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John Stocks

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Avvo Rating9.8
  • Auburn, WA
  • Licensed for 29 years
  • Free consultation
John Stocks
John Stocks
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About John

Calm, experienced, and tenacious on your side. For a Free Consultation call 253-766-4890

As I look back on almost 30 years of practice, I have loved being a lawyer.  I have experience and success in a variety of fields, which has made me more well-rounded compared to those who emphasize only 1 or 2 areas of law.

I have obtained several rewarding and high settlements for clients in employment law, divorces, personal injury, civil rights and police misconduct cases. I obtained the highest jury verdict in Spokane County ($3 million) against a Sheriff's office for misconduct against my clients. I am a well-rounded trial attorney who has litigated a wide range of cases, including taking cases through mediation, arbitration, and if needed, trial and appeals courts. I have done thousands of both bench and jury trials.

In law school, they told us in orientation that a high percentage of lawyers wish they did not go to law school and become a lawyer, so I am in the minority - I would not change a thing.  The law is for me.  I am a "lifer", which means I will practice law until they drag me away.

I decided to become a lawyer after the Major League Baseball peoples did not draft me in the first few rounds when I was 18.  I pitched several "1 hitters" (yes, 1 hitters, not "no hitters") in high school and for American Legion at ages 16-18, however, I lacked a 4th pitch (slider, curve, and knuckle-curve was all I had).  Anyway, I also loved playing basketball and football, but when old age set in (age 24+), I began playing softball and have really enjoyed that over the years, until really old age set in (age 40+), and now I don't play as much.  Trying to pick up golf cuz I see a lot of older people out there swinging the clubs, but the last few years I have focused on Tennis.  I like martial arts, sports on t.v., great movies, great food, and being happy.  I had not traveled around the world much, until I met my wife, Hong, who has taken me to China many times now (wow, it is really cool).  My focus outside of work is my daughter, JoJo and her life!  Anyway, I still spend a lot of time doing work because I am obsessed with deadlines, client problems and being the best lawyer I possibly can.

Practice areas

Criminal defenseChild supportChild custodyDivorce and separation
  1. Divorce and separation: 75%

    John Stocks has extensive experience in Family Law, from the complex divorce to the simple uncontested case. He states: "I use a wife range of tools & techniques to resolve cases -- trials, mediations, arbitrations, and negotiations)." This includes divorce, custody, child support, alimony, adoptions, property awards, & same-sex agreements/agreements.

    29 years, 1,500 cases

  2. Child custody: 10%

    John Stocks has tried, mediated, & solved thousands of parenting plan & custody issues since 1991 as a advocate, trial lawyer and mediator. He states: "Clients are passionate & emotional about their children & I have learned how to balance this with the law to protect my client's interests and rights."

    29 years, 1,100 cases

  3. Child support: 10%

    John Stocks thrives with financial records and math calculations (child support worksheets). He states: "most attorneys went to law school to avoid math; but not me, I love math!" When it comes to calculating child support or other financial issues, I don't shy away.

    29 years, 5,000 cases

  4. Criminal defense: 5%

    John Stocks has successfully handled over 10,000 criminal counts/charges against his clients since 1991, ranging from serious felonies, including white collar crimes, Class A, B, and C felonies, down to the simple misdemeanors. He states: "I rarely consider a guilty plea because fighting the charges will often result in the best result."

    29 years, 200 cases

Languages spoken

French, Russian

Contact

721 45th St Ne
address map

721 45th St Ne
Auburn, WA, 98002-1303

Website
www.vansiclen.com

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
WAActive199110/18/2020
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers152
Legal guides2
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2017
Best AttorneyAuburn Reporter2014
Best Attorney - finalistAuburn Reporter2013
Best Attorney - finalist (top 2)Auburn Voters - Auburn Reporter2011
Super LawyerSuper Lawyers Magazine2011
Best Attorney - finalist (top 2)Auburn Voters - Auburn Reporter2010
Best Attorney - finalists (top 2)Auburn Voters - Auburn Reporter2009
Best Attorney - 1st PlaceAuburn Voters - Best of Auburn2008
Who's Who in Family LawN/A2007
Employee and Lawyer of the YearN/A2006
VIP MemberContinental Who's Who National Business Leaders2006
Rising Star NomineeN/A2005
Marketing DirectorN/A2004
AcknowledgementThe Pacific Institute2003
Recruiting PartnerN/A2001
Certificate Re: GAL and Title 13 OAC TrainingN/A2000
Managing PartnerN/A1996
Juris DoctorN/A1991
American Jurisprudence AwardN/A1989
Law Review Top 5% in Law SchoolN/A1989
Full ScholarshipInternational Business Food Clinic1988
University of Washington Dean's ListN/A1988
Bachelor of Arts Business - Magna Cum LaudeN/A1988
AwardPhi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity International1987
Full Tuition ScholarshipUniversity of Washington Alumnae1987
University of Washington Dean's ListN/A1986
National Honor Fraternity AwardPhi Theta Kappa National Honor Fraternity1986
National Honor SocietyCentralia Community College1986
President's List of Honored StudentsN/A1985
President's List of Honor StudentsCentralia Commuity College1984
ScholarshipWestern International Band Clinic1984
State Champion - Percussion/PianoWashington State1984
Beta Gamma SigmaBega Gamma Sigma University of Washington1983
State ChampionAll-Star Baseball Fastpitch Colt League1982
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
MemberEagles2007 - Present
MemberAuburn Elks2007 - Present
MemberAuburn Noon Lions2006 - Present
PartnerVan Siclen, Stocks & Firkins1998 - Present
PartnerVan Siclen & Stocks1995 - 1998
AssociateSmythe & Van Siclen1991 - 1994
Law ClerkBurgess Fitzer1990 - 1991
Law ClerkSwanson Parr Cordes Younglove Peoples and Wycoff1988 - 1989
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
Auburn Area Chamber of CommerceBoard Member2014 - Present
Tacoma Pierce County Bar AssociationMember2007 - Present
Selective Service SystemLocal Board Member2003 - Present
King County Bar AssociationMember1991 - Present
USSSA Softball World PlayerMember1987 - Present
Oregon State BarMember2002 - 2002
Auburn Chamber of CommerceMember1999 - 2007
American Trial Lawyers AssociationMember1994 - 1999
Washington State Trial Lawyers AssociationMember1992 - 2007
American Civil Liberties UnionMember1992 - 1999
American Bar AssociationMember1991 - 2007
Washington State Bar AssociationLawyer1991 - 2007
South King County Bar AssociationMember1991 - 2007
Washington Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMember1991 - 1999
Seattle University Law ReviewEditor1989 - 1991
University of Puget Sound Law ReviewEditor1989 - 1991
Professional organizations and associationsMember1987 - 1988
Phi Alpha Delta Law FraternityMember1987 - 1988
University of WashingtonDean's List1986 - 1988
Phi Theta Kappa National Honor FraternityMember1985 - 1986
National Honor SocietyMember1984 - 1988
Publications
Publication nameTitleDate
4 Options (Relationships)4 Options to a Family in Turmoil - VSSF2015
Auburn ReporterFamily Law Questions and Answers2006
King County JournalFamily Law2006
Van Siclen, Stocks and Firkins NewsletterMediation - The Process2006
Van Siclen, Stocks & Firkins PublicationFamily Law Litigation Disclosure2005
Washington Business AssociationHow to obtain a Mechanic's Lien1992
Juvenile Cases ReporterSummary of Juvenile Court Cases1989
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
Seattle University School of LawJuris Doctor1991
University of WashingtonBachelor's of Arts1988
Centralia Community CollegeAssociates1986
Olympia High SchoolHigh School Diploma1984
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
UW and Seattle UJudge Trial2013
Van Siclen, 40 yearsRe-swearing after 40 years2008
Mock TrialJudging Mock Trial2008
Mock TrialMock Trial Skills2007
Mock TrialMock Trial2007
Moot CourtMoot Court Arguments2006
VS & F ConferenceER 904: procedural and substantive pointers2005
The Physician Patient Privilege VisitedWSTLA Roundtable: The Physician Patient Privilege Re: Subsequent Treating Doctor1992
Legal cases
Case nameOutcome
Wife of 11 years versus HusbandCustody and Child Support
Puyallup Couple - Attorney's Fees Request$10,000 temporary attorney's fees
Spousal Maintenance (Alimony) and Contempt Against HusbandThe Court of Appeals Reversed Trial Court
Jane Doe v. John DoeObtained substantial spousal maintenance

Reviews

(64)
5 Star
88%
4 Star
0%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
5%
1 Star
8%
Review John Stocks

Professional and Knowledgeable,

Posted by

When I met Mr. Stocks of Van Siclen Stocks & Firkins in 2017, I knew he was the lawyer I had been looking for, he is professional, knowledgeable, and respectful. This was further proven when I was able to see other lawyers in court who were much less knowledgeable and professional than John Stocks. It was also very clear to me that the court respected him. I felt that out of all of the attorneys I saw in the courtroom, I was glad that he was the one representing me. John Stocks always put my best interest and the best interests of my children first. He took the time to understand my position and the opposing party's intention. He has no interest in anything but the truth, he holds your credibility and keeps you on strong footing with the judges. Mr. Stocks has successfully represented me in multiple hearings over the course of my divorce. Most recently, he represented me in my Contempt case. My ex-husband was found to be in contempt of the residential schedule and our child support order. He now has to honor my make-up days, repay back child support and pay my attorney fees (for the second time). John Stocks and his paralegal Shelly Taylor became my allies right from that moment we met, and they continue to guide me through the entire legal process until final orders are signed. I highly recommend Mr. Stocks, as you could not find a better advocate for your child custody/child support cases
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Excellent, Experienced, Professional Attorney

