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Patricia A Newman

Divorce and separation Attorney at Lake Oswego, OR

5.0   20 reviews
  • State Years
    Oregon - OR 40 years
    Washington - WA 38 years
  • Licensed for 40 years
    State OR
    Acquired 1983
    Status
    Active No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 38 years
    State WA
    Acquired 1985
    Status
    Voluntarily Resigned No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Patricia

Learn Patricia’s areas of practice.

3
Practice areas

I handle a relatively smaller number of cases and provide very individualized attention to each of my clients. I never lose my professional objectivity in analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of a case. I will listen carefully to a client, then lay out, in plain English, the various options available to them.
 
I will weigh many factors when rendering an opinion as to the best way to proceed, including which judge has been assigned to your case, the county in which the case has been filed, the reasonableness of the lawyer representing your spouse/partner, the financial resources available to each side, recent appellate caselaw which pertains to your case and the likelihood of success. My practice is limited to the tri-county area (Washington, Multnomah and Clackamas County).
 
I have been practicing law for 27 years, almost exclusively in the area of family law.  I have won custody cases in which almost everything seemed to go against my client. I am adept at articulating the winning argument, but am also careful to advise my client of the risks involved before proceeding.
 
I usually try to work out a settlement to save my client the expense and emotional turmoil of trial, but if I believe the other side is not willing to negotiate in good faith, or is making unreasonable demands, I will fight tooth and nail for my client in court. In turn, I will tell my client if I believe he or she is being unrealistic or unreasonable or is at risk of having the judge order them to pay the other side's attorney fees.
 
I have a relatively low hourly rate, given my many years of experience. I can afford to do this because I do not have the kind of overhead many downtown lawyers do.
 
If you or a loved one is in need of a knowledgeable, caring and affordable family law attorney, please call my office for an appointment today.

 

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Awards

Client's Choice 2012,2010
Client's Choice
2012 2010

Contact Patricia

Newman Family Law LLC
5200 Meadows Road
Suite 150
Lake Oswego, OR, 97035

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  20 customer reviews
5 Star
 
