Best Divorce Lawyers in Seattle

Susan Kennedy

Divorce Lawyers

Susan Kennedy has worked as a family law attorney for over a decade handling all areas of divorce and child custody cases. Additionally, she has spent many years as a Guardian ad Litem in Washington. This role required hard work and dedication. During that time, she was called as an expert in several trials. She was subject to cross-examination and highly regarded by judges. As a result, she can process complex situations quickly.

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In addition to her experience, Susan takes a realistic approach with her clients. She will provide you with information to make good decisions for your future. Her top priorities are listening to her clients, providing sound advice and following through with the legal work to achieve those goals. “My clients will always know my analysis of where they stand in their case.” says Susan.

Finally, Susan does not back down from a fight when she feels her client’s interests are not being addressed. She cares deeply about providing excellent legal work to her clients.

Faye BreitReed

Divorce Lawyers

Faye has worked with families in crisis since she was an undergraduate. While majoring in Family Studies and Human Development, she taught classes to help children cope with the after-effects of divorce and domestic abuse. Her early experience helping families navigate difficult events led her to pursue a career in family law.

Faye puts her clients at ease with superior listening skills and a calming demeanor. Although she is a strong advocate in high conflict litigation, she strives to resolve cases outside of court whenever possible.

Faye represents clients in all areas of family law and has specialized training in tax preparation. This experience makes her particularly effective when tax issues arise in family law matters.

Originally from Arizona, Faye embraces the rainy Pacific Northwest. She enjoys reading areas of practice mystery novels, trying new restaurants, and hiking with her cattle dog-lab mix, Ruthie.

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Distinctions

Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in the field of Family Law, 2022 – 2023

Distinguished as a Washington Rising Star by Super Lawyers®, 2020 – 2023

Avvo.com 10.0 “Superb” rating

Ululani “Lani” Akiona

Divorce Lawyers

I am a compassionate and empathetic individual, and I founded Akiona Law, PLLC to fully realize my passion for helping people in this turbulent and uncertain economic climate and to ensure people are being treated fairly and are not being taken advantage of.

I support and encourage parties to work together to resolve their issues, especially when children are involved. The fact of the matter is when you have children, you are going to have to deal with your former spouse for the rest of your life, like it or not. Thus, I encourage you to put aside whatever feelings you may have toward your spouse early on and focus solely on what is in your children’s best interests. This is the Court’s main focus as well.

I know cooperation is not always possible or desirable in certain situations. If that is your situation, rest assured as a former prosecutor, I have tried to verdict dozens of criminal jury and non-jury trials. My extensive trial and courtroom experience means I will not shy away from high conflict situations, and I will fight for your rights when needed.

However, if you are looking for an attorney to be aggressive just for the sake of being aggressive, then I suggest you look for another attorney. My personal thoughts on the matter are that overly-aggressive attorneys actually do a disservice to their clients as unnecessary and lengthy litigation increases the client’s costs, not to mention the emotional and mental stress it places on all parties. I believe it is better to “pick and choose your battles.”

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Education

University of Hawaii, William S. Richardson School of Law, Honolulu, Hawaii
- J.D.
University of Hawaii
- B.A.
- Major: English

Bar Admissions

Hawaii, 2002
Washington, 2005

Professional Associations

Washington State Bar Association, Member, Present
Hawaii State Bar Association, Member, Present
Washington State Bar Association Solo and Small Practice Section, Member, Present
Washington State Bar Association, Family Law Section, Member, Present
Domestic Relations Attorneys of Washington, Member, Present
Snohomish County Bar Association, Member, Present
Snohomish County Bar Association, Family Law Section, Member, Present
King County Bar Association, Member, Present
King County Bar Association Family Law Section, Member, Present
King County Collaborative Law, Present
International Academy Of Collaborative Professionals, Present

Chloe V. Nichol

Divorce Lawyers

Chloe practices family law with a focus on complex financial issues and complex parenting issues.

