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Robert Charles Kaufman

Divorce and separation Attorney at Bellevue, WA

4.8   38 reviews
  • State Years
    Washington - WA 41 years
    New Jersey - NJ 44 years
  • Licensed for 41 years
    State WA
    Acquired 1982
    Status
    Active Lawyer disciplined by state licensing authority in 2019
  • Licensed for 44 years
    State NJ
    Acquired 1978
    Status
    License Administratively Revoked

About Robert

Learn Robert’s areas of practice.

Serving The Community Since 1978

As an experienced family law attorney, Robert C. Kaufman understands the difficult decisions you are facing. He provides knowledgeable, compassionate representation to people in the King County and Snohomish County areas of Washington. Whether you need help with mediation, negotiation or litigation, Mr. Kaufman has the skill to guide you through the process.

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Robert C. Kaufman, PS
2135 112th Ave. NE, Suite 101
Bellevue, WA, 98004

Reviews

4.8 / 5.0
  38 customer reviews
Posted by Ayse Winkler | November 1, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Ayse Winkler Domestic Violence Case.
Robert Kaufman is a great Lawyer; I recommend strongly to anybody who needs an honest and professional Lawyer, I am so glad I found a trust lawyer. Whom I could trust, he handles my case exceptionally well, I appreciate his candor and honesty with my situation. Thank you, Robert Kaufman, for defending me without giving me any difficulties in your attorney fee.
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Posted by Mike | August 14, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Quick help in an emergency
Bob was critical for helping get me through an urgent family issue. He was very fast and compassionate, treated me with respect and kindness, and pursued my case with diligence. He was sensitive to all aspects of a complex situation and I'm grateful for his support during that time.
Posted by Kathryn | May 29, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent, thoughtful service
I contacted Robert Kaufman for divorce assistance. He was kind, thoughtful, and patient, answering all my questions as though he had all the time in the world. I knew after an hour that I wanted him for my divorce lawyer, even though he told me, since the divorce was uncontested, we would probably be fine with a legal tech, rather than a lawyer. But I wanted to work with him because I liked him, trusted his judgement, and appreciated his rates—which are low, given his many years of experience. Everything went smoothly from start to finish, and Bob was always accessible to me by email or phone when I had questions. I recommend him with pleasure.
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Posted by Kimi | April 4, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Light at the End of the Tunnel
Divorce is probably one of the hardest things I’ve had to face in my adult life; however, it was necessary for a happier healthier life for not only myself but for my son as well. Since there was a child involved, my divorce was not an amicable one. Divorce is hard on all parties involved and changing the family dynamic forced me to make some difficult and impossible decisions. This was my first experience retaining an attorney for personal reasons. I didn’t know what to expect and how the process worked. I had met with several attorneys before I met Robert Kaufman (Bob). When I met Bob, I felt completely at ease almost immediately and felt his calm but direct demeanor matched what I needed in order to get through this divorce. My divorce lasted almost a year exactly...primarily due to the battle over the parenting plan. My ex-husband wanted to have joint custody with co-parenting rights; however, made it clear that he only wanted a very limited amount of time with his son. Our primary conflict was residential time, my ex-husband fought to limit his time as much as possible and I was fighting for him to have more time with his son. In the end, I decided that there was no void I could possibly fill for the lack my ex-husband’s willingness to be in our son’s life, so I settled for the little amount of time he was willing to spend him. I know that at the end of the day, my ex-husband is the one missing out. I consulted with Bob a lot on the parenting and child support plan, which was the majority of our communications. Bob was always laid out my options and explained everything in a clear concise manner which I appreciated so much. I am a none confrontational person, and Bob made sure that I knew what my options were and understood them before any decisions were made. Bob in a lot of ways protected me from myself and making sure I didn’t make any brash decisions out of fear of conflict. I am beyond thankful that I chose Bob to represent me and he accepted me as his client. I couldn’t have been in more steady capable hands. He was compassionate while also being direct and action oriented. Being new to the process of divorce and legal system, I had a lot of questions and concerns, Bob was very patient and never made me feel that my questions were silly or my opinions invalid. Thank you, Bob, for getting me through to the light at the end of the tunnel!
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Posted by Craig | July 3, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Family Law Council
Robert (Bob) represented me during my divorce (of 38 years) with the upmost degree of professionalism. The guidance and support he provided maneuvering the legal processes and emotionally charged discussions between parties was superb. He was instrumental in setting realistic expectations around the division of assets while also serving as an advocate protecting my specific areas of interests. It was clear to me that I’d made the right choice for legal representation, I never once doubted my interests were not being served and would gladly hire him again.
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Posted by anonymous | May 9, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great lawyer and Highly Competent
Bob was my attorney for my divorce case. He is very diligent, thorough professional and gave me excellent advice. He fought for me when needed and gave me good insights into structuring parental plan. Divorce is a very painful process and his personal support and advice were extremely helpful. I would highly recommend Robert.
Posted by anonymous | March 9, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Trustworthy, experienced family attorney served me in two cases
Robert was my 2nd attorney for my divorce case in 2016. My 1st attorney made so many wrong judgments that our every move led to a dead end. After throwing 10K+, I got so frustrated and turned to Robert. Robert saved my case! From the beginning, he knew how the case should evolve and explained what to and what not to expect. And yes, the case moved exactly as he promised, no confusion or bad surprise. He fought for my best interest all the time. He fought back the mediator (another exerpericed attorney) with print-out case examples. He succeeded in making the other party to pay most of my attorney fee because they didn't cooperate well. His service is worth every penny. He is also upfront about cost and didn't push me for any unnecessary moves (which cost me a fortune with my 1st attorney). When I needed family attorney in 2017 again, I didn't hesitate to call Robert. And he did the same excellent job again! I would recommend Robert to anyone who is looking for an trustworthy, experienced family attorney.
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Posted by Steve | January 22, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Rock solid representation
My divorce of 2 years ago was amicable but I ended up needing representation to navigate the division of assets, parenting plan and so forth. Robert put together legal documents that were thorough, bulletproof and fair, and did so quickly and compassionately. I can't recommend him enough, especially since issues have come up post-divorce and the signed contracts have saved me a lot of pain.
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Posted by Kameron | July 5, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thorough professional, highly experienced, excellent representation
Divorce can be a truly horrific experience. I consider myself extremely fortunate to have been referred to Robert Kaufman in late 2011 when I faced such circumstances. He is first and foremost professional in demeanor and actions, and well-versed in financial matters. During our first meeting, he adeptly (and patiently) listened, inquired and thoroughly assessed my circumstances. Within a matter of minutes, he had outlined and constructed legal next steps, including recommended actions on my part. As an active father of two sons, the custody and wellbeing of my children was of major importance. While in the end I did not achieve the parenting plan agreement I sought, I can genuinely say that Mr. Kaufman was extremely knowledgeable and versed in child custody law, and put forth every possible effort on my behalf, leveraging every avenue afforded by WA family law towards achieving the desired result. In hindsight years later, I can say that his counsel maximized to the greatest extent possible the residential time I have today with my sons. At no time did he make promises or guarantees, which I appreciated. He will clearly state objectives and strategies, and if you ask a difficult question, he will answer it if possible, but also clearly state when he could not do so in a professional capacity. I have contacted Mr. Kaufman on one or two occasions over the years to answer odd parenting plan questions that come up, and in every encounter his demeanor is welcoming, remembers myself and my children, and is quickly able to retrieve any and all critical documentation and respond in thorough detail. While I highly recommend Mr. Kaufman from the vantage point of a hard-working, engaged father, I will close by saying with confidence that he would also equally represent a hard-working and engaging mother in similar circumstance. WA family law is a treacherous ocean to navigate - Mr. Kaufman is the captain you need at the helm of your ship. You may or may not get the result you desire, but his stable, knowledgeable, insightful counsel is your best option.
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Posted by Tony | January 7, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Confident, competent and efficient - highly recommended
Robert has been my attorney for approximately two years dealing with a divorce from an ambiguous on-off relationship. Robert's manner is reassuring while he explains what to expect and what the law requires every step of the way. With an opposing counsel who was often emotionally antagonistic, Robert stayed the course. Confidently responding to opposing counsel while remaining in control. Divorce is not always a straightforward process and in my case Robert made things go relatively smoothly by representing me superbly. I recommend Robert without reservation.
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Posted by Robert | December 8, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Impressive Attorney
I am Robert B, I am a single father with full custody of my 3 children. Bob took on my case during a very difficult time, my prior attorney had decided to stop practicing law right in the middle of our trial. Bob took over the case on a short notice. I was blessed to have found Bob and blessed he had the time to take on my case. He showed professionalism and compassion for me, not just becuase I was a client either. I would recommend Bob to anyone looking for a skilled expert in family law. Thank you
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Posted by anonymous | November 5, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
ONE CLASS ACT
Right out of the gate I explained to Bob that if he took this case he'd be walking into a psychological thicket. Bob didn't even flinch, 29 insane months later of 2 unsettled mediations, numerous delays, denied motions, conferences with judges, coaching the opposing counsel, walking out of a disorderly deposition, (a first) & 3 days of trial. Bob not only kept his cool during these many absurdities but plowed through shining with his outstanding knowledge of law and presentation! The judge actually awarded me more than what we'd asked for! Bob Kaufman is one class act. Don't hesitate to hire him.
