ClaimWe Handle All Matters Related To Divorce In Washington
McKinley Irvin is a leader in complex and emerging areas of family law. Our attorneys understand where family law and other laws intersect, and many have developed proficiency in specific types of divorce cases and subspecialties of family law.
Some Of These Unique Case Types Include:
Complex Property and Debt Distribution Issues: This includes cases involving community or separate property interests in family businesses, privately held companies, partnerships, stock options and other executive compensation arrangements, professional practices, unique investment vehicles, collectibles, spousal support (alimony payments), and debt division.
Contested Child Custody: Divorces and relocation cases involving child custody disputes can be complex and difficult, often times involving court appointed professionals or investigators whose findings and opinions can significantly impact the case. Once set in motion, the findings and orders entered by the court can be very difficult to reverse or change in the future. Many of our attorneys are proficient in representing clients in contested child custody matters and dedicated to the protection of mothers' and fathers' rights.
Gray Divorce: We can address the unique issues that arise when one or both parties in a divorce are over the age of 50.
Military Divorce: This includes addressing military retirement benefits and processing service for deployed military personnel.
International Divorce: We can handle divorces that include unique challenges in identifying, valuing, and distributing community and separate property located in countries outside of the US, as well as international treaties that govern child custody determinations, collection of child support, and enforcement of judgments.
Gay and Lesbian Divorce: Our firm has represented members of the LGBT community for over twenty years, and we have always been staunch supporters of universal marriage equality.
Divorce Resolved Through Alternative Dispute Resolution: Most divorce cases are settled out of court using a form of alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation, arbitration, collaborative divorce, or cooperative divorce. All forms require successful negotiation skills and strategy. In representing our clients, every McKinley Irvin divorce lawyer negotiates from a position of strength, which has proven to be the most successful negotiation strategy for more than 20 years.
High Conflict Divorce Litigation: Most divorce cases are resolved by agreement between the parties, but some are not. For high conflict cases or cases that go to trial, it is critical for the law firm you hire to have experienced, proven divorce litigators. Our firm's lawyers are among the most experienced, proven divorce litigators in the communities we serve and have been for over twenty years.
Claim
Seattle, WashingtonReviews
39 reviews
Lou Glass
Brien Galbraith was recommended by my former divorce attorney, who had retired. I ended up wishing I'd used him from day one.
My only reservation about recommending Brien is that his charges, in conjunction with the charges for his paralegal, Josh, made getting closure on my post-secondary education issue an expensive process. However, I never felt the bills were inflated. For the money I got a lawyer who listened to me, worked with my somewhat quirky style and temperament, played a very effective devil's advocate role, and got me exactly what I wanted legally. In truth, he got me more than I expected by challenging me on items I was willing to let go when in fact I had every right to pursue them . What I especially liked is that Brien would allow me to draft documents that he would then clarify or tactfully say "that's legally stupid, don't go there". All interactions were timely and accurate in detail. Calls and emails were promptly responded to. Challenges in my case were that my ex is an attorney and that a military pension and related benefits were involved. Brien admitted he was not particularly familiar with either area, but he did his homework, utilized my knowledge and resources, found the necessary answers and formulated a plan of action I felt was better than some of the self-described experts I'd considered using.
The end result was a win/win/win. My ex didn't get cheated out of anything, I got true closure to a long nasty divorce situation, and most importantly my daughter got what she needed and deserved in the way of post-secondary support.
In my book, that rates 5 stars for Brien, and I'd give the same to Josh.
Andrea Gerber
After finding myself in a situation where I needed an attorney I was referred to Erin Blower. Erin was a beacon of hope for me at a time when my situation seemed impossible and I would never see a resolution. After my first meeting with Erin I knew she was extremely smart, articulate, had exceptional communication skills, and was also a great listener. I trusted Erin right away and every interaction I had with her after solidified and built that trust. Erin had the ability to communicate to me clearly what was going on in my case, what was coming next, and what I had to do. Her professionalism was incredible. I leaned on Erin for support and watched her as she argued convincingly in the courtroom while displaying great confidence and knowledge in my case like it had happened to her. I felt so powerful having Erin on my side and was very pleased when the ruling was in my favor. More often than not, family law issues and disputes can feel hopeless like you're at war and for me I will never again go into another "battle" without Erin. I highly recommend Erin Blower.