Chloe’s work identifying and valuing property in cases with large and complicated marital estates combined with her experience negotiating and litigating property issues enables her to counsel her clients with knowledge and confidence. She has addressed disputes regarding character of property and value of property. Chloe has negotiated and litigated issues related to closely held businesses including management of the business during the pendency of a dissolution, valuation of the business, and division of the business. Her experience includes valuation issues related to stock, retirement assets, real property, and deferred compensation. Chloe has negotiated and mediated the issues of spousal maintenance and child support; her experiences include analyzing changeable and complex income to calculate support. Chloe tailors her work to address the individual needs of each client and approaches advocacy for her clients with determination and ingenuity.

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Years of experience guiding clients through the complicated and often painful landscape of parenting disputes support Chloe’s ability to negotiate and litigate complex parenting issues. Chloe has addressed complex parenting issues during dissolution of marriage, in parentage actions, and post-decree. She has worked on cases that include domestic violence, child abuse, mental health issues, and drug addiction. Chloe approaches parenting matters with empathy, pragmatism, and insight.

Chloe recognizes the life changing importance of family law disputes and strives to provide her clients with advice and advocacy designed to fit their needs and those of their family. She strives to make her clients feel heard, understood, and supported. She has supported clients through negotiation and mediation to resolve their case by settlement. With extensive courtroom experience Chloe is a confident and skilled courtroom advocate.

Melissa Eckstrom

Divorce Lawyers

I am attorney Melissa Eckstrom. I earned my J.D. from Seattle University School of Law in 2014 and passed the Washington State Bar exam the same year. Since then, I have devoted my practice to helping people facing a wide range of legal issues. I take on all types of family law cases, including divorce, custody, parenting plan modifications, domestic violence, and post-divorce modification. In my criminal practice, I focus on misdemeanors and gross misdemeanors, including hit and run’s, driving while license is suspended in the second or third degrees, drug charges, and DUI’s. I also represent people who wish to fight traffic infractions.

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In all of my areas of practice, there is one constant. I am fully invested in helping my clients in achieving their goals and moving forward with their lives. Through skill and determination, I have been able to achieve positive outcomes for my clients time and again.

My law firm, Eckstrom Law Firm, PLLC, was selected to be a part of Seattle University School of Law’s Low Bono Incubator Program, which helps new lawyers establish their practices. This program, along with the relationships I have established with other lawyers in the area, has provided invaluable support to my law firm.

I want to make hiring my law firm as easy as possible for my clients. I am available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. I also accept credit cards, and in some situations I am willing to accept payment plans. I offer a free 20 minute consultation to discuss your situation.

KELSEY MORFITT

Divorce Lawyers

Kelsey Morfitt is a former United States Air Force attorney and hails from Enumclaw, Washington.

Kelsey graduated magna cum laude from Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Washington and majored in Spanish and Political Science. She graduated cum laude from Gonzaga University School of Law in Spokane, Washington while serving as a member of Gonzaga Law Review and interning for the Spokane County Prosecutor’s Office, Washington State Attorney General’s Office Social and Health Services Division, Washington State Senate Committee Services, and the Chambers of Judge Robert Whaley in federal district court. Kelsey also completed service projects in Honduras with her law school organization, Mission Possible.

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After law school, Kelsey joined the Air Force where she helped military members with legal assistance matters like wills and estates, pro se divorce, and landlord-tenant law, as well as prosecuting cases in military court and reviewing government contracts. She has also worked for the Washington and Hawaii State Senates drafting legislation and advising senators on legal and policy issues, and has a Master’s degree in Urban & Regional Planning.

Kelsey has completed multiple marathons and half-Ironman triathlons, and she is considering tackling a 140.6-mile Ironman next.

Whether you’re looking for a compassionate attorney that understands the pain of divorce, or someone who will get in the ring and fight for you, Kelsey Morfitt is the attorney you want on your side.

Carena C. McIlwain

Divorce Lawyers

Upon graduating from law school in June 1993, I fancied myself practicing business law – sitting in a room with documents working on forming iron clad deals/contracts, figuring out potential loop holes and closing them. I never saw myself in a courtroom. While I studied for the bar exam in Philadelphia, I went back to work for the civil litigation firm where I worked as a paralegal prior to law school. I was thrown into the courtroom and never even looked for a job in contract work. There I stayed, a Philadelphia trial attorney, until the shine wore off of civil litigation in 1999. As time went on, I became less fulfilled in this area of law. I thought about a move back home to North Carolina where I became licensed in 1999; but that was not to be. Fate decided it would be the Pacific Northwest for me. In 1999, I moved to Seattle and became licensed to practice in June 2000. Family law has been my steady diet ever since.