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Posted by Anna | October 20, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Experienced, Professional and Respectful!
Robert Kaufman has represented my interest in court for modification of child support. During this process Bob provided outstanding legal guidance as well as ensuring that my legal cost were efficiently managed for me throughout the process. He was also very responsive via e mail and phone whenever I had questions and compassionate when I was stressed. Bob made sure that I end up with outcome that would be the best for me and my children. I felt that he was caring and kept my family's interest his top priority.
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Posted by Sanjeev | October 20, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Compassionate and competent divorce attorney
Bob was my divorce attorney through a difficult divorce. He helped me through the initial hearing, temporary settlement, mediation and trial. The divorce was hands down the most unpleasant experience of my life. Made worse by my adversarial ex-wife and her shark of an attorney (who made me realize why lawyers are so widely despised and wonder what kind of karma awaits him). Throughout it all, Bob was a calm, compassionate and level-headed presence. He was responsive to my inquiries and advocated for me forcefully when needed. The outcome from the trial could have been better but I have accepted that it is what it is given the legal system and lawyers like my ex-wife's attorney who are willing to lie outright and exploit the system with no scruples. I went into the process wanting to do the right thing and come to a just and equitable settlement with my ex-wife. Bob was the right attorney for me and for what I wanted. Even after the divorce decree, Bob has been quick to respond to my email inquiries. I would definitely recommend him.
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Posted by anonymous | July 13, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent divorce Lawyer
I had a great experience working with Mr. Kaufman throughout my divorce. Mr. Kaufman is very knowledgeable, confident, responsive, empathetic lawyer. Mr. Kaufman always listened to all my concerns, responded in timely manner, explained and discussed the different options for me and always worked for my best interest. Mr. Kaufman is very confident lawyer, he always presented the facts and in all the occasions during the process we successfully got the results we asked for. It was a pleasure working with Mr. Kaufman, I highly recommend him
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Posted by anonymous | June 16, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A great divorce attorney
Mr Kaufman is not only a great attorney he is also a great man. I was caged myself in a bad marriage for years before I met him. Divorce was my only option but unfortunately I was not making enough money to afford an attorney; I did not have any access to our family finances and I was very hopeless. After a research, I had made an appointment with Mr Kaufman for a free consultation. As an immigrant, English was my second language but the legal terms felt like a third language in the beginning. He was very patient with me. He listened to me attentively, explained all the steps that needed to be taken and most importantly he accepted to get my divorce case without getting paid beforehand. Our divorce case eventually became more complicated because my ex- husband started another case in our home country. Handling two divorce cases in two countries was really stressful and challenging for me but Mr Kaufman was always there whenever I needed his help. He was always prompt to return my calls, knowledgeable to answer my questions in a great details and trustworthy to discuss my options honestly. I felt like my voice was heard the first time in years by someone who can help me because of his representation. We got divorced in the US with a 80/20 ratio on my favor. This result gave me an opportunity to start over my life after the age of 52. The other divorce case that my ex husband started in our home country has been still going on. The most impressive part was that when I needed his assistance after our divorce was finalized in the US he continued returning my calls promptly and after reviewing my documents he offered his help to handle the issues. I feel so lucky to have him on my side throughout the hardest time in my life. If you are looking for an attorney who is knowledgeable, trustworthy and dependable stop searching; Mr Kaufman is the one. Thank very much again Mr Kaufman!
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Posted by anonymous | May 20, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Bob Kaufman
Bob is very professional, knowledgeable, friendly and easy to work with. He is prompt and most importantly, from a clients point of view, uses his time well. I would definitely recommend Bob to friends and family.
Posted by Kip | April 12, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Dedicated and Pleasant to Work With
I doubt there are any easy divorces, and hiring a lawyer can be a serious leap-of-faith for anyone. That being said I will testify that from my first visit with Bob I walked out of his office feeling relief and confidence that I was in understanding, compassionate and competent hands. He had the needed experience and skills to assure my interests were fully represented. My divorce was timely, thorough and as painless as can be expected. Thanks Bob.
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Posted by Greg | February 21, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Knowledgable Attorney
Mr. Kaufman was recommended to me by a friend. He was easy to work with and responded quickly to all my questions. He helped get my dissolution resolved quickly during a difficult time for me. I appreciated his help and advice in what is often a long and confusing process.
Posted by Tim | February 19, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Bob Kaufman
Bob was extremely good at listening to my concerns, organizing our objectives and preparing for family court proceedings. His court presentations were smooth, professional and stayed on point. Very easy to work with at a reasonable cost.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 7.6 (Very Good)

Professional misconduct

This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2019.

Reprimand issued in WA, 2019
updated on 05/14/2020

This means the attorney did something wrong, but the Bar did not suspend the lawyer. Typically in this case the lawyer's poor behavior is exposed to the public in hopes that he or she will not repeat the behavior.

Robert's comment: “I agreed to a reprimand for minor bookkeeping errors. In 2014/17 I was frequently out of state attending to my ill father. My bookkeeping fell behind. A random Bar audit found minor errors and retention of small amounts of client/attorney funds too long. The Bar reported no dishonesty or personal gain. I now have an accountant who specializes in trust accounts. My good reviews and AVVO “10” rating show that my 42 year law career has been devoted to ethically taking care of clients’ interests.”

Education

  • Gonzaga University School of Law
  • Juris Doctor
  • 1978
  • University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
  • A.B.
  • 1975

Legal Cases

  • In re Marriage of Howd,P.3d, 2011 WL 4436208, Wash.App. Div. 1, September 26, 2011 (NO. 66054-3-I, 66894-3-I, 66251-1-I)
  • Achieved client's goal of preventing relocation
  • In re Marriage of Mongauzy, P.3d, 161 Wash.App. 1032, 2011 WL 1744444, Wash.App. Div. 1, May 09, 2011 (NO. 64499-8-I)
  • Successfully defended appeal by client's ex-husband of trial court's Decree of Dissolution and Parenting Plan
  • In re Marriage of Daubert and Johnson, 124 Wash.App. 483, 99 P.3d 401, Wash.App. Div. 1, October 25, 2004 (NO. 52237-0-I)
  • Successful appeal of trial court erroneous calculation of support

Associations

  • Washington State Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1982 - Present
  • King County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1982 - Present
  • East King County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1982 - Present
  • Family Law Section of American Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1982 - Present
  • Washington State Bar Association, Family Law Section
  • Member
  • 1982 - Present
  • American Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1978 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Distinguished
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2021
  • Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2021
  • Top Rated Lawyer
  • American Registry
  • 2019
  • "Random Acts of Professionalism" Award
  • Washington State Bar Association
  • N/A
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