Posted by

We hired John Stocks after reviewing several other Attorneys for my wife's divorce-settlement-theft Contempt-of-Court case against her ex. John was the only Attorney that could confidently visualize a successful path forward for us. John and his team sought out the critical, pertinent facts, put together a very solid case, and represented us in filings, communications, and court appearances. John successfully countered several unjustified aggressive attacks and attempts to evade responsibility and accountability by the other party, and expertly navigated several court hearings, and an appeal, with a final judgement in our favor. After exhausting our pursuit of the other party, John and his team represented us in a Tort Claim to hold the State responsible for their failures that allowed the original theft. John and his team expertly navigated filings, communications, and court hearings which resulted in a successful settlement for us. It took about a year and a half to complete our pursuit for justice and restitution. John represented and supported us throughout this process. John had a casual, friendly, down-to-earth demeanor in all our interactions, understood our loss and pain, and took our case seriously. John knew the law, put together a solid case, and professionally, confidently, successfully represented us in court. We are 100% satisfied with our decision to hire John, and are thankful we found him. Other Attorneys we've used in child support and parenting plan actions did not go as well. I don't understand the negative reviews of John, as we found him, his team, and the office to be very experienced, professional, and attentive regarding our case. We would hire John Stocks to represent us again without hesitation.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Excellent divorce attorney

Posted by

The first thing to say is John knows his stuff. He is connected in the court systems and people respect him. He was straightforward and did not waste any of my time (or money). Very thorough and organized. I think any attorney/client relationship includes doing your own part since you have to supply them the information they need to make your case. John has templates and great questions to keep things on track and flowing smoothly. In the end, I am very pleased with his advice and his ability to get me to the results I was looking for in my divorce and child custody. I would hire him again in a heartbeat.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Outstanding Attorney and Person.

Posted by

I hired John Stocks to represent me when I wanted to protect the best interest of my kids. He met and exceeded my expectations and was very resourceful and creative during the process. I had looked up family law attorney's online and after contacting a few attorneys who were not able to help me for one reason or another. I settled for John. I explained the problem I had, he immediately had a strategy for how I could handle the issue and get a favorable result. He was available immediately for an in person meeting, which was excellent because I was looking to solve this issue immediately. John spoke to me for over an hour, strategizing over the best course of action to take and explaining all options. I have worked with attorneys before, non of them give you their cellphone numbers. John give me his direct cellphone number and asked me to call him directly if I had any questions or concerns. He was the most impressive attorney I have dealt with. I have to say that the entire firm was not only professional, timely and competent on every level...but they also were extremely compassionate to the feelings and issues that this type of case involves. There was not a time that I contacted him that he didn't answer. He understood that the children's best interest is the heart of the matter. If you ever have to retain an attorney for family law matters, I recommend John with absolutely no reservation. I am certain that you will not be disappointed in having John Stocks represent you. He is diligent, humane, and an excellent negotiator; he will fight for you. I would like to say a big thank you to John Stocks and all your crew.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

VERY PROMPT AND DETAILED

Posted by

I contacted John Stocks in regards to a collection matter for my business and he and his staff were very prompt to respond with all of the necessary questions they had in order to work on my case. They would answer any question I had during the process clearly and promptly which gave me peace of mind!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Excellent Choice

Posted by

I personally used Mr. Stocks in my divorce. In a divorce, you need an attorney that has a solid understanding of case law. When you’re in court with John he will stand by you and fight for you and your case till the bitter end. I had two attorneys before finding him and would not trade him for anyone out there. He also is a genuine guy and he truly understands how hard it is to get through a difficult court battle. He gets it and will guide you every step of the way. He does not play games he works very hard. He has a very well skilled paralegal as well and they are an amazing team! They both get the job accurately and on time which is very important when you are dealing with the courts. My only regret in my case is I did not hire him out the gate! I hope my review helps you make a good decision in choosing a experienced attorney!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Thorough and Detailed

Posted by

I have a complex contentious custody situation that requires an attorney that can keep up with all the details and cut right to the core of the issues. I've had experience with several attorneys- John stands out from them in several ways. He kept up with me and all the details of my case. John thoroughly explains his legal advice in such a way that helps you to make better decisions for yourself and your case. This is exactly the quality you need in an attorney. Especially with an emotionally charged family legal matter.
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Consulted attorney

John Stocks

Posted by

I hired John Stocks as my divorce attorney. I would hire him again in a heartbeat. I have recommended Mr. Stocks to several colleagues, and they have been just as happy with his services. Mr. Stocks was compassionate, supportive, helpful, aggressive, knowledgable, experienced and guided me through a very difficult time. If I ever need any future services, I would definitely use Van Siclen, Stocks & Firkins again.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Cool Attorney! Very smart and great to work with!

