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Jennifer J. Payseno

Divorce and separation Attorney at Seattle, WA

4.7   17 reviews
Virtual consultation available
Virtual consultation available
  • Licensed for 31 years
    State WA
    Acquired 1992
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Jennifer

Learn Jennifer’s areas of practice.

EXCEPTIONAL DIVORCE & FAMILY LAW REPRESENTATION IN KING COUNTY. I CAN HELP YOU GET RESULTS. CALL 206-745-3587 TO SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION.

Awards

Distinguished Peer Review Rating
Client's Choice 2020
Client's Choice
2020

Contact Jennifer

McKinley Irvin
1501 Fourth Avenue
Suite 1750
Seattle, WA, 98101
McKinley Irvin
10900 NE 4th Street
Suite 2220
Bellevue, WA, 98004
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Reviews

4.7 / 5.0
  17 customer reviews
Client's Choice 2020
Client's Choice
Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.
Posted by Teresa | March 4, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I highly recommend Jennifer Payseno and her team!!
Jennifer Payseno and her team at McKinley Irvin are extremely professional, very organized, know the law extremely well, did not get emotional/stayed professional, they're fair, they ask great questions, they listen (& remembered!, my answers), they stay calm, cool and collected, responded to all of my inquiries, helped me remain calm during a most difficult time in my life, and they were very kind to me.
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Posted by anonymous | March 31, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent team and voice of reason
Jennifer and her team of experts we very much on top of things and were great at keeping everything moving forward in a positive productive way. She made the best of a difficult situation. Thanks Jennifer
Posted by anonymous | September 30, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
An extraordinary good attorney with a perfect team
Jennifer know how to protect you and your kids. She is fair, very experienced and her team is awesome.
Posted by Ajkm | February 26, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Awesome ain’t Easy!
During a very painful time in my life, I found a bright star in attorney Jennifer Payseno and her team. Two years later, my eyes well up with tears just remembering their compassion while guiding me with expert knowledge and precise actions. My mom was dying of Pancreatic Cancer at the time. Their thorough guidance was invaluable. Most importantly, she and all on her team were exceptionally responsive to ALL my inquiries. I was well informed about realistic expectations and what she could negotiate on my behalf. She closed the financials of a multi million dollar, 26 year marriage in 6 months. My husband fired his lawyer and even trusted Jennifer to complete the Divorce. I expressed a small part of my gratitude with Glassy-baby: Awesome ain’t Easy!
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Posted by Mike | February 19, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Divorce & Custody Case
I hired Ms. Payseno for my divorce and child custody case. I believe her knowledge of the process and skill in navigating the law and procedures is what won my case. She stays the course and keeps things above board. She is clear with the strategy and, along with her staff, is available and understanding of the difficult time this is for most people. Ms. Payseno genuinely cares about her clients and I trust her implicitly.
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Posted by Nick | February 18, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommended
After 25 years of marriage I was blindsided when served with a petition for divorce. Jennifer was very professional, she took the time to understand my case, offered me sound advice and, along with her team, guided me through the entire process resulting in a fair settlement without going to court. This was an extremely hostile divorce. Jennifer was extremely patient, answered my questions promptly, worked hard, and stayed focused on what was important in getting my case settled.
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Posted by anonymous | July 28, 2015
Simply the best
I hired Jennifer when I realized my ex was an out of control narcissistic lying Pro Se who would stop at nothing to crush me financially and emotionally. I needed a tough and experienced attorney who could protect and defend my interests. Jennifer was just perfect. She caught on with every little detail of my case early on and never stopped to amaze me. She is the right mix of tough and compassionate and was simply magnificent in court, with so much ease and poise. I did not always listened to her or liked what she had to tell me, but I realized early on that she was very realistic with potential outcomes, knowledgeable, very bright and relentless in her pursuit of justice for her clients. She was always right on. I was an emotional wreck during my 15 months ordeal, but Jennifer always sorted through feelings and facts gently and had my best interest at heart. She was available via email during business hours, but also at night and in weekends. Her team Kristina, Jessica and John were just wonderful to work with. My case got complicated with a bankruptcy filed by my ex, Jennifer never skipped a beat and was able to use it to my advantage. We went through numerous motions and hearings and even though there is never a real winner or loser in a divorce, Jennifer won every battle for me. The finale will always be unforgettable to me: After Jennifer finished a magnificent presentation while digging deep into the complex laws of bankruptcy, the judge scolded my ex, attacked his credibility, threatened him of sanctions and awarded me the house he had been trying to steal from me for years. This was just priceless. I ended up settling my case a week before trial due to financial reasons, but there is no doubt in my mind, that had I gone to trial, Jennifer would have won that last battle for me and the ex would have got what he deserved. I was in great hands through this painful process and would definitely recommend Jennifer and her team to anyone finding themselves in a highly contested divorce. She is simply the best. The downside is that her firm is very expensive, I did cringe at the 6 figures I had to spend, but I really got what I paid for, the best representation. She gave me my life back.
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Posted by Eric | May 14, 2014
Extremely competent representation
I was in a difficult position with an attorney that was not representing me well and was actually undermining my position. I met with Jennifer. She agreed to take my case, which ended up being much more complicated and convoluted than it should have, through no fault of hers. She represented me very well, always trying to achieve the best outcome for me. In one hearing, the word "poised" came to mind while watching her address the commissioner. It was obvious she knew her facts, supported them with appropriate case law and was fair. She tried on several occasions to save both me and my ex-wife attorney's fees by educating opposing counsel but was unsuccessful. Jennifer and her team (Jessica and Kristina) work well together and definitely know their stuff. I would not hesitate to seek their counsel again if I had a difficult legal matter. The only thing to be aware of is this firm is not inexpensive. Although expensive, throughout the entire matter I always felt like I was well-represented, and I was being heard by my attorneys.
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Posted by anonymous | February 23, 2014
Excellent dissolution attorney
Twenty months ago, devastated by the sudden end of a long term marriage, I sought legal counsel. I met with and retained Jennifer Payseno. I was impressed by her ability to sort through my emotional issues while highlighting all of the important legal concerns that would be affecting my case. As my spouse was in the legal profession, she understood the need for me to have an advocate that could “level the playing field.” I found her advice to be straightforward, clear and calming. This was especially important at a time in my life where I found decision making difficult. She was responsive to each and every one of my concerns. Jennifer and her team mastered the complicated components of my family business that confounded easy solutions in settlement. As additional life changing events occurred during this process, Jennifer had continuing compassion for me and a strategy for all the new legal issues these changes presented. I have known her during the most difficult time of my life and found her work for me to be thorough, strategic, professional and compassionate. I would recommend her and her team of Jessica Moore and Kristina Zimmerman to anyone who finds their marital life compromised and who needs a strong, clear thinking advocate.
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Posted by Josie | November 1, 2013
Strength~ Grace ~ Integrity
Jennifer and her team went above and beyond for me. Jennifer exudes a combination of compassion and strength which gave me a sense of peace in an otherwise extremely stressful time in my life. i am thankful for Jennifer and her team for their diligent and honest work ethic.
Posted by Mark | May 20, 2013
Professional, Knowledgeable, and Realistic
I worked with Jennifer Payseno at McKinley Irvin on a child custody modification. Some words that describe here are: professional, knowledgeable, and most importantly, realistic. Her passion for her profession became obvious as she made the effort to know me and to understand my situation. I provided volumes of information that would be difficult for most to read past the first page. It became apparent through the process that Jennifer and her staff took the time to not only read it, but become very familiar with it so that they could better help me through my situation. I very highly recommend Jennifer and McKinley Irvin to anyone in need of a family law expert and highly competent advocate.
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Posted by Albert | August 8, 2012
satisfied client
Jennifer was extremely professional and handled my case with class. I did better than I expected going in to my divorce and can't thank Jennifer enough.
Posted by Dave | October 20, 2011
Divorce Attorney - Recommendation
Undergoing a divorce as a reluctant defendant...particularly after a long term marriage with complicated business, contractual, estate, and childcare-related issues...is a brutally emotional process that most of us have no experience in navigating. The terminology, the invasive nature of inquiries, and the prescriptive legal requirements are all foreign. Having someone representing you that can maintain a rational discourse with you as well as opposing counsel is essential. Jennifer Payseno and her team, specifically co-counsel Jessica Moore, did exactly that for me. They presented the hard realities of my case, the law, and early-on set my expectations. At the same time they developed solid defensive strategies built on facts, events, and chronology to counter the bombastic theatrics of opposing counsel. This was a protracted roller coaster ride and at times, Jennier and her team served as both legal counselor and therapist. Her style is both collaborative and strategically offensive; a nice mix. During nearly a full year of support and hand holding with enough twists and turns to make a long running soap opera, Jennifer was not only able to pull my emotions off the ceiling, but steadly educate opposing counsel on the rational weaknesses in their case. Despite our defendant status, Jennifer and her team took the lead in nearly every filing and proposal to ensure that plaintiff's counsel reacted to our templates, ideas, and requirements. This is not the cheapest way to go, but the only way when facing a wave of unrealistic and marignally logical thinking from opposing counsel. I didn't always like what Jennifer was telling me...and at times didn't even follow that advice...but her counsel was dead on accurate. She and Jessica always had my interests at heart and were extraordinary in their knowledge of the ever-changing details. There was never the need to revisit issues or bring them up to speed...they were nearly aways acting, not reacting. At times I bristled at the McKinley Irvin business model of prepaying for a six-figure legal defense ahead of the services provided, but the exceptional quality of that defense is unquestioned.
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Posted by anonymous | April 29, 2011
Jennifer Payseno
Jennifer represented me on 2 occasions as the relationship with my wife fluctuated. The second time resulted in a court ruling following my wife's attempts to get me removed from our property. The build up to this was extremely stressful but the guidance from Jennifer and her team was exceptional, leaving nothing to chance and providing me with reassurance that the best possible argument was being prepared. Jennifer was always contactable, always responsive and always provided sound advice. On the day Jennifer took the opposing council to the cleaners, her preparation totally overshadowed the opposition and the moment the Judge ruled in my favor I had to ask Jennifer if I'd heard him correctly, He required my wife to move out and gave me almost 50 -50 custody of my daughter. It was quite a moment. In hiring Jennifer I took the approach that legal costs were secondary to what I wanted out of this so was prepared to pay. My decision to select Jennifer was based on research, reputation and reading reviews. I couldn't have got it any better. I would recommend Jennifer in all cases
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Posted by anonymous | April 7, 2011
Unquestionably the right attorney for my case
I brought Jennifer an extremely complicated case involving multiple business partnerships and custody issues. Jennifer listened to my concerns and desires regarding my divorce, carefully and artfully executed a strategy that kept me on the high ground and was consistently several steps ahead of my wife's attorney. I was amazed at how quickly Jennifer got a handle on the very complicated business holdings and moved to protect my interests. Every step of the way, even when finances were tight, Jennifer was understanding, dedicated and reliable. I wouldn't hesitate to hire Jennifer or McKinly-Irvin again.
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Posted by anonymous | December 16, 2014
Fantastic attorney, highly recommended
Jennifer and her team did an excellent job on my case. It was a very complicated case that required much time. Jennifer had been recommended to me by a friend. After reviewing her and the firm, I determined that it would be too expensive to go with her. I went to another attorney first, that wasn't getting me anywhere so I went to another and another! After three attorneys and a serious mistake made by the third, I reached out to Jennifer. She was compassionate, knowledgeable and in the end we were more successful in saving my family and my hard earned assets than I could of hoped for. The costs were extraordinary but I believe if I had gone with Jennifer from the beginning it would have been more manageable. I highly recommend Jennifer and would have gladly given five stars except for the high cost of the litigation.
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Posted by anonymous | April 24, 2014
Terrible
I can't recommend Jennifer Payseno and I can't recommend this firm. She is unresponsive and outrageously expensive. I spent the vast majority of my time communicating with her paralegal, who I happen to like, but nevertheless is not worth the $2,500 I paid in less than one weeks time for setup fees. For her part, I basically just got generic information and pleasantries for $1,200. When I figured out my ex-wife was spending about 1/3 on her attorney who was a lot more proactive in filing the initial divorce (that I kept asking to be filed first) and more aggressive, I knew I had to get another attorney but not before the firm collection person started hounding me for more money even after little work has been done.
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Cost

Rates
  • Retainer Always
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • McKinley Irvin
  • 2002 - Present
  • Senior Associate
  • McKinley Irvin
  • 1999 - 2002

Education

  • Seattle University School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • N/A

Associations

  • King County Bar Association
  • President
  • 2019 - Present
  • King County Judicial Screening Committee
  • Member
  • 2004 - Present
  • King County Bar Association
  • First Vice President
  • 2018 - 2019
  • King County Bar Association
  • Second Vice President
  • 2017 - 2018
  • King County Bar Association
  • Treasurer
  • 2013 - 2014
  • King County Bar Association
  • Trustee
  • 2000 - 2003
  • South King County Bar Association
  • President
  • 1998 - 1999
  • King County Legal Clinic
  • Volunteer
  • 1998 - 2006
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Best Lawyer
  • Best Lawyers
  • 2024
  • Super Lawyer
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2023
  • Best Lawyer
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2023
  • Super Lawyer
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2022
  • Best Lawyer
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2022
  • Super Lawyers
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2021
  • Best Lawyer
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2021
  • Super Lawyer
  • Washington Super Lawyers
  • 2020
  • Best Lawyer
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2020
  • Super Lawyer
  • Washington Super Lawyers
  • 2019
  • Super Lawyer
  • Washington Super Lawyers
  • 2018
  • Super Lawyer
  • Washington Super Lawyers
  • 2017
  • Super Lawyer
  • Washington Super Lawyers
  • 2016
  • Super Lawyer
  • Washington Super Lawyers
  • 2015
  • Super Lawyer
  • Washington Super Lawyers
  • 2014
  • Super Lawyer
  • Washington Super Lawyers
  • 2013
  • Super Lawyer
  • Washington Super Lawyers
  • 2012
  • Super Lawyer
  • Washington Super Lawyers
  • 2011
  • Super Lawyer
  • Washington Super Lawyers
  • 2010
  • Random Acts of Professionalism Award
  • Washington State Bar Association
  • 2005
  • Peer Review Rated BV Distinguished (4.4 out of 5)
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • N/A
View all awards

Publications

  • 425 Business Magazine
  • Is Divorce in Your Retirement Plan?
  • 2015
View all publications

Speaking Engagements

  • Community Property CLE - Washington State Bar Association
  • Marital Agreements — Pre and Post Enforcement and Requirements
  • 2011
  • Relationship Agreements Seminar
  • Ethical Considerations
  • 2007
  • King County Bar Association CLE
  • Advanced Family Law Ethics
  • 2007

Attorney endorsements

Received (17)
Given (17)
Endorse Jennifer
Divorce and separation Attorney | Mar 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jennifer is a tenacious, thorough and savvy lawyer who achieves outstanding results for her clients during their most turbulent times. She is compassionate, and very attuned to the specific needs and circumstances of each client. I have referred many clients to her, and every single one has thanked me later."
Divorce and separation Attorney | May 03
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Jennifer is a skilled advocate, whether in a courtroom setting or during the course of negotiations. She readily identifies issues and provides her clients with sound advice. Jennifer is a credit to the legal profession."
Family Attorney | Aug 04
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Jennifer is an extremely experienced and knowledgeable lawyer. She is also an incredible advocate to her clients. I highly endorse Jennifer as an attorney."
Family Attorney | Apr 24
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Jan 24
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Jan 24
Relationship: Co-worker
"Jennifer is respected for her presence in court and her preparedness as a litigator. I endorse Jennifer as a family law lawyer."
Family Attorney | Sep 06
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"One of the best in the business."
Family Attorney | Apr 03
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Feb 13
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Feb 05
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Feb 02
Relationship: Co-worker
"Jennifer is an experienced litigator and very well respected in the greater Seattle legal community. Her work ethic and legal acumen are second to none. I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Feb 01
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Feb 01
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Feb 01
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer. I have had the pleasure of working with Jennifer for many years now. She is a tireless advocat for her clients and unbeatable in court."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Feb 01
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Feb 01
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Jan 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
View more endorsements
Divorce and separation
Divorce and separation
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Divorce and separation
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Child custody
Divorce and separation
Divorce and separation
Divorce and separation
Child support
Divorce and separation
Child support
Child support

Avvo Contributions

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Seattle Divorce and separation Lawyer Jennifer J. Payseno
Jennifer J. Payseno
Divorce and separation Attorney
Seattle, WA
Licensed for 31 years
Virtual consultation available