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I didn’t choose family law; family law chose me. After moving to the Pacific Northwest, I was exploring various areas of the law when I landed in the offices of Anderson, Fields & McIlwain, Inc., P.S., P.S.. After meeting Wolfgang Anderson and shadowing him for 30 days, I was hooked.

Dissolution and/or parenting issues can be extremely difficult for the litigants involved and even more so for the children of the parties. When issues of domestic violence or substance abuse are added to the equation, this process can easily become overwhelming. That’s where I come in. I walk with my clients through the process each step of the way. We decide together what the goals are and how we are going to get there. Clients have a significant role in the process – after all, it is their life. However, it is my burden as well. As we walk through the process together, it is my hope that their load is lighter because we are sharing it. I have been working in the legal arena since I was 18 in various areas of the law (e.g., probate, estate, small claims, civil litigation involving medical malpractice, civil rights, breach of contract, personal injury, etc.). Family law has indeed been the most rewarding.

I handle dissolution actions with or without children, relocation actions, modification actions, parentage actions, third party custody actions, complex and high asset dissolutions and domestic violence petitions. My approach is generally to chart a path to the end of this process with the least amount of acrimony while serving my client’s best interests in light of the prevailing statutes and caselaw. This can be achieved if everyone has the same goals. Oftentimes, it works; sometimes, it doesn’t. When it doesn’t, I can be counted on to be a strong litigator for my client throughout the process even into trial, if that becomes necessary.

Laurie G. Robertson

Divorce Lawyers

Laurie Robertson has been practicing family law since 1996. As a seasoned and aggressive divorce lawyer, she is extremely familiar with Washington state’s complicated laws. She is a compassionate and caring attorney driven by results, and she knows her way around the court room.

Attorney Robertson’s extensive experience and legal knowledge allow her to serve a range of client needs. Laurie earned her B.A in psychology at Rutgers University, New Jersey. She earned her J.D. at New York Law School in New York City. After law school, she relocated to Atlanta, Georgia and worked for a firm which focused on family law.

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The firm had a contract with the state of Georgia and Laurie represented both child support enforcement and child protective services county agencies, as well as, private clients. In late 2001, lured by family and the beautiful Pacific Northwest scenery, Laurie moved to the Seattle area and in 2002 she was admitted to the WA State Bar.

For nearly three years, Attorney Robertson worked as a special project lawyer for Preston, Gates & Ellis. In 2006, Laurie joined Lutz Law Offices which focused primarily on family law. Laurie is a trained collaborative law attorney and experienced mediator. She has the resources and the experience to handle any type of divorce case, regardless of the complexity of the situation or the assets that may be involved.

Laurie has handled cases including divorce, child custody, adoption, child support, paternity, prenuptial agreements, parenting plans, modifying / enforcing orders, and more. She has represented clients in King County, Pierce County, Kitsap County, Thurston County, and Snohomish County. Laurie has experience in high conflict custody battles and complex asset distribution. Attorney Robertson truly understands the trauma that all clients face even in during divorce cases that may seem quite simple. She is committed to guiding her clients through these difficult and emotionally trying times.

Brent Thompson

Divorce Lawyers

Brent Thompson has been a member of the firm for over a decade, rising through the ranks during that time, from summer intern to named partner. He grew up on Whidbey Island and graduated from Oak Harbor High School in 2002, earning the distinction of Male Athlete of the Year. Brent then attended Skagit Valley College where he was named as the English/Communications Student of the Year before receiving his Associate’s Degree. After receiving his Bachelor’s Degree, from Western Washington University, with a major in History/Social Studies and minor in Economics. Brent then enrolled in Liberty University School of Law after being offered a scholarship there. During law school Brent was placed on the Dean’s List for his academic performance and also began working as a Legal Intern at our firm upon receiving a limited license to practice law. In 2011, he received his Juris Doctor cum laude upon graduation from law school. Brent has been with us ever since. Brent is admitted to practice law in the State of Washington, the United States District Court for the Western District of Washington, and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.

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Brent’s practice emphasizes criminal defense. He provides zealous and diligent representation for those accused of Felony and Misdemeanor level offenses including but not limited to Driving Under the Influence (DUI), Felony DUI, Vehicular Assault, Reckless and Negligent Driving, Domestic Violence, Drug Offenses, and Assault. He has worked on many serious felony cases during his career, including First Degree Murder, felony sex offenses, and a complex trial in federal court that involved an international drug smuggling conspiracy, among others.

Our firm’s general philosophy is that “less evidence is more” for the accused in criminal matters (given that the prosecution has the burden of proving its allegations). We seek to get unfavorable evidence suppressed and excluded (i.e. “thrown out of court”) in an attempt to make it hard for the prosecution to prove its charges. Brent is instrumental in this process. He places police reports, witness statements, and other evidence under a “microscope” to identify legal and factual problems. His knowledge of search and seizure law, the rules of evidence, criminal procedure, statutory law, and his exceptional legal research and writing skills have caused significant problems for prosecutors. For example, legal memoranda Brent filed in a famous First Degree Murder case that received national media attention (48 Hours, Dateline, and where Craig was Lead Counsel) helped lead the prosecutor to publicly admit that the targeted evidence would “probably never see the light of day” because of Brent’s work. Brent has also successfully convinced Courts to suppress problematic blood and breath test results, incriminating statements, and unfavorable video recordings. His legal memoranda have also resulted in the dismissal of criminal charges in multiple prosecutions Brent has also prevailed at trial and is prepared to argue zealously for our clients before juries.

Hiring the best divorce lawyer in Seattle, or any location, can have significant importance in your life during the process of divorce. Seattle, being a city in Washington state, has its own legal framework and considerations for divorce cases. Here’s why having a top divorce lawyer in Seattle can be crucial and impactful:

Understanding of Washington State Laws: Family laws and divorce regulations can vary from state to state. A top divorce lawyer in Seattle will have an in-depth understanding of Washington state’s divorce laws, ensuring that your case is managed according to the relevant legal framework.
Protection of Rights: A skilled divorce lawyer will work to safeguard your rights and interests throughout the divorce proceedings. This is particularly important when it comes to matters such as child custody, property division, alimony, and more.
Complex Financial Situations: If your marital assets and finances are complex, involving assets like businesses, investments, or multiple properties, a top lawyer can ensure that these assets are properly evaluated and divided according to Washington state law.
Child Custody and Support: If you have children, their well-being is a primary concern. A knowledgeable divorce lawyer can help you navigate child custody arrangements and child support calculations, always prioritizing the best interests of the children.
Legal Expertise: Divorce involves intricate legal procedures and paperwork. A skilled lawyer can guide you through the process, ensuring that you fulfill all necessary legal requirements while avoiding pitfalls or oversights that could negatively impact your case.
Effective Communication: A top divorce lawyer is an excellent communicator who can represent your interests clearly and persuasively in negotiations, mediation sessions, and, if necessary, court proceedings.
Alimony and Spousal Support: Determining spousal support or alimony requires a comprehensive analysis of various factors. A skilled lawyer can advocate for a fair arrangement that takes into account your financial circumstances and the length of your marriage.
Negotiation Skills: Many divorce cases can be resolved through negotiation rather than litigation. A capable lawyer will possess strong negotiation skills to help you reach mutually agreeable settlements while minimizing conflict and stress.
Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution: Washington state encourages alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation for resolving divorce issues. A skilled lawyer can guide you through these processes, helping you achieve amicable solutions without the need for a protracted courtroom battle.
Emotional Support: Divorce can be emotionally challenging. A compassionate and experienced lawyer can provide not only legal guidance but also emotional support, helping you navigate the emotional aspects of the process.
Minimization of Mistakes: Mistakes in divorce paperwork and legal processes can have lasting consequences. A top divorce lawyer can help you avoid errors that could compromise your case or future.
Timeliness and Efficiency: A seasoned divorce lawyer understands the importance of resolving your case efficiently and in a timely manner. They will work to ensure that your case progresses smoothly while avoiding unnecessary delays.

Hiring the best divorce lawyer in Seattle is important because divorce proceedings can have a significant impact on your life, emotionally and financially. A skilled lawyer can help you make informed decisions, protect your rights, and guide you through the legal process, ultimately aiming to achieve the best possible outcome for your circumstances.