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Brook D Wood

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Avvo Rating8.9
  • Portland, OR
  • Licensed for 11 years
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About Brook

 

While in law school, Brook undertook a much-varied courseload to ensure he received the broadest legal education possible. Brook graduated in the spring of 2009 and joined the Oregon State Bar that fall.

Prior to enrolling in law school Brook worked in an entomology laboratory, collecting data on resistance development in pests of transgenic cotton and co-authoring several publications on the subject. He has always maintained wide interests, having given of his time to support the arts, the environment, and other charities. Away from the law Brook enjoys sports and exploring all that Oregon has to offer with his wife and their dogs.

 

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Practice areas

OtherElder lawContracts and agreementsProbateLawsuits and disputes
  1. Lawsuits and disputes: 35%

    Brook has experience in many different types of civil disputes, ranging from commercial collections and breach of contract to legal malpractice, defamation, and elder financial abuse.

    12 years

  2. Probate: 25%

    Brook has experience in the administration of small estates and the probate of both testate and intestate estates too large to qualify for that simplified process. Additionally, he has advised clients regarding probate disputes such as claims against estates and will contests.

    12 years

  3. Contracts and agreements: 20%

    Helping clients to understand and enforce their contract rights is a regular part of Brook's practice, as well as drafting contracts of various types including settlements, shareholder buy-sell agreements, stock and asset purchases, etc.

    12 years

  4. Elder law: 15%

    Elder financial abuse is an important issue to Brook, who has experience representing both plaintiffs and defendants in these matters.

    12 years

  1. Estate planning: 5%

    One of Brook's favorite practice areas is estate planning because it is one of the rare legal specialties in which he gets to help clients avoid problems rather than fix them after the fact. Brook offers simple wills for single individuals and couples on a flat-fee basis.

    12 years

Languages spoken

English

Photos and videos

1888908 1434462015

Contact

Smith McDonald Vaught & Rudolph LLP

1100 SW Sixth Avenue
Suite 1400
Portland, OR, 97204

      Resume

      License
      StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
      ORActive200905/11/2021
      We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
      Avvo Contributions
      Legal answers556
      Legal guides2
      Awards
      Award nameGrantorDate granted
      Top ContributorAvvo.com2018
      Top ContributorAvvo.com2016
      Top ContributorAvvo.com2014
      Top ContributorAvvo.com2013
      Copper AwardUnited Way of Tucson and Southern ArizonaN/A
      Work Experience
      TitleCompany nameDuration
      AttorneySmith McDonald Vaught & Rudolph LLP2020 - Present
      AttorneyIntelekia Law Group LLC2017 - 2020
      ShareholderOwens, Pinzelik, Wood & Schaff, P.C.2015 - 2016
      ShareholderOwens, Sneller, Pinzelik, Wood & Schaff, P.C.2015 - 2015
      ShareholderOwens, Sneller, Pinzelik & Wood, P.C.2011 - 2015
      AssociateDavid W. Owens, P.C. & Associates2009 - 2011
      Law ClerkDavid W. Owens, P.C. & Associates2008 - 2009
      Associations
      Association namePosition nameDuration
      Oregon State Bar, Professionalism CommitteeMember2018 - Present
      Oregon State Bar, Elder Law Section, CLE Programs SubcommitteeMember2018 - Present
      Oregon State Bar, Elder Law SectionMember2017 - Present
      Oregon State Bar, Fee Arbitration ProgramArbitrator/Mediator2014 - Present
      Oregon State Bar, Estate Planning and Administration SectionMember2012 - Present
      Multnomah Bar AssociationMember2010 - Present
      Publications
      Publication nameTitleDate
      Blog Article4 Reasons to Make a Will that Have Nothing to Do with Your Assets2020
      Blog ArticleHow to Protect Yourself from Elder Abuse2020
      Blog ArticleHB3007 and Changes to Oregon's Small Estate Process2019
      Blog ArticleElder Abuse and What You Can Do About It2018
      Blog ArticlePlanning for Your Digital Assets2018
      Oregon State Bar, Elder Law SectionFactors to Consider When Deciding Whether to File a Civil Action for Abuse2018
      Blog ArticleThe Myth of "the Estate's Attorney"2017
      Blog ArticleHow to Respond to a Small Claims Lawsuit2017
      Blog ArticleProtecting Deceased Loved Ones from Identity Theft2015
      Blog ArticleThe College Send Off Done Right2013
      Blog ArticleUnderstanding the Legal and Practical Risks of Social Media2013
      Blog ArticleOregon Small Claims Court – Getting Started2013
      Blog ArticleHow to Keep your Legal Fees Down2013
      Blog ArticleDon’t Step in That… Common Estate Planning Mistakes2012
      Blog ArticleDon’t Step in That… Common Estate Planning Mistakes, Part 22012
      Blog ArticleOregon Transfer-on-Death Deeds – A New Club for your Estate Planning Bag?2012
      Blog ArticleThe American Rule & Oregon Small Contract Claims2012
      Blog ArticleCommon Neighborly Disputes2012
      Blog ArticleWhat's the Big Deal? Why You Need a Will2011
      Education
      School nameDegreeGraduated
      Lewis & Clark Northwestern Law SchoolJD - Juris Doctor2009
      University of ArizonaBS - Bachelor of Science2002
      Speaking Engagements
      Conference nameTitleDate
      Community Outreach Open HouseEstate Planning for Veterans and Their Families2015
      Community Outreach Open HouseEstate Planning for Veterans and Their Families2014
      Legal cases
      Case nameOutcome
      J.M. & D.Z. v H.S.Client awarded over $47,000 in damages and the authority to conduct and complete repairs without need for Neighbor's permission
      C.P. v T.L.B. & J.D.B.Judgment in favor of victim for treble damages totalling nearly $1,700,000, and attorney fees awarded to niece for bringing suit.
      R.B. v. S.B.C.M., Inc.Favorable Settlement
      R.B.I. & M.C.C. v E.I.A.C. & E.A.G.L.E.I.Settlement in Clients' favor
      B.D. v. F.L.D.Judgment for client dismissing with prejudice
      O.E., Inc. v. R.C. & S.C.Judgment in Client's favor for full amount
      O.E., Inc. v. C.S.Settlement in client's favor for full amount
      T.H. v. C.P.Settlement in client's favor for full amount
      Estate of J.J.R.Estate properly probated and closed.
      Estate of G.J.Estate properly probated and closed.
      K.A.L. v. J.M.L.Settlement in client's favor, paying $4,000 on judgment for $8,400

      Reviews

      (7)
      5 Star
      		100%
      4 Star
      		0%
      3 Star
      		0%
      2 Star
      		0%
      1 Star
      		0%
      Review Brook Wood

      Brook Wood's legal services representing our interest in a contract issue

      Posted by

      My husband and I were referred to Intelekia Law Group by a family practice attorney with whom we'd had a successful relationship. The outcome of our contract legal issue has been what we had hoped for, but more importantly Brook did an exemplary job of explaining our options at initial consultation and addressing in a timely manner and with clear explanation each step throughout the process. We would not hesitate to engage Brook in the future on legal matters within his scope of practice and recommend him highly.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney
      Brook Wood's response: Thank you for the much appreciated compliments, Susi. It was my pleasure assisting you and your husband in this matter.

      Integrity, Professionalism and Knowledge

      Posted by

      Mr. Brook Wood was handling a lawsuit for my company. He worked tirelessly on my case to bring it to completion. I am happy to say that we did win the case, but also I want to specifically point out an issue that arose during the case: A company, "X", that delivered the notification to an out of state party made a mistake in not sending an invoice when requested, to be able to add into the amount to be collected. After contacting X multiple times, we had no choice but to close the amount. Three months later the company X sent and invoice and a "Rush fee". Mr. Wood told me that he was going to attempt to get me a reduction on the amount because it was unfair. He told me that the amount was not large, but it was the principle that was the issue there. He did not bill me for his time addressing this issue. It was not about money, it was about principles and Mr. Wood is a man of principles besides being an excellent, efficient and knowledgeable attorney. I will, without any doubt recommend Mr. Wood's services not only for his professionalism, and knowledge, but also for his integrity. Thank you Mr. Wood, it is always a pleasure working with you!
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney
      Brook Wood's response: Elizabeth, your compliments are appreciated more than I can tell you. I am glad we were able to resolve both the legal matter and the third-party billing issue in your favor.

      Will, advanced directive, POA

      Posted by

      My husband and I had our wills made by Brooks. It was quick and easy. Customized our documents to our exact liking. Highly recommend for estate needs. We appreciated getting everything signed and notarized at his office.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Stellar attorney

      Posted by

      I came to Brook Wood earlier this year with a very difficult case. After my first consultation I knew he was the attorney who was knowledgeable on my case and could help me. He always was excellent at communicating and responding to my many emails! He stayed on top of dates and when things needed to be filed. Always explained things to me in a way I would "get it"!! Which I greatly appreciated! I give Brook five stars and would highly recommend him for any legal matters you may find yourself in! Top notch professional!
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney
      Brook Wood's response: Thank you, Becki, for the kind words. It was my pleasure representing you in this matter.

