Michael Spencer Chin

PRO

Michael Spencer Chin

4.8
Rating: 9.6

Licensed for 16 years

Divorce and separation Lawyer at Lynnwood, WA
Practice Areas: Divorce & Separation, Family, Probate ... +3 more

3500 188th Street SW, Suite 205, Lynnwood, WA

Virtual Consultation Available

About Michael

Biography

Trusted legal advisors and general counsel for the everyday individual.

Practice Areas

6

Practice Areas

Divorce and Separation 35%

35%
Family 20%

20%
Probate 20%

20%
Estate Planning 15%

15%
Business 5%

5%
Child Custody 5%

5%

Fees and Rates

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2025 2024 2022
...
+ 5

Licenses

Licensed in Washington for 16 years

State: Washington

Acquired: 2009

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Chin Legal Group, PLLC

3500 188th Street SW, Suite 205, Lynnwood, WA, 98037

chinlegal.com

Michael Spencer Chin's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.8 /5.0

99 Client Reviews

Showing 1 - 5 of 5 reviews | Punctuality

Posted by Regina | March 22, 2021 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

I highly recommend lawyer Michael Chin and his staff!

Michael Chin and his staff were professional, prompt and always treated me kindly and with respect which meant a lot especially during a difficult divorce. It can be challenging to find a lawyer that is affordable, accessible and that you can truly trust will represent you in the best possible way a...nd I found all of this to be true with Michael Chin. With gratitude that I found this lawyer, Regina

Posted by anonymous | July 03, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Child Custody

Great Attorney, Great Guy! - Retained on such short notice and still got the desired results for the best interest of my child!

For over a year I was going through a rough custody battle that included child support being addressed as well. I was having such a horrible time before retaining Michael Chin. It seemed as though the courts were against me. It believed everything the other party said, without evidence to his claims ...etc. Court date after court date, accusations, and the calling out from work became all too much (you all know how it goes *sign*). I just about gave up and almost settled for a 50/50 schedule (even though that would not in the best interest of the child) and then my mother came across Michael Chin on the internet. She suggested I get in touch with him. We reached out to the email provided and were immediately in contact with him over the phone. He told me right away that he could not guarantee anything, but that he would be more than happy to sit down to see what my options were at this point. I was only about 2 months away from trial at the time that I first went to see him during a consultation. There wasn't much time for him to work with; he had to wrap his head around what has happened in over a years worth of court proceedings and understand why I was where I was when I was seeking his assistance. He listened, asked questions, made notes, and then asked what it was that I was looking for, what was the outcome that I would like to see? It seemed like everything I wanted was not going to be achievable. But still, he listened, offered his advice, and we sat down and discussed the rate. This made budgeting and payment arrangements very doable and I didn't feel like there was anything being kept from me at any point during his representation; no surprises, no exceptions, just everything laid right in front of your face. All paperwork, communication, court document received, Micheal kept me informed through the entire process (which is awesome, considering that I have labeled myself a bit of a control freak - but aren't we all?). Another bonus, that is entirely different than any other attorney that I've consulted with, is that communication via email, phone calls and text message are not billed because he doesn't want you to feel pressured about money to talk to the person that is representing you in a case that is so important to your future and your life. I think that is a very respectable and caring thing that Michael does for his clients. I also liked the fact that if Michael was in court with another client I could easily get in touch with Elyse, his paralegal (shout out to Elyse, she's awesome! Very professional, punctual and nice). Everything was always very organized and done in a timely manner. At trial I was extremely nervous, but Michael did all the talking and assured me that he would present everything needed to be known for determining what would be the best interest of my child. He knows the rules of a court room extremely well and I felt like I was in great hands during the trial process. He took a very respectful approach but also would stand up and be assertive when needed. This was very effective because not only did I get all that I envisioned for my child... but more! I was so discouraged before I sought Michael's representation but now my life is looking more positive and less stressful. My child is also happier with a set schedule and more stability to rely on with a fair parenting plan. I will definitely keep in contact with Michael and would retain him again, without a doubt, if I ever needed to again. I would recommend him to any one that's at any stage in the process of a custody battle, either the beginning, the middle, or towards the end at trial or even for modifications. I would recommend retaining this service to alleviate your stress levels and help you manage this tough area of law and at the same time educating you on the process as well. Great attorney, great guy! Thank you again Michael for all of your advice and guidance though my case.

Posted by Tommy | January 02, 2014 | Speeding & Traffic Ticket

Another ticket bites the dust.

Michael Chin does it again! Michael handled another unfortunate ticket I incurred in a speed trap with great care and professionalism. Michael is very easy to get a hold of and responds in a timely manner.

Posted by Valerie | June 05, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Maybe a decent tax lawyer terrible criminal defense lawyer!!!

I will say that if I were the person to hire the person to represent me I would not have hired Mr. Chin as he is not an experienced criminal lawyer. A very good friend hired Mr. Chin for me . I was very worried about my defense from the beginning. Mr. Chin does not respond to calls like a caring att...orney should . He missed a court date we had and I stood in court with no attorney. After paying a decent price for him. The judge called Mr. Chin from the stand himself . Mr. Chin answered and stated he was in California for his wedding!!! The judge asked if he eloped because he surly knew he was getting married but did not make sure anyone was present for my day in court? He stumbled with words because what can you say other than he just didn't feel my case was important! The judge was not impressed. So really that explains Mr. Chin as an attorney. Never did get any type of apology. My sentence reflected his abilities as a criminal attorney in the end unfortunately. I will say the attorneys at his firm including his father were competent and great to work with. Hopefully Mr. Chin can learn from them with time?

Michael Chin

Replied last April 11, 2022

Dear Valerie, I am truly sorry that you had a poor experience with my firm, specifically Me, nearly six (6) years ago (as I was married in June, 2016) and are only now writing your review. My records indicate that counsel was present for your pretrial conference and a continuance was granted due to my wedding. It had no affect on the outcome of your case. That being said I appreciate the feedback. Also, since you speak so highly of the other attorneys in my firm, you should know that my former criminal law associate, now partner, Lucas McWethy, has taken over all criminal cases at our firm. To close, I am sure that either myself or any other attorney who represented you was prepared and ready for your hearings and the case was thoroughly reviewed as evidenced by the many satisfied and pleased clients. If you felt neglected that was never my intention and we will strive to do better.

Posted by Susana | June 05, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

reckless and no accountability

I hired Michael Chin and his team for almost 2 years to represent me in my divorce, domestic violence and custody. Michael did not advocate for me and he sabotaged my case. In fact he colluded with opposing counsel and dragged my case and minor children thru false allegations motions. He took my cas...e recklessly to trial, showed up late, represented other clients during my time and failed to communicate important matters in my case. Also failed to bring contempt motions and violations by the other party Im in extreme hardship by his actions and when I complained to him he simply withdrew from my case. He will not hold accountability. As a result of his reckless actions my children were kidnapped yesterday.

Michael Chin

Replied last April 26, 2024

Dear Client, While I always appreciate comments left by former clients, your description and characterization of our representation is simply false and without merit. Knowing your case intimately, we prepared very hard for your case and in fact won your case. We were always on time and ready for testimony and argument. As you may or may not recall your spouse was requesting custody and did not want to pay you child support. Because of our efforts you received custody of your children and received full child support. This was your number 1 goal throughout the course of litigation and it was met. Second, your spouse wished to characterize the primary asset, your family home as his sole and separate property. As a result of our representation at trial you received 55% of the equity in the house. If not for our representation you may have received nothing. Sincerely - Chin Legal Group, PLLC Pertaining to your restraining order, I was not the attorney of record for any portion of those proceedings. You had another attorney who ultimately was unable to secure that order. Pertaining to our withdrawal, and even though you owed us significant attorney fees, we still finalized your matter and did not withdraw until trial was completed and final orders were entered. While you wish to find a “scape-goat”, my firm will not play that role as we zealously and professionally represented you throughout the entirety of your case. However, if you want to unreasonably blame me, feel free to do so. In closing, I wish you the best for you and your children.

See All Client Reviews

Michael Spencer Chin's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Michael
Jennifer Miller headshot
Jennifer Miller

Family lawyer | Aug 28

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Counsel and I had contested litigation that was complex including business valuation as part of a dissolution. He did a nice job, came to court prepared, was informed on the issues such that we could have intelligent conversations with the judge on contested issues. He was professional in court and out of court."

Tien Huu Nguyen headshot
Tien Nguyen

Family lawyer | Dec 20

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Mike is one of the most seasoned family and tax law attorneys in the area. I refer all my family law cases to him because he never lets my clients down."

Brent Patrick Bohan headshot
Brent Bohan

Divorce and separation lawyer | Aug 09

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Michael is an outstanding attorney. He has a good knowledge of the law and is highly capable. He is reasonable and capable of resolving cases efficiently. I would recommend Michael to anyone searching for a divorce attorney."

Lucas Daniel McWethy headshot
Lucas McWethy

Family lawyer | Aug 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Chin is a zealous advocate for his clients. He uses his extensive knowledge of the court system and legal rules to get the best results possible. I endorse Mr. Chin without reservation."

Charles P. Shane headshot
Charles Shane

Family lawyer | Mar 30

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Michael was opposing counsel on a divorce matter. Michael is a pleasure to work with. I saw him go the extra mile for his client. He was always professional and courteous."

Adam R. Teal headshot
Adam Teal

Unknown lawyer | Nov 08

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Kevin Daniel Anderson headshot
Kevin Anderson

Unknown lawyer | Feb 18

Relationship: Friend

"I am happy to endorse Mike Chin as an attorney and counselor at law. Mike and I have been colleagues since law school. I have had the pleasure of working with him extensively, whether it was collaborating together on joint law school projects or calling each other up to bounce legal strategy off of one another regarding are respective practice areas. I have always been impressed with his insight and thoroughness in finding and taking the best path to achieve his clients' goals. When I am approached by a client who has a legal issue in Mike's practice area, I always send them to him and know that they are getting the best representation."

Jonathan M Chin headshot
Jonathan Chin

Unknown lawyer | Jun 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Michael is a consummate professional who advocates tirelessly for his clients."

Jess Rawlings Monnette headshot
Jess Monnette

Unknown lawyer | Jun 08

Relationship: Other

"When one of my clients is in need of local counsel in the Seattle area, Mike is on the list of attorneys I will call."

Amy Elizabeth Pagano headshot
Amy Pagano

Estate planning lawyer | Jun 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Family Law, Estate Planning, Tax or Litigation needs, I endorse Michael Chin's work. He is a smart and hard working attorney who will effectively advocate on your behalf."

View All Endorsements
Shaza Eed Salameh headshot
Shaza Salameh

Guardianship lawyer

Tien Huu Nguyen headshot
Tien Nguyen

Personal injury lawyer

Lucas Daniel McWethy headshot
Lucas McWethy

Criminal defense lawyer

Amy Elizabeth Pagano headshot
Amy Pagano

Wills and living wills lawyer

Thomas Cornell Woodcock headshot
Thomas Woodcock

Securities offerings lawyer

Kevin Daniel Anderson headshot
Kevin Anderson

Personal injury lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.6 (Superb)

Honors

2019

Client Satisfaction Top 10 Best Attorneys (Family Law), American Institute of Family Law Attorneys

2017

2017 ten best attorney family law, American Institute of Family Law Attorneys

2016

2016 Client Satisfaction Award, American Institute of Family Law Attorneys

2006

WIlliam Lebfreve Best Thesis (History), Saint Mary's College

Work Experience

2015 - Present

Professor, O'Dea High School

2011 - Present

Attorney, Chin Legal Group, PLLC

2010 - 2011

Associate Attorney, Stahancyk Kent Johnson & Hook P C

Associations

2015 - Present

Snohomish County Bar Association

Member

2014 - Present

O'Dea High School

Teacher American Legal Systems and Mock Trial

Education

2010

University of Washington School of Law

LL.M - Master of Laws

2009

Gonzaga University School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

2006

Saint Mary's College of California

Bachelor of Arts

Languages

English

Cantonese

Activity

Avvo Rating

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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