Mark Schwab-Bigelow
Brent Bohan represented me in my Divorce. His kind and professional handling of me gave me confidence and peace of mind. Would recommend him and his team heartily.
JMT Toml
Thank you to Brien Galbraith and Joshua Dawson for all their work on my child support and custody case. Brien really listened and was responsive to all my calls and emails. I appreciate the time and work he and Joshua put in on getting me a good resolution. McKinley Irvin was recommended to me by a friend and I was glad to get Brien as my representative. He was great to work with and has an excellent knowledge of the court system. Highly recommended.
David Simpson
I came to McKinley Irvin as a broken man and father who wasn’t sure of what legal motion I just signed. I was led to believe that my marriage situation was going to be fine, that it would all work out after we went and found ourselves and that separation was just temporary. I agreed to a fresh start and a move across the country so we could be a family. I went to marriage counseling by myself. I attended addiction counseling for the alcohol I once consumed. I signed separation papers hearing that it is just temporary and that we were healing as a family. I saw my son everyday and life was looking brighter and brighter. I was happy and I thought everything was working out and then two weeks after I signed a final separation order I was told that it is over and that someone wanted a divorce. I was floored and scared and wondering what happened and what did I sign. I read through all of the motions and orders and from what I understood I had just signed my life, my marriage and my son away. Our final order converted our separation into divorce after six months. I had no custody rights for my son and only visitation per permission. I knew I needed legal help and I hoped and prayed I could do something. I was not a bad person or husband or father. I was getting help on my own and there was no history of any wrong doing whatsoever in my marriage, it hurt and I was confused. After researching multiple law firms and setting up a consultation with an attorney at McKinley Irvin I met Brien Galbraith. He poured through my stacks of motions and orders and we discussed that it didn’t look good at all for me. I shared my story and testimony and he looked at me and told me he believed in me and that we would work together to do everything we could to make things fair. All I wanted was to have joint custody of my son and clear all of the wrong that was documented with the court. Brien and his awesome paralegal Josh Dawson worked with me for more than a year and a half. We knew it was an uphill battle and all of the data and statistics were stacked against me. However I believed and do believe that truth and love, in the end, will always win. Brien’s knowledge of family law is very impressive and our focus on truth was the right strategy. We had highs and lows, the accusations and subpoenas directed toward me were some of the most difficult times in my life. Brien, Josh and I were a team and I couldn’t imagine going through this again in my life without them. I am now a proud daddy with joint custody of my son and we achieved everything I needed and wanted. In the end truth and love won. Thank you Brien, Josh and McKinley Irvin for all of the help. I feel like we are family. Daddy David
Cindy Rickett
I found Brian Edwards through a friend. I originally spoke to Brian as I was contemplating divorce, but within two weeks had to call him back to ask him to file my dissolution the same day. It was an exceptionally emotional day and he was kind and efficient in meeting my needs. My dissolution lasted 13 months and was a high conflict matter. I felt that I got what I paid for. Brian was always prepared. He was knowledgeable and a straight shooter (honest, but kind). He kept me apprised of my case and answered my questions timely. He seems to have a great reputation with the commissioners/judges. I am an attorney myself (in another area of law) and still found the whole matter incredibly stressful. But Brian and his staff made an awful situation manageable. I would absolutely recommend him to anyone.