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4 Star
 
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Client's Choice 2012
Client's Choice
Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.
Posted by Marichka | April 4, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Patricia is the BEST of the BEST
My divorce would be Hell if it wasn't for Patricia. It was difficult case since my X is self-employed , Pat rocked it all the way ... no matter what my X threw my way she handled it in my BEST interest .... she was my rock to the end .... Thank you Pat again .... as always you are Best of the Best .
Posted by Timothy | April 5, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Incredible Divorce Attorney
Better late than never. I was cleaning out my desk procrastinating any way possible to keep from jumping into my taxes. When I ran across my Divorce file from 2005. Patricia A Newman handled my divorce and it was a pleasure to work with a person with her level of professionalism. She out maneuvered the opposing Attorney a every juncture and we attained a conclusion better than I ever thought possible. I called Patricia and told her how I appreciated her hard work all those years ago. She was a little overwhelmed but I believe in giving credit where credit is due. I hope this review is of some help to some poor chap that is in that dark place that I was in so many years ago.
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Posted by George | April 15, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Expertise and skill matters!
I had the privilege' of retaining Pat to represent my case. There were many complicated pension and property issues involved. Pat's experience in these matters proved invaluable in slicing through difficult issues. She brings a wealth of knowledge and resources to the table. If there is an area where we needed additional experts she has a great deal of contacts in specialized fields (QUADRO, Actuary... ) to draw from. She knows the players in the field and is aware of how an opposing council may utilize a particular resource. Ultimately this case was settled and I would recommend Pat for any family law needs.
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Posted by Brian | August 25, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Fantastic attorney
Patricia knows her stuff. Insights into the local system and specific judges are invaluable, as well as her intellect in approaching cases.
Posted by Daniel | November 29, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
No Nonsense Attorney with amazing attention to detail.
My case was literally referred to by the judge and his assistant as "the case that would never end." I was referred to Pat by a very close friend. He said to me, "listen to her, because I didn't and lost custody of my kids." My friend was referred to Pat because "Pat was the opposing council and she completely destroyed my attorney." Pat defended me against my former wife on a number of issues; custody, bogus restraining order(s), DHS involvement, spousal support termination, attorney fees, a baseless appeal and mediation just to name a few. In the end, Pat won everything, even full attorney fees. In the judge's final judgement, he scolded my former wife and her attorney for their behavior and "reckless" use of the family protection act among other things too long to mention. In closing, I have referred Pat several times and will continue to do so. She leaves no stone unturned and will fight for her client until justice is served. Do yourself a favor and look no further than Pat because no one will represent you the way she will.
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Posted by anonymous | November 28, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Fierce and Wise
Patricia was a calming voice of reason. She understands how to navigate the court system and knows many of the personnel by name throughout. Excellent at creating a game plan and executing efficiently. Highly recommended.
Posted by anonymous | March 22, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent and well versed lawyer
My divorce was a very difficult case as there was domestic violence involved, but nothing Patricia Newman couldn't handle. Before I hired her, I had lost all hope that I would win custody and that my ex's parenting time would be reduced so I would know and have peace of mind that my child was safe. Patricia really became my crusader and helped me stand up to my ex when I felt too afraid. She really cared about the safety of, not only my son, but for me as well. Needless to say, I not only won my case but I got far more than I had asked for. If you’re going through a divorce where there is domestic violence involved, Patricia Newman is VERY well versed and knows how to handle these types of cases. I have recommended her to several people going through similar situations and will continue to recommend her in the future.
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Posted by Trent | December 17, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly recommend, she wont let you down!
I cannot give enough praise for Patricia Newman. I had given up all hope in obtaining equal visitation to see my child and she delivered! If you want someone who will fight for you, she is the one for you. She doesn't sit idly by. She is very informative, active, and listens to your input and opinions. But more importantly she is honest and won't let you say or do anything emotional that can damage your case. She will keep you level headed at a time when you need to be! YOU will not regret hiring her as your attorney!
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Posted by Patricia | December 10, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Tough and knows her stuff
I cannot say enough about Pat Newman and how she handled my divorce. She brought me out of this mess with the least possible damage – and it could very well have been a disaster for the rest of my life had she not been as skilled, professional, knowledgeable, and tough as she is -- she knows her stuff! She is able to analyze a situation with broad thinking and looks at every possible angle. This was a nasty case where I would, in all likelihood, have been paying spousal support INDEFINITELY (I did consult other attorneys) even though the marriage was only 12 years in duration and we had no children together. But Pat was tenacious in her work -- she will not accept the status quo when she advocates for her clients. Thanks to her creativity and high expectations, we were able to reach a settlement that saved me thousands, and most importantly, has allowed me to go on with my life untethered. She definitely proved to me that she can and will deliver.
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Posted by Angela | January 10, 2012
This attorney changed my son's future...