Posted by

John took my theft case, it's been an extremely difficult situation, and I feel protected having him as counsel. He's tough, the same day I hired him he fired out demand letters and got things moving. His demand letters early on helped me obtain a 5 year stalking protection order 3 monthe later. He knows his stuff. Definitely recommend.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Best of the Best

Posted by

I have hired John Stocks to represent me for several legal issues over the past 6 years and I have been very impressed with his work. John Stocks has a great personality that shines through to make you smile during the most difficult times in your life while presenting the facts involved and explaining legal options. I highly recommend John Stocks on a regular basis to anyone who needs legal counsel and have referred many clients which resulted in nothing but positive feedback. John Stocks is extremely knowledgeable and professional and is known for working many hours through the night to ensure we have reviewed and prepared for everything we need in court and I will continue to hire him if I ever need an attorney.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
See all reviews

Attorney endorsements

(21)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Natalie De Maar

I endorse this lawyer. John is a hardworking and excellent attorney. He is extremely knowledgeable and obtains good outcomes for his clients.

Patricia Steele, Divorce and separation Attorney on Jun 11, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. John Stocks in an aggressive advocate with a common sense approach to his cases that is both refreshing and effective. I would recommend him to anyone dealing with family law issues.

Jill Rogers

A very knowledge and competent attorney. I endorse this lawyer.

Thomas Baldwin, Divorce and separation Attorney on Feb 2, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Michael Waddington, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 12, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse John. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community.

Alexis Singletary, Divorce and separation Attorney on Feb 6, 2014
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

John is professional and knowledgeable. I am confident that the clients I refer to him will receive good, competent representation and strong advocacy.

Kathryn Abele, Child custody Attorney on Jan 17, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

John is a fantastic attorney and a good man. Any client would be well-served to have John help them with their family law issues.

Deborah Gordon, Divorce and separation Attorney on Jan 15, 2014
Relationship: Co-worker

I endorse this lawyer.

Andrekita Silva, Divorce and separation Attorney on Dec 29, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Christopher Benson, Divorce and separation Attorney on Jul 23, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. John has an excellent reputation in the legal community and is known for high quality client representation.

Jeffrey Caffee

With over 20 years of experience working on Family Law (and other) legal issues, John Stocks is one of the most respected Family Lawyers in Washington.

Daniel Cook, Family Attorney on Oct 18, 2012
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

John is a great lawyer. He is great in the courtroom and works long hours to serve his clients well. He does his homework, including legal research, and makes strong arguments even when the facts appear to be against him.

Todd DeVallance, Family Attorney on Jun 29, 2011
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

I endorse this lawyer. John has been a opposing counsel on several cases. He is strong advocate for his clients.

Andrew Kim, Family Attorney on May 16, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Joshua Foreman, Family Attorney on Jul 24, 2010
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

I enthusiastically endorse this lawyer's work. John Stocks and his firm, Van Siclen, Stocks, and Firkins, a full service firm in Auburn, WA, do excellent work. He would be a good choice for a matter anywhere from Tacoma to Seattle, especially the Maleng Justice Center in Kent. His firm combines hard-hitting, effective representation of their clients with the highest standards of courtesy and professionalism. Here's just one example of something you should know about him: John did something absolutely amazing -- he argued a case before the Supreme Court of the United States . . . when he was only 25 years old -- that's not a misprint; he was twenty-five, not long out of law school. You would expect to see an attorney like John practicing law on a high floor of a big building in downtown Seattle; Auburn is lucky to have him.

Michael Zoretic, Divorce and separation Attorney on Jan 28, 2009
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer's work. John is very bright and tenacious in protecting his client's interests.

Tamara Roe, Criminal defense Attorney on May 30, 2008
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I recommend John Stocks because he is a persuasive advocate for all of his clients. He is knowledgeable and works hard to effectively and efficiently meet his clients' goals.

Janel Ostrem, Family Attorney on May 29, 2008
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I strongly endorse John Stocks. He is a thoughtful, compassionate, yet aggressive attorney whose years of experience make him one of the most well-respected and admired attorneys in South King County.

Joseph Baker, Family Attorney on Jan 17, 2008
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

John is a bright, caring, charismatic attorney who gets results. Period. I would recommend him every day of the week and twice on Sunday.

Tyler Firkins, Divorce and separation Attorney on Jun 6, 2007
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer's work. John is an agressive and effective lawyer that can help you. I highly recommend him.

Cost

RATES
  • Hourly Rates$400-$400/hour
  • Free Consultation Some lawyers offer a free consultation to help determine whether their services are right for your legal needs30 minutes
PAYMENT METHODS

Cash, Check, Credit Card

Legal guides written by John Stocks