John Glasser
Brent Bohan is an amazing family lawyer! He is extremely knowledgeable about Seattle family law and a true professional in and out of the court room. While Brent is a lion in court, he interacts with Judges, Commissioners and opposing counsel in a respectful manner and will never resort to being reckless or belligerent as I have witnessed in other petty lawyers. Brent is also an effective mediator if you choose to settle out of court and this experience proves useful in the court room as well. Brent continuously provided me with all of the possible options, potential outcomes and best tactics for my case, yet ultimately gave me control of how to proceed. During this traumatic and stressful time for any client, Brent often assisted me in overcoming irrational courses of action with his cool hand demeanor which was invaluable for our time in court. Brent's legal assistant Candice Graafstra is also extremely helpful and her expertise should be taken advantage of.
Jeremy Pratt
Great firm. I highly recommend them and in particular, Brent P. Bohan, who is incredibly professional, helpful and caring.
Lisa Zook
I was very disappointed with my experience with McKinley Irvin. I hired Danielle LaBelle in what should have been a simple proceeding. The case took 15 months, during which the firm prioritized their profits over my well-being. Documents prepared by the firm were submitted late (or at the very last minute) with typos and mathematical mistakes. There was no strategy provided by Danielle, which ultimately lost me my case.I attempted to escalate my concerns to partners within the firm at multiple points throughout the 15 month process. After the arbitration ruling, Client Services finally put me in touch with a partner. When I finally had a chance to speak with that partner she hadn't even reviewed the case. Client Services never followed up with me, clearly no concern regarding the issues that I had raised.McKinley Irvin benefited greatly from all of the legal fees that they charged me. I would have been better had I never walked in their door. I am in a worse scenario having paid McKinley Irvin to represent me than I had negotiated with my former spouse.
Kathleen Wolsey
Brent was invaluable throughout my divorce process. He was an excellent combination of professional and knowledgeable, while being proactive the entire time. He was very honest and realistic with me, which certainly helped me understand my options clearly. He was always quick to respond to emails and phone calls. With his guidance, I was able to make the best decisions. I highly recommend Brent as an attorney.
Dana Weinman
We had a poor experience with an Attorney at another firm and therefore chose McKinley Irvin to seek a new Attorney to take over our case. We hired Brent Bohan as our Attorney and Jennifer J. D’Amico was the Paralegal who supported him with our case. They both were a pleasure to work with and would highly recommend them. Through their expertise, hard work and attentiveness to the needs of our case we settled with the desired outcome.
Jeanne Perrin
I paid almost $6,000 to McKinley Irvin AND I'M STILL MARRIED!! They are horrible! I have been a legal assistant for over 30 years and their paralegals charged for administrative duties that paralegals should NEVER charge for. Opening a letter?? Give me a break!! I would NEVER EVER recommend this law firm. I had a horrible experience with them and like I said, I AM STILL MARRIED after paying almost $6,000! It is firms like this that give lawyers a bad name!
Kirra Jenks
Brent is an amazing lawyer! He is very knowledgeable and honest. He made this drawn out divorce and child custody go as smooth as it could of been. He really went to bat for not only me but for the well being of my daughter. He really showed that he cared for the best for us. Even when crazy allegations about me were brought up and when my ex-husband started to attack him, Brent stayed very professional. Brent would make sure I knew what all the legal terms meant and answered any question I had. Brent and his legal team were always quick to get back to me. He really listened to what I needed for the end result and finally got him to settle outside of court. I couldn't be happier with the outcome and so glad I hired Brent. I would recommend Brent Bohan to any one looking for a layer in Family law. Brent went above and beyond for me.
Ryan Connors
Worked with Brent Bohan on my recent divorce (contacted him on or around 5/1/18 and divorce was concluded 09/15/18). He was extremely helpful and guided me through all of my options and advised on best course of action. He was patient and took the time to answer any and all of my questions.I would highly recommend Brent for anyone going through one of the most terrible experiences of their lives.Suggestion: Take time to think about all of your questions and send them to him in one large lump sum (good advice for all legal services).