Patricia Newman represented me against my son's father in a very nasty custody battle. She's hardworking, diligent, extremely intelligent and knowledgeable in her area of expertise. I feel blessed each night when I put my young son to bed that I was referred to her. Pat was available to me nearly always and when she wasn't available she'd get back to me within the same business day. Pat seems to pour her heart into her work and seems to enjoy what she does. She never made me feel inadequate for asking questions, sometimes the same question repeatedly. I found her to be friendly and honest, which is hard to find. She prepared me for worst case scenario, yet remained optimistic and kept me feeling positive as well. I highly recommend Pat Newman to anyone in need of assistance. When other issues arouse in my case that was not her area of expertise she referred me to the appropriate attorneys necessary to satisfy all areas of legal work that were necessary in my life due to the separation from my child's father. After my son's father hired an attorney of his own, she was extremely professional in the manner in which she dealt with his attorney. Pat was also very professional in dealing with doctors that became involved in our case that were less than accommodating and quite frankly difficult to deal with, yet she again maintained her professionalism. While waiting for appointments, I'd notice other clients leaving her office seeming as satisfied with her as I am. I pray I will never need her assistance again; however, if need be I wouldn't consider calling anyone BUT her. Pat's dedication to my case paid off and I have custody of my young son. If you're looking for an attorney that will work hard and give all of herself to your case do not hesitate contact Patricia Newman.
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Posted by David B. | January 3, 2012
A Powerful Advocate On Your Side
I was devastated when my wife walked out on me. I was also not completely rational, and would have been inclined to give away far more than I should have. Pat saved me tens of thousands of dollars, and probably saved my house. Thanks to her guidance and experience, I was able to make it through one of the most difficult experiences of my life. Pat was able to help me see things that I'm sure many other attorneys would have missed. (I interviewed several before hiring her.) Her attention to detail was amazing. Her understanding of complex financial and technical issues was exceptional. Her overall skill as an attorney is outstanding. She allowed me to complete the process and retain my dignity; a difficult accomplishment in such a toxic environment. I cannot say enough about her; she was truly an excellent advocate.
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Posted by Leo | August 4, 2011
Extremely Knowledgeable and Well Qualified
This was the second time that I worked with Patricia. I hired her 7 years ago to take over my divorce case when my previous attorney had been letting deadlines slip. Last year it became crucial that I file for full custody of my daughter. I initially thought that my case was pretty solid and that we were sure to win. But Patricia works her cases from every angle anticipating all possible objections that could be raised by the other side and prepares her strategy accordingly. I admired Pat's in depth knowledge of the law, her professionalism and court presence. She always kept me informed regarding every aspect of my case. I never felt like i was "just another case" or that my phone calls were perceived as inconvenient or annoying. She had the difficult task trying to overcome a tilted scale, that was not in our favor: I was a father pursuing custody--but WE WON!! Along the way she was bombarded by all the ridiculous motions filed by my ex-wife's 'rookie' attorney. Hence, she worked tirelessly to successfully defeat them. I have been totally pleased with Pat's services and I HIGHLY recommend her to you all.
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Posted by William | February 25, 2010
Patricia Newman is a terrific attorney!
When I needed a divorce lawyer, I was extremely fortunate to have found Patricia Newman. I just used the Oregon Bar Association's referral line, and her name came up. At our first meeting, I was impressed by Patricia's no-nonsense manner, her knowledge of the law, and her sense of what I'd call informed empathy. She felt for me, yet she did not let that interfere with her accurate assessment of my situation and my prospects. Patricia discussed my case thoroughly with me, informing me not only of the applicable law, but also, out of her extensive experience, of my options and the ways the case would probably proceed. She gave me an hour of her time so that she could become acquainted with my case and so that I could decide whether I wanted her to represent me. By the end of that session, I knew I'd found someone who would fight on my behalf and who would give me her honest opinions about my choices--while honoring my right to make my own choices. Over the next year, as my ex-wife's lawyer dragged her feet, that I should listen to Patricia's advice. She predicted every step, and she was able to strategize ways of bringing the case to as quick a conclusion as possible. At every step I knew that I was in capable hands, and I always felt well informed. To the extent that I followed Patricia's advice, my case came out well. In the couple of instances when I chose my own way, well, Patricia allowed me to make those choices (of course, she advised me to act otherwise), but in the end I wish I had followed her advice. Still, I value the fact that she never tried to strong-arm me into a choice I wasn't ready to make. A couple of years later, my ex-wife declared bankruptcy, and one of her creditors tried to collect from me. I immediately contacted Patricia, who was able to give me some general advice before connecting me with an excellent bankruptcy lawyer. Patricia is very well connected within the Portland legal community, and she uses her network to her clients' advantage. Overall, I think I got the best divorce attorney I possibly could have, and I think that Patricia Newman is not just an attorney--she deserves to be called "Counselor." She has my gratitude and my highest possible recommendation.
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Posted by Lisbeth | February 11, 2010
PATRICIA NEWMAN –-MADE AN ALMOST UNBEARABLE TIME IN MY LIFE BEARABLE!
Thanks to Patricia Newman’s experienced professional guidance and skillful leadership, I can gratefully report that after living a good 3 years in ‘loose-ended, divorce/child support/parenting plan.version16 limbo- land’, I reached the light at the end of the tunnel and happily have emerged on the other side, practically reborn, and with a so-called ‘new life’. From the onset, Pat won my deepest respect for her level-headed, intelligent, thorough approach in the analyzing, strategizing, preparation, and ultimately the court-negotiating and- resolution process of my re-opened case, - or ‘can of worms’, is more like it! As referenced complimentarily in another review, Pat’s demeanor, as I experienced it, -composed, candid, rational, firm and direct, yet caring, personable and very understanding, proved instrumental and necessary paired with my conflict-shy, people-pleasing tendencies and opposition’s extremely difficult nature. Additionally, I wish to echo what other reviewers have touched upon also, the fact that Pat, has an incredibly beneficial knowledge of area Family Law Courts and their Judges, and with this knowledge, tailors her case strategy accordingly. In the end, the positive, reasonable outcome of our case, clearly evidenced Pat’s diligent expert superb legal navigation in this matter- that happened to be very much my reality! I am grateful for your effort -thank you Pat!
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Posted by Tishia | February 8, 2010
My Experience with Patricia Newman
I met Pat when my husband was going through his child custody case with his ex in 1998. My ex and I, at the time, had a parenting plan in place for our own children. Pat did a wonderful job with my husband's case and we received, and still have, joint custody of his daughter, Kylie. Pat helped us understand that the best way to raise Kylie was by working together with her mom to raise Kylie. 2 years later, in 2000, my ex and I started having issues with our parenting plan and I called Pat for help. Pat worked with my ex (he insisted on representing himself) and me to work out a plan for custody of our 3 boys. After many difficult months, (my ex can be a very difficult person to deal with, to say the least) Pat was able to create a joint custody parenting plan that was fair and she was able to get my attorney fees paid by my ex for all the time he wasted in court and out. She did an amazing job for me and helped me deal with the stress and anger I had while going through the whole process. 6 years later, 5 days before Christmas, I was served with papers from my ex stating that he had filed for full custody. He had been arguing and fighting with the boys and blamed me for "ruining his relationship with his children". Frantic, I called Pat, and I can honestly say, she saved my sanity. She led me step by step through everything that needed to be done while keeping me focused on the most important thing, the children. During the next 2 years of unbelievable actions and delays that my ex and his attorney put us through, Pat kept me informed, focused, calm, and was with me every step of the way. She kept me grounded when I thought I was going crazy. She remained calm when my ex and his attorney did everything in their power to waste time and money. 2 years, 2 months, and 5 days later, I had full custody and my attorney fees paid by my ex...again. Going through a custody battle is one of the hardest things to deal with...for all parties involved. Mine was the worst thing I have ever gone through in my life. Having Pat by my side through the whole ordeal made it so much easier. She is professional, thorough, and willing to work hard for her clients. I have dealt with other attorneys in the past and I can say without a doubt, that Pat truly cares about her clients. I have and will continue to recommend her to anyone who needs help.
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Posted by Catherine | January 26, 2010
Pat Newman - The Best
From the moment I met Pat Newman, I knew she was the lawyer for me. She impressed me deeply with her professional knowledge, her knowledge of the courts, lawyers and judges in the area, and with her thoughtful intelligence. She gives sage advice, explains the complexities of law clearly, and is the perfect person to have "in your corner". I recommend her highly.
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Posted by Michael | January 26, 2010
Patricia Newman: Professional and experienced with compassion and understanding of your difficult position, she cares.
Pat acted in a most professional manner from a business standpoint without losing sight of the fact that you are in a struggle for the most important aspect of your life, your child. She was very sensitive yet firm to impress upon you the need for coherent, calm and rational decision making when in your heart you are in a lot of pain and want to make decisions based on anger and resentment. Her preperation and attention to detail was superior as was her court presence. She is familiar with most of the other family law attorneys and the judges that hear family law cases and these relationships have a tremendous impact on the outcome of your case. Pat did a terrific job from start to finish.
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Posted by Sam | January 22, 2010
HONESTY WITH RESULTS!
Patricia helped make my life livable again! Patricia handled my divorce and bankruptcy with sensitivity, calm, and results. When I felt like the world was falling apart Patricia helped chart a legal course of action that resolved my issues and met my needs. I owe a great debt of gratitude to Patricia. She helped me at a point in my life when I felt no help was possible. Her expert legal skill is only matched by her compassion. I will forever be grateful and my life better for the experience of working with her.
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Posted by Jessica | January 19, 2010
Back bone and perspective
I have referred many friends in the unfortunate situation of needing a family law attorney for their custody case. My custody case still looms as one of the darkest times in my life and I wanted so much for things to just stop being "bad." It was under that cloud that I was referred to Pat through an EAP that my company subscribes to and called her from their recommendation. I knew the first time I met her that she was the lawyer I needed: candid and direct, knowledgeable and experienced, humorous and understanding. She navigated the most terrifying time of my life with me and kept me focused on the most important part of my case: my daughter. She helped me identify when my ex and I were making decisions based on our fear of losing our daughter and not on her best interests. She let me know when I was doing well and guided me through the overwhelming legal hoops of custody. In the end she helped me negotiate Child Support and a Parenting Plan that agreed with my personal ethics yet still kept me and my daughter safe. She was candid with me when I was being unnecessarily fearful and kept me calm when overwhelmed emotionally by my circumstances. Pat's demeanor nicely countered my passivity. She helped me feel brave when I was not and gave me calm moments because I trusted her to guide me in the right direction. At the end of my case Pat also gave me good advice for future dealings with my ex over our daughter's life and that advice still helps me 2 years later.
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Posted by Dale | March 22, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Smart, Tough and with just the right amount of compassion
Nobody likes to hear the words "I am in love with another woman" especially not after 17 years of marriage. Pat was such a solid voice of reason for me at a tough and very emotional time. She was just the right amount of smart, tough and compassionate. I consider myself very lucky to have had her on my team. She knows her stuff and was good at presenting things as a lay person could understand. I truly felt through the whole process she genuinely cared about me and getting an outcome I would be happy with. She succeeded and was very fairly priced as well. She gets high recommendations from me!
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Cost

Rates
  • Hourly Rates $ 295-295 per hour
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.1 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Attorney at Law
  • Law Offices of Patricia A. Newman
  • 1993 - Present

Education

  • University of Oregon School of Law
  • Juris doctor
  • 1983
  • State University of New York, Stony Brook
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1978

Associations

  • Oregon State Bar
  • Member
  • 1983 - Present
  • Multnomah Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1983 - Present
  • Oregon State Bar, Family Law Section
  • Member
  • 1983 - Present
  • Washington State Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1985 - 2023
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Avvo Client's Choice 2010 and 2012
  • Avvo
  • 2012

Speaking Engagements

  • Electronic Spying and Tracking Spouses in Divorce Cases: What's Legal in the Digital I World?
  • Continuing Legal Education - Attendee
  • 2020
  • Ethical Considerations in a Virtual Legal Practice: Remote Law Practice During a Pandemic Series
  • Continuing Legal Education - Attendee
  • 2020
  • Navigating the Changing Family Law Landscape During the COViD-19 Crisis
  • Continuing Legal Education - Attendee
  • 2020
  • Dealing With Clients And Attorneys With Substance Abuse & Mental Health Issues
  • Continuing Legal Education - Attendee
  • 2020
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (8)
Given (2)
Endorse Patricia
Unknown Attorney | Apr 23
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I was opposing counsel. I have known Pat for probably 30 years. She is a strong advocate for her clients. She is knowledgeable about the law and our local court systems. She is dedicated and professional. I have referred cases to her. We have also consulted on cases over the years."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Aug 17
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Pat is tough, fair, and a consummate professional. She is an effective and efficient problem solver. I recommend her highly."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Mar 16
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Pat Newman is a terrific lawyer. I have worked with Pat on a number of cases involving division of pension and retirement interests incident to divorce (QDROs), and she has called on me on many occasions for consultation on a variety of other legal matters. She demonstrates a consistently high level of legal knowledge, superior analytical ability, and excellent skills of legal advocacy on behalf of her clients, all enhanced by years of experience in practicing her craft. In her dealings with colleagues, her ethical and professional standards are second to none. I hold her in high regard and respect and have no hesitation in recommending her to anyone in need of family law legal services."
Family Attorney | Oct 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Jul 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work. She is professionally courteous and is very knowledgeable about the applicable laws."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Apr 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Pat is an experienced, smart attorney. I just brainstormed a complicated jurisdictional issue with her and found her to be remarkably thoughtful and helpful."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Jan 19
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer's work. I have had several divorce cases with Ms. Newman and I find her to be diligent, level headed, thorough and focused on conflict resolution."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Jan 15
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I have had Patricia Newman as opposing counsel on both dissolution and child custody cases. She is a highly effective advocate for her clients, and a pleasure to work with. What distinguishes Ms. Newman from a lot of other attorneys is her ability to quickly come up very practical and realistic solutions in emotionally charged cases, really cutting to the essence of the case. When I find out Ms. Newman is opposing counsel on a case I am involved, I know I will be dealing with an experienced and highly professional advesary."
View more endorsements
Divorce and separation