, Executive Committee, 2009-2018; Chair, 2014; International Section, Executive Committee, 2015-2022; Chair, 2017
  • Oregon Association of Defense Counsel, Chair of the Commercial Litigation Section, 2018-2020; Board of Directors, 2021-2023

Community Involvement

  • Civics Learning Project, Board of Directors, 2020-2025
  • Quechua Benefit, Board of Directors, 2015-Present; Board Chair, 2018-Present
  • Up & Out, Board of Directors, 2008-Present; Board President, 2012-Present
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