      Superb service and client relationship skills

      Posted by

      I hired Mr. Brook Wood for a wage claim case in OR (and I live in Colorado) after numerous attempts to solve the issue directly with the company. I am extremely happy with the services that Mr. Brook Wood provided for me. His service and client relationship skills were superb! His communication with me was great, fast and honest throughout the process. His knowledge on the area was great and the information that was given to me was helpful and right to the point. Mr. Brook Wood put a human touch on all his professional dealings, which made the process much easier and pleasant for me as a client. I absolutely recommend Mr. Brook Wood as your attorney.
      Brook Wood's response: Thank you so much for the kind words. It was a pleasure representing you.

      Excellent customer service, knowledgable and dedicated

      Posted by

      My best customer service experience ever was with Brook Wood. He delivered better than agreed and impressed me with his detailed knowledge of law. Brook stayed the course with me and I will not hesitate using his services again.
      Brook Wood's response: Thank you very much, sir. I am happy we were able to come to a resolution that worked for you.

      Responsive and Educational Collections

      Posted by

      Very productive working with Brook. We had business collections in another state ... he reviewed our contract and provided clear statement of our options. When we moved forward, he got his work done quickly and there was little we had to modify around the business conditions. Constantly in touch and great follow-up.
      Brook Wood's response: The kind words are more than appreciated, as was the opportunity to represent you in this matter. This remains, now 2 years later, one of the most satisfying cases I have dealt with.

      Attorney endorsements

      (16)
      Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

      Hovanes Margarian

      I endorse this lawyer.

      Anastatia Ellis, Estate planning Attorney on Dec 12, 2013
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I have read many of Attorney Wood's answers on Avvo, his legal guides and profile, and I believe that he is well-versed in the area of estate planning. I particularly enjoyed his legal guides and his inclusion of estate planning for pets.

      Alexis Brown

      Mr. Wood's responses on Avvo are both insightful and informative. I have no doubt that he represents each of his clients the same way. I endorse Mr. Wood.

      Rachel Sabo, Lawsuits and disputes Attorney on Dec 5, 2013
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer.

      Rebecca Evans

      I endorse this lawyer. It is clear from Mr. Wood's responses to questions posed by Avvo users that he is very knowledgeable in his fields of law and is able to appropriately guide clients in the right direction.

      Matisyahu Wolfberg, Contracts and agreements Attorney on Nov 22, 2012
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer.

      Jodie Sneller

      I highly recommend Mr. Wood. Brook joined the firm as a law clerk in 2008, then as an attorney in 2009, and, along with myself, became a shareholder in 2011. Since I first began working with him I recognized Brook's ability to understand a client's issue and ferret out the right answer to most any problem.

      David Owens

      I have no hesitations endorsing Mr. Wood. I hired Brook as a law clerk during his final year of law school and he has been a strong contributor to this firm ever since. Brook joined the firm as an attorney in 2009 after passing the Bar exam, and, in 2011 became a shareholder in the firm. I have every confidence in his abilities to represent this firm and its clients.

      Gary Kester, Estate planning Attorney on Oct 23, 2012
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer.

      Raphael Moore, Business Attorney on Oct 18, 2012
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Good insight, and practical answers to community questions.

      Christian Lassen

      Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community.

      Howard Lewis, Lawsuits and disputes Attorney on Oct 13, 2012
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Wood is an outstanding attorney with an excpetional reputation. He is a strong and zealous advocate for his clients and a credit to the legal profession. I highly recommend his legal services.

      Harry Konst

      I've been following Mr. Wood's posts on Avvo and find him to be very knowledgeable and well spoken on issues of the law. I endorse him. www.KonstLaw.com

      Cameron Levine, Lawsuits and disputes Attorney on Oct 8, 2012
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Brook is intelligent, driven, and passionate about his work. I have no hesitations endorsing him.

      Joshua Pond

      I went to law school with Brook and know him to be a man of integrity. He will treat your case with the due diligence it deserves. On top of that, he is part of a legal team at his firm that can't be beat. They have a wealth of experience stretching back decades. You can't go wrong with Brook.

      Levi Johnston, Probate Attorney on Sep 27, 2012
      Relationship: Friend

      Brook's integrity, work ethic, and commitment to his clients is unparalleled; I cannot speak highly enough of his services. He is the attorney that I feel most comfortable recommending to members of my family for their estate and probate needs. I am pleased to have had that opportunity in the past, and I will continue to recommend him in the future.

      Cost

      RATES
      • Hourly Rates$225-$350/hour
        PAYMENT METHODS

        Cash, Check, Credit Card