Olga Petrenko
High praise for attorneys is rare, but Brian truly deserves it in many meaningful ways. I worked with him twice. My first experience with Brian was a few years ago, when I needed a good attorney who would lead and directed me through my divorce after 25 years and fight for a spousal support. He was extremely professional, experienced, and knowledgeable. He advised me through every step of the way and addressed any questions or concerns. And yes, together we won a battle, and I got my spousal support. My second experience working with Brian was in time when I found myself in a very unfair and stressful situation.... He helped me to annul my second 5 months marriage. What impresses me the most, it's Brian's wisdom and honesty!!! I feel very grateful that I found Brian, and I absolutely recommend him to anyone for a wonderful job he always does.
Chad Monson
I had the pleasure of having Brent as my lawyer for what was a bit of a difficult dissolution of marriage and child custody process. Brent's expertise, calm demeanor and guidance throughout was very much appreciated. This was especially so during the times where there was extra sensitivity to the parties involved. Brent kept everything on topic. He also shared his thoughts and next steps (either by him or me) very well.
Aaron Jackson
My experience with McKinley Irvin was wonderful. They were attentive to every phone call and treated me like royalty when I was in the office.The best part was working (for counseling me only) with Brent Bohan. It felt like I had a friend counseling me; he is fun, easy-going, knowledgeable, passionate, and so very helpful. He listened to my needs and opinions, asked questions, let me know my options, steered me through the process, and completed paperwork for me. Which is exactly what I expect from my attorney. Brent went far above and beyond my expectations.He clearly explained my options in plain English without all the confusing legal terminology. Brent was always clear and concise and to the point. He does not beat around the bush. He was attentive and reassuring when the opposing counsel was throwing their weight around (I could sense the passion and fire he would have defended me with). He clearly explained the rules of the court to me when I was confused.
Nicholas Filer
Brent represented me in a matter concerning my ex-wife refusing to sign off on travel consent forms for our children to travel to Mexico for the purposes of attending my wedding. Brent's knowledge and experience with the family law system and tenacity lead to the most favorable outcome possible. I whole heartedly recommend Brent for anyone who is seeking representation in any family law matter.
Ruslana S
I worked with Brian Edwards from McKinley Irvin and was very happy with the services received. He always kept me up to date on what I should expect and how long it will take, since divorce is such a long process. I would highly recommend him to anyone, he handled everything really well. I felt like I was a part of the team and not just a "client".
hannah lee jones
Loved my experience with all of the staff at McKinley Irvin. I worked with Kim Schnuelle and her assistant, Josh. A divorce is an incredibly stressful experience under even the gentlest of circumstances -- mine was one of those rare cases -- and I was so impressed by the equanimity and professionalism with which Kim handles the challenging emotions that can come up in the process of navigating a divorce. Her communication, follow-up and follow-through were first rate, as was Josh's communication to fill in any gaps as my husband and I worked out the details of our settlement agreement. We had zero interest in taking anything into litigation, and Kim helped us reach an agreement that worked for both parties so we could avoid fees beyond what either of us could afford. I feel grateful that we were able to settle without any more stress than was absolutely necessary, and I credit Kim and Josh's respectful and delicate attention to our wishes and needs.
Kim Lomman
Brent was very helpful and very professional, and really helped me through a complex, difficult process.
Julie Liu
Brent Bohan at McKinley Irvin was professional and knowledgeable throughout the entire situation we hired him for. We were dealing with an ex-wife who was being obstructionist. With persistence, high aptitude of Family Law knowledge, and consistent follow through, Brent was able to successfully obtain what we hired him for. I would highly recommend anyone who is looking for legal representation in any Family Law matters, to hire Brent Bohan.
