Robert Charles Kaufman

Robert Charles Kaufman

4.8
Rating: 8.4

Licensed for 47 years

Debt collection Lawyer at Bellevue, WA
Practice Areas: Debt Collection, Government

P.O. Box 50401, Bellevue, WA

About Robert

Biography

Practice Areas

2

Practice Areas

Government 20%

Counsel to Washington State Boundary Review Board for King County

37 years

20%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 30 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

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Licenses

Licensed in Washington for 43 years

State: Washington

Acquired: 1982

Active

Lawyer disciplined by state licensing authority in 2019

Licensed in New Jersey for 47 years

State: New Jersey

Acquired: 1978

License Administratively Revoked

Location

Robert C. Kaufman, PS

P.O. Box 50401, Bellevue, WA, 98015

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Robert Charles Kaufman's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.8 /5.0

38 Client Reviews

Posted by Ayse Winkler | November 1, 2020 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this 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 defend...ing me without giving me any difficulties in your attorney fee.

Posted by Mike | August 14, 2020 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this 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 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this 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.

Posted by anonymous | February 5, 2020 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Do not hire he sign agreements without your consent causing huge financial harm to me

Did a poor job representing me. Key evidence was not taken or submitted for judge to review. He subpoena my key witness and did not let my key witness testify in my case. My personal items that had key evidence (financial docs, parenting videos and pictures of me with my kids, Quit Claim Deed, other ...key items for evidence) was withheld from me leaving it stuck in his office while my ex had 24/7 to her files depriving me of my rights to my property. There were bias where the Judge in my case is married to a Judge my spouse use to work for even though I wanted a new judge cause I felt I was not going to get a fair trial. Boy I was right. He signed off on the orders without my consent and against my will enslaving me to a contract of involuntary servitude that I had no knowledge that it was completed. Only to get final divorce through email 4 days later without my spouse and I signing it. I asked about the Child Support Order if it was voluntary or mandatory, he tells me its mandatory. Under the SSA 42.U.S.C 603 Grants to the states, it says voluntary acknowledgement. It also says its a contract and not law. It's a misrepresentation of facts to me. Another thing to know about Child Support, it states, When the attorney general or prosecuting attorney appears in, defends, or initiates actions to establish, modify, or enforce child support obligations, he or she represents the state, the best interest if the child relating to parentage, and the best interests of the children of the state, but does not represent the interests of any other individual. That means you don't get a fair judgment. They also took my kids college funds causing me a huge financial harm to me and my kids, not representing in my best interest. Beware.

Robert Kaufman

Replied last February 7, 2020

This gentleman is a former client. Because he chose to remain anonymous, I will respond in detail without violating the attorney-client privilege. The reviewer was in a long-term marriage with dependent children. He was the primary breadwinner for his family, and as a result the law imposed responsibilities on him to support his children and spouse. He never accepted his responsibilities. Because he disregarded my advice as well as the recommendations of one of the finest family law mediators in the state, he refused to authorize any offer of settlement in mediation thereby forcing his case to trial. I believe his comment that child support is voluntary and not mandatory speaks volumes about his unwillingness to accept his responsibilities and refusal to acknowledge the laws pertaining to the support of children which was repeatedly explained to him both the mediator and me. None of the allegations are true. All evidence provided by the client as well as evidence I obtained in discovery was offered and admitted into evidence at trial. All witnesses with relevant testimony were called to testify. The client is unhappy because the judge ordered an equitable division of property and child support under the Washington State Child Support Schedule - something he unrealistically sought to avoid. I have practiced law for 42 years and handled hundreds of divorces. This was the first and only matter wherein a client would not authorize any offer of settlement in mediation thereby forcing the matter to trial. I am sorry the client is unhappy. No lawyer can guarantee an outcome. I suspect we might have obtained a more favorable outcome and avoided trial had he authorized an offer of settlement in mediation. He chose not to do so knowing the risk of trial. And, despite the fact that the case proceeded to trial, he obtained a good outcome. The unfortunate reality is that he refused to accept his responsibility to support his children, refused to acknowledge that his spouse had an interest in their community property and was upset that the judge did what she was obligated to do by dividing their property. Rather than accept responsibility for his own actions, he chooses to make up false claims regarding my services. If I make mistakes, I am the first to acknowledge them and do my best to correct them. No mistakes were made in this matter other than the client refusing to engage in good faith settlement discussions that would likely have avoided trial.

Posted by Kimi | April 4, 2019 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this 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 changin...g 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!

See All Client Reviews

Robert Charles Kaufman's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Robert
Charles Aaron Young headshot
Charles Young

Family lawyer | 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!"

Natalie Rosenbaum De Maar headshot
Natalie De Maar

Unknown lawyer | 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."

Neal Tully Feinerman headshot
Neal Feinerman

Family lawyer | 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."

Geoffrey M. Greenberg headshot
Geoffrey Greenberg

Divorce and separation lawyer | 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."

James Francis Pleasants headshot
James Pleasants

Divorce and separation lawyer | 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."

Yale Lewis III headshot
Yale Lewis

Divorce and separation lawyer | 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."

David Webster Kitchell headshot
David Kitchell

Unknown lawyer | 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."

Ronald L Cohen headshot
Ronald Cohen

Divorce and separation lawyer | 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."

Virginia Monica Paula Onu headshot
Virginia Onu

Family lawyer | 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."

Kathryn Verity Fields headshot
Kathryn Fields

Divorce and separation lawyer | 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."

Deborah Lynn Gordon headshot
Deborah Gordon

Divorce and separation lawyer | Jan 22

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

Sarah Wessel Birkeland headshot
Sarah Birkeland

Family lawyer | 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."

Lionel D. Galperin headshot
Lionel Galperin

Family lawyer | 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 All Endorsements
Charles Aaron Young headshot
Charles Young

Family lawyer

Peter William Mogren headshot
Peter Mogren

Family lawyer

Neal Tully Feinerman headshot
Neal Feinerman

Family lawyer

Geoffrey M. Greenberg headshot
Geoffrey Greenberg

Divorce and separation lawyer

James Francis Pleasants headshot
James Pleasants

Family lawyer

David Webster Kitchell headshot
David Kitchell

Family lawyer

Ronald L Cohen headshot
Ronald Cohen

Estate planning lawyer

Virginia Monica Paula Onu headshot
Virginia Onu

Divorce and separation lawyer

Kathryn Verity Fields headshot
Kathryn Fields

Divorce and separation lawyer

Deborah Lynn Gordon headshot
Deborah Gordon

Divorce and separation lawyer

Sarah Wessel Birkeland headshot
Sarah Birkeland

Family lawyer

Greg Cavagnaro headshot
Greg Cavagnaro

Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyer

Lionel D. Galperin headshot
Lionel Galperin

Family lawyer

Experience

Rating:  8.4 (Excellent)

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.”

Honors

2021

Distinguished, Martindale-Hubbell

2021

Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2019

Top Rated Lawyer, American Registry

N/A

"Random Acts of Professionalism" Award, Washington State Bar Association

Associations

1982 - Present

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

1978 - Present

American Bar Association

Member

Sample of 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

See More Legal Cases

Education

1978

Gonzaga University School of Law

Juris Doctor

1975

University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

A.B.

Speaking Engagements

2019

WSABRB Annual Conference and Training

Boundary Review Review Board Practice and Procedure

2018

WSABRB Annual Conference and Training

Caselaw Update and BRB 101

2014

WSABRB Annual Conference and Training

Boundary Review Boards

2012

WSABRB Annual Conference and Training

Conducting Public Hearings

Languages

English

Avvo Rating

Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not.

What determines Avvo Rating?
  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • Discipline
    This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2019
    Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution