About John

John Gear practices consumer law at John Gear Law Office LLC in Salem, Oregon. Since becoming a licensed attorney in 2010, he has dedicated his career to serving clients in various legal areas, including employment law, estate planning, foreclosure defense, probate, and elder law. The firm focuses on providing comprehensive legal services to individuals and families navigating complex legal issues. With a commitment to client advocacy, John ensures that each case receives personalized attention and thorough legal analysis. In 2004, John earned his Juris Doctor (J.D.) from Western Michigan University Cooley Law School. This academic achievement followed his Master of Science in Engineering Management from Washington State University - Tri-Cities campus in 1993 and a Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering from the University of Wisconsin - Madison in 1984.

His diverse educational background contributes significantly to his analytical approach in legal practice. This lets the attorney tackle complex legal challenges with a unique perspective. Most of John's work involves representing clients in consumer disputes, employment-related issues, and estate planning matters. He assists clients facing foreclosure by providing legal guidance through the details of the process. Additionally, John offers support in probate and elder law cases, ensuring that families can navigate these sensitive issues with clarity and confidence. Cases typically progress from initial consultations through negotiations, court appearances, and, when necessary, appeals—highlighting John's commitment to seeing each case through to its conclusion.

Before establishing his law office, John held various positions in the legal and regulatory fields. He worked as a natural resource specialist and regulatory affairs lawyer, gaining experience that informs his current practice. His career began as a research lawyer shortly after law school, and he later took on roles as a principal and principal engineer in the engineering sector. These experiences have gave him a well-rounded skill set that enhances his effectiveness as an attorney. John is actively involved in the legal community, reflecting his dedication to service. He is a founder of the Oregon State Bar Nonprofit Organizations Law Section, which supports legal professionals working with nonprofit entities.

Additionally, he volunteers with several organizations, including the Veterans Pro Bono Consortium and the DeMuniz Resource Center prison re-entry program. His commitment to underserved populations is evident in his work with the OSB Military Assistance Panel. Furthermore, John has a unique background as an officer on the USS Omaha (SSN-692), which adds a distinct perspective to his legal practice. Through his multifaceted experience, John continues to advocate for clients while contributing to the legal community through volunteer efforts and leadership roles.

Education

Western Michigan University Cooley Law School

J.D. (2004) | Law

2001

Washington State University - Tri-Cities campus

M.S. (1993) | Engineering Management

1990

University of Wisconsin - Madison

B.S. (1984) | Nuclear Engineering

1980

Experience

Lawyer

John Gear Law Office LLC
2010

Natural Resource Specialist

Oregon Dept. Of Energy - Nuclear Safety & Energy Siting
2007

Regulatory Affairs Lawyer

Michigan Public Service Commission
2006

Research Lawyer

Michigan Court of Appeals - Prehearing Office
2004

Principal

Catalyst Consulting Services
1994

Principal Engineer

Westinghouse Hanford Company
1989

Officer, USS Omaha (SSN-692)

US Navy
1984

Accepted Jurisdictions

Michigan
Oregon

Court Admissions

Oregon Supreme Court State Supreme Court
Michigan Supreme Court State Supreme Court

Types of Cases Handled

Consumer Law Employment Law Estate Planning Foreclosure Defense Probate Elder Law

Legal Services Scope

Initial consultations Negotiations Court appearances Appeals

Professional Associations

Veterans Pro Bono Consortium

Volunteer Lawyer 2012 - Current

OSB Nonprofit Organizations Law Section

Founder 2011 - Current

Oregon Trial Lawyers Association

has membership 2011 - Current

DeMuniz Resource Center prison re entry program

Volunteer Supervising Lawyer 2011 - Current

OSB Military Assistance Panel

Volunteer Lawyer 2010 - Current

Office Locations

Main Office

 161 High St SE, Ste 208B Salem OR 97301-3610