Jen Lepage
I could write a novel on why I am so grateful for Brent and Candice!! I maybe read three or four lines of Brent's bio and I immediately set up a time to meet. I had a gut feeling he was going to be the lawyer I needed to take on my divorce with me. Going into my first meeting with him I didn't want to "win"anything out of this divorce I just wanted my two year old daughter and I to be safe and out of the horrible marriage I was in. From day one I knew my gut reaction of choosing him was spot on. Brent is confident, honest , timely and your strength when you feel like throwing in the towel and giving up. Having Brent and his paralegal Candice by my side through the hardest part of my life ever was a blessing. These two do not miss a beat and have guided me through this process with professionalism ,superior knowledge and a no problem attitude the entire way. Brent and Candice get the job done and you feel like part of their team until the very end.
william walker
Worked with Brent Bohan and had Cindy Huang help out too. both were great. Brent went above and beyond to make sure I got a fair settlement in a VERY contentious divorce
Eric Nielsen
I hired Brent Bohan to represent me for the purposes of dissolution of marriage. Not ever having been through this before, I was unsure what to expect. I quickly realized that Brent’s experience and expertise would help me through this challenging process and benefit me in many ways. From reaching a very equitable settlement in a timely manner to keeping overall legal costs to a minimum, Brent never took his eye off the ball and fought for my best interest the entire time. I felt confident having Brent by my side during the proceedings and the end results reflect that. I would certainly recommend his services to anyone looking for an attorney with a deep understanding of family law.
Kristina Bueno
Brent was very thorough in helping me with my case. Through his extensive knowledge and experience, he assisted me in the best way possible and in a timely manner. I could not have succeeded in my case without his service. I highly recommend Brent for any legal needs. He is amazing!
Kenneth Walker
My case was handled by Brien Galbraith in the Seattle office of McKinley Irvin, with the very able assistance of his paralegal Joshua Dawson. The case has reached what may turn out to be a temporary conclusion. I have withdrawn my petition entirely of my own volition out of concern for the other party. It is very possible that I may reopen it in a few months as other events transpire, and I have every intention of continuing my relationship with Brien Galbraith in that event.
Tresa Brazier
I cannot thank Brent (Bohan) enough for his excellent representation during my divorce. The past 14 months have been stressful, terrifying and exhausting. My divorce was complex and very high-conflict, with my husband attempting to get custody of my little girl. I retained Brent after I lost confidence in my initial attorney. He expertly handled my case, including multiple trips to ex parte by OC, what felt like countless declarations and briefs, and an aggressive and angry opposing counsel and husband. During the entire case, Brent returned my call and/or email nearly 100% of the time with the same business day! This meant so much to me, and I always felt reassured after talking with him. On more than one occasion, I was ready to give in and settle due to the abusive litigation I was facing and fear. Brent remained strong and consistent, always standing up for me and the best interest of my child. In the end we prevailed! I highly recommend him. I want to thank Candice. You are great! Thank you also to the staff at the front desk. You all were warm and friendly, and never forgot to validate my parking!
Stefanie Karlin
I hired Brent Bohan, of McKinley Irvin, to handle a complicated and contentious divorce that involved my daughter. I did not want to get a divorce so the process was upsetting for me. Brent was a stable and guiding presence in my case. He offered advice that was straightforward, honest and it kept me grounded. He was passionate in court and he was assertive with my husband's attorney and he didn't let anyone push him around. I had a great experience with his firm from the second I walked in. The staff at the firm was really nice and helpful. I am extremely happy with the result he got me and I would recommend him to anyone looking for a divorce attorney.
Cindy Tremblay
I would highly recommend Laura Sell as a divorce attorney. Laura is very knowledgeable, honest, and trustworthy. We worked together to get the best possible outcome for my difficult situation. She and her team dug deep into my case, even revealing incriminating evidence from my EX, which proved to be very helpful. Whenever I had a question or concern, she was prompt in returning my calls and/or emails. Not only was I pleased with her work as my attorney, but she seemed genuinely concerned for my family’s well-being, and what I was going through. Laura was very easy to talk with and truly understood the stresses and emotions that occur during divorce. She helped put me at ease, told me what to expect throughout the divorce process, and guided me through that very difficult time in my life. I still reach out to her today, when I am in need of legal advice.
Cris Michaels
I spoke with a few other attorneys prior to retaining the family law services provided by Blake Hilty - modification of Parenting Plan and Child Support. I selected Blake because of his knowledge and his straight-forward assessment of what it would take to complete my case. He and the entire staff at McKinley-Irvin were very professional (customer relations, billing and the para-legal staff). He completed the matter just as he outlined. I was very impressed with his efficiency and timely completion of the work. Blake was easy to work with and I highly recommend him based on my personal experience.
J Preston
Jennifer and her team did an excellent job on my case. It was a very complicated case that required much time. Jennifer had been recommended to me by a friend. After reviewing her and the firm, I determined that it would be too expensive to go with her. I went to another attorney first, that wasn't getting me anywhere so I went to another and another! After three attorneys and a serious mistake made by the third, I reached out to Jennifer. She was compassionate, knowledgeable and in the end we were more successful in saving my family and my hard earned assets than I could of hoped for. The costs were extraordinary but I believe if I had gone with Jennifer from the beginning it would have been more manageable. I highly recommend Jennifer and would have gladly given five stars except for the high cost of the litigation.
Ned Trimming
I have often said attorneys are like fax machines, don't often need them but when you do your sure glad you have one. I have used McKinley & Irvin for some very personal family law needs. I was successful EVERY time, its not my opinion that anyone really wins in these situations(the darker side of my ego says thanks for winning every time) but Kim and the Law firm represented me in such a professional, caring way, providing me with clarity, insight to the law and made me feel I was not alone in these always trying times. Kim's was nothing short of excellent and every thing you would hope to expect from an attorney. Her extensive law experience really shines through. Her paralegal Josh was also incredible and both of there warm, kind and caring attitude really helps sooth the nerves. I would also like to add Kim seemed always to have my best interest at heart above all else, she was constantly watching out for ways to save money to the point that I even received money back. I thought I should mention that as there is always a stigma about lawyers trying to spend all your money, and my experience was quite the opposite. What a great law firm, I can recommend them without hesitation and although I hope never to need an attorney again, if I do McKinley & Irvin and Kim Schnuelle will be there for me again. Thanks so much for being by my side.
Cindy Duong
I worked with Kim Schnuelle on my divorce. It was pretty straight forward, but there were a couple issues with my ex and she was able to recommend the best way to handle the situation. Her and her paralegal were very professional, experience, responsive, and very easy to work with. Her retainer was a bit higher than others I spoke to, but I'm happy with my experience with Kim.
Frank Swiderski
I worked with Susan Shulenberger and her associates at McKinley Irvin. They were professional and compassionate, and seeking their counsel was the best decision I could have made during a difficult time. They were consistently on top of my case, and brought it to a successful conclusion. I have recommended them to others and will continue to do so. Their dedication to their clients is outstanding.
Dan Jones
I worked with Kim Schnuelle on post-secondary education support. The process was simple and easy to follow. Kim did a fantastic job keeping me informed on the progress of the negotiation. She also did an exceptional job setting appropriate expectations. I have no hesitation recommending Kim and her team.
Jacquelyn Lee
Called to schedule a consult and spoke Michelle today 08/06/2015. I explained my situation and the legal issue I was having and needed the advise of a family attorney. She explained their office procedure and said she would schedule a consult with an attorney. I was getting another incoming call and asked her to "hold on" and when I came back on to the line, Michelle conveniently disconnected the phone. Customer Service to potential clients is pretty terrible and the claim to of being "the Region's Premier Family Law Firm" is highly unlikely. I did however save the possibility of spending around $295 for the appointment fee.
K B
Very unprofessional, money hungry and rootless.
Kirk Hiller
I was represented by another law firm during my divorce and lost almost everything, most importantly, time with my two sons. Seeking new counsel for my challenging custody situation, I was fortunate to be referred to Jennifer Payseno. Jennifer laid out a clear plan of action and, together with her amazing team, was able to help me gain full custody of my boys. My family is together and thriving today, thankful for the knowledge and experience Jennifer brought to my case. My only regret was not finding Jennifer sooner. I would highly recommend Jennifer Payseno to anyone faced with a difficult custody situation