  • WSABRB Annual Conference and Training
  • Boundary Review Review Board Practice and Procedure
  • 2019
  • WSABRB Annual Conference and Training
  • Caselaw Update and BRB 101
  • 2018
  • WSABRB Annual Conference and Training
  • Boundary Review Boards
  • 2014
  • WSABRB Annual Conference and Training
  • Conducting Public Hearings
  • 2012
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (13)
Given (13)
Endorse Robert
Family Attorney | May 18
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I had the pleasure of working with Bob as pro hac vice counsel on a matter regarding the interpretation of a client's post nuptial agreement. Bob was extremely helpful in helping me navigate the nuances of Washington law, as well as extremely supportive on substantive questions of law and client management. He went above and beyond and made working on an out-of-state case much easier. I hope he and I have the pleasure of working together again!"
Unknown Attorney | Nov 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Bob is a hardworking attorney who does an excellent job advocating for his clients."
Family Attorney | Oct 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Bob and I regularly talk about cases and use each other as a sounding board. He is smart, experienced and knowledgeable about the law and rules related to family practice. What impresses me is not only Bob's grasp of the legal aspects of cases, but also his willingness to find practical solutions while remaining a strong advocate for his clients. His good nature and sense of humor also makes dealing with him a pleasure."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Aug 12
Relationship: Friend
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Bob and worked with him for better than 30 years. He is smart, knowledgeable and aggressive when necessary. He is accomplished in his handling people, both clients and adversaries.Likewise, his litigation abilities and understanding of the law are without equal. Selecting Bob to represent you is a decision you will not regret."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Mar 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Bob is very hard working and knowledgeable in the area of family law. He takes the time to understand and communicate with his clients, to know what is important to them. These traits help him achieve positive outcomes for his clients."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Jan 16
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I met Bob when I was defending a deposition. My client was, frankly, being a jerk. Bob handled him with care, respect, dignity. He could have gotten quite mad / indignant, or even intimidated. Bob never lost his composure. I was quite impressed."
Unknown Attorney | Sep 19
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Bob is a smart creative attorney with superior advocacy skills. He is dedicated to his clients and zealous in his representation. He is always practical and professional."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Jun 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have know Bob for many years and can confirm he is an experienced lawyer in the family law & divorce practice areas. He has a kind personality & terrific sense of humor which can put the client at ease during difficult emotional times. However, his New Jersey background comes in handy when dealing with difficult opposing counsel."
Family Attorney | Feb 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Kauffman is a dedicated, knowledgeable attorney. During the time I have known him, I have been impressed with his work ethic and his knowledge of family law. I would not hesitate to recommend him for family law matters."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Feb 14
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Approximately two years ago, Bob and I were opposing counsel in a contested divorce. The individual complexities of the couple's unique case presented many opportunities for the case to have been drawn out, expensive for the clients, and unpleasant. However, throughout it all, Bob was able to present his client's positions clearly, without the encumbrance of negative emotions or ill will, and with forward moving ideas for resolution. In the end, the parties settled their differences without the expense of a trial, and both felt the settlement was fair. I would not hesitate to endorse Bob's skills as a divorce lawyer."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Jan 22
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Jun 11
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Over the years I have had a number of cases opposite Bob Kaufman. He is an opposing counsel with whom I can always work cooperatively and we have developed good solutions for our clients. Bob is one of the most trustworthy attorneys I know. He is intelligent, forthright and always advocates well for his clients. In some circumstances I have also referred clients to Bob for help with appellate matters. I heartily endorse Bob Kaufman for anyone needing help with a family law matter."
Family Attorney | Apr 24
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Bob Kaufman represents the very best of the legal profession. He is professional, ethical, and trustworthy. He is patient and genuine in every aspect of his practice. He will be there for his clients even when their case may be long settled. He is the type of lawyer that others wish they had representing them to begin with. Anyone who retains Bob will realize the good fortune they have after the initial meeting with him. I consider Bob to be one of the finest lawyers in town."
View more endorsements
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Avvo Contributions

This attorney hasn't created any legal answers in Q&A or legal guides recently on Avvo.

Bellevue Divorce and separation Lawyer Robert Charles Kaufman
Robert Charles Kaufman
Divorce and separation Attorney
Bellevue, WA
Licensed for 44 years
Free Consultation
This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2019. See details