Robert Charles Kaufman

Robert Charles Kaufman

4.8
Rating: 8.5

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

38 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

Showing 1 - 5 of 14 reviews | General Knowledge

Posted by anonymous | February 07, 2020 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

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 07, 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 Craig | July 03, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

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.

Posted by Kameron | July 05, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

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.

Posted by Tony | January 08, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

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.

Posted by anonymous | November 07, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Litigation

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 dis...orderly 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.

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:  8.5 (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