If you want someone to help you with a child custody case, divorce, separation, family issues Kim is the one you want on your side. She knows these topics like the back of her hand. She responds quickly. She explains anything you need help understanding without making you feel bad about it. She knows the law in and out and has so much experience. She doesn't have to reference or research because she already has it memorized. This is very helpful in these kinds of cases because you can feel very confident that she will get the job done and it will be in your favor. She is also very honest if there is something you are requesting that the judge will not honor. I would and will recommend her to all of my family and friends. She is highly capable and her staff is awesome too. I am so thankful to the whole team and the help they provided me. She met my expectations and beyond!
Best decision I made, outside of getting the divorce - hiring Kim
Kim was my second lawyer in the process, when I realized mediation would be necessary. she reinvigorated a lagging process, was incredibly professional, effective and efficient. She knows how to shepherd one effectively through a tough process, with little waste and the goal of moving you quickly through a painful process. She tells it like it is and helps you understand and adjust to the system. I had a unique case, not straight forward. She did well as setting my expectation on what to expect from the system and where our case had additional merit or not. Her team was incredibly professional. She balances no-nonsense and sympathy well. My case couldn't have gone better, I walked out of mediation with the number we had hoped for, she did an incredible job. I can't imagine navigating such a tough system without her.
EXPERIENCE, COMPASSION, AND RESULTS FOR THOSE FACING DIVORCE AND OTHER FAMILY LAW MATTERS. CALL 206-866-2030 TO SCHEDULE A CONSULTATIONEXPERIENCE, COMPASSION, AND RESULTS FOR THOSE FACING CHILD CUSTODY AND OTHER FAMILY LAW MATTERS. CALL 206-866-2030 TO SCHEDULE A CONSULTATIONEXPERIENCE, COMPASSION, AND RESULTS FOR THOSE FACING CHILD SUPPORT AND OTHER FAMILY LAW MATTERS. CALL 206-866-2030 TO SCHEDULE A CONSULTATIONEXPERIENCE, COMPASSION, AND RESULTS FOR THOSE FACING DIVORCE AND OTHER FAMILY LAW MATTERS. CALL 206-866-2030 TO SCHEDULE A CONSULTATIONEXPERIENCE, COMPASSION, AND RESULTS FOR THOSE FACING FAMILY LAW MATTERS IN KING COUNTY CALL 206-866-2030 TO SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION
Clients facing family law litigation are living through one of the most  stressful periods of their lives. As an attorney and advocate, it is my role to reduce significant legal stress in their lives by actively listening to their desired goals and then implementing those goals into a strong, well prepared and effective case strategy.
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 anonymous | May 5, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The One You Want On Your Side
If you want someone to help you with a child custody case, divorce, separation, family issues Kim is the one you want on your side. She knows these topics like the back of her hand. She responds quickly. She explains anything you need help understanding without making you feel bad about it. She knows the law in and out and has so much experience. She doesn't have to reference or research because she already has it memorized. This is very helpful in these kinds of cases because you can feel very confident that she will get the job done and it will be in your favor. She is also very honest if there is something you are requesting that the judge will not honor. I would and will recommend her to all of my family and friends. She is highly capable and her staff is awesome too. I am so thankful to the whole team and the help they provided me. She met my expectations and beyond!
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Posted by Claire | December 18, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best decision I made, outside of getting the divorce - hiring Kim
Kim was my second lawyer in the process, when I realized mediation would be necessary. she reinvigorated a lagging process, was incredibly professional, effective and efficient. She knows how to shepherd one effectively through a tough process, with little waste and the goal of moving you quickly through a painful process. She tells it like it is and helps you understand and adjust to the system. I had a unique case, not straight forward. She did well as setting my expectation on what to expect from the system and where our case had additional merit or not. Her team was incredibly professional. She balances no-nonsense and sympathy well. My case couldn't have gone better, I walked out of mediation with the number we had hoped for, she did an incredible job. I can't imagine navigating such a tough system without her.
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Posted by Sara D. | June 22, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Kim is the ideal lawyer for a busy schedule
Kim was able to get the outcome I was seeking to my post-seconday school addendum to my child support docs. She responded promptly to everything I asked and sent, and to all stakeholders. She explained things when needed, and kept things simple when that sufficed. Thank you Kim for helping the right thing happen for me and my family!
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Posted by Keith | August 24, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Hiring Kim was one of the best decisions of my life for my family.
For me, what started as a "routine" parenting plan quickly spiraled out of control into a full blown custody dispute including protection orders for the safety of my Son. Kim was there every step of the way to help navigate what is our legal system. Multiple times over a year and a half I would send up a flare, and Kim would respond during her out of office hours, after hours, or holiday hours in the best interest of my Son, and my sanity. While not cheap (I don't think you can find this type of representation cheaply), Kim's services are worth every penny. What really surprised me was how Kim also watches out for your personal legal costs. For instance, if you have a court date coming up, she'll recommend saving your questions for the court date (assuming they can wait) since she'll be in court anyways.
I think the biggest asset (at least in my case) was her ability to read people, and make recommendations based on her
experience as a prosecutor. There were times where an action required seemed counter intuitive, but she would stick by her assessment, and things would always work out.
The few times we were in front of a judge, Kim was the most organized person in the courtroom. She would argue passionately for my case, even in an instance when a Judge didn't agree. By the end of her presentation, the Judge agreed with her assessment.
Kim is very empathetic. I didn't realize how stressful or emotionally involved this process would be. She seemed to know when I was at my wits end, and always had a kind word, or an encouraging conversation. I'm very much a "stick to the facts and all will be well" sort of person, so I didn't gauge how important this would be initially for this process. It's important...
In a nutshell, hiring Kim was the best decisions I could have made for my family in one of the most difficult times of my life. I cannot recommend Kim enough.
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Posted by anonymous | August 4, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Extremely Knowledgeable and Dedicated
I worked with Kim and her team on two separate but related cases involving divorce and child custody, the first containing rather unusual and complex international components. To her immense credit, Kim embraced this as a challenge and an opportunity to expand her legal expertise. I could hardly ask for a more hard-working, sensitive, and professional attorney with a strict attention to detail and organized, rational approach. Her knowledge of family law and the King county legal system seems to me unparalleled. Having Kim and her team on my side frankly provided the peace of mind that I could achieve the best possible outcome in the midst of what was a very stressful situation. I would recommend her services to anyone in need of similar legal assistance.
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Posted by Sarah | April 28, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Divorce and again with mediation
Kim listened to my facts, and also my experience. I felt supported and guided through both processes, which was so important when moving through the big emotions and trying to do what's right for the kids. These things felt big and scary and confusing, and Kim helped me feel confident that I was making choices with good information and consistent communication.
I also valued her experience and awareness of all the other players in the process.
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Posted by Behnaz | July 3, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
High Integrity, Communicative, Strong Advocate
Kim supported me through a post-divorce mediation that was critical to changing the parenting plan and child support. As an attorney myself, I have high standards and Kim exceeded all my expectations. Kim was very communicative, patient with my questions, and always aware of the importance of financial transparency. I felt prepared for the mediation, had my expectations in check, and was fully supported by Kim throughout the day. We achieved our desired outcome and I could not be more pleased with the caliber of service I received from Kim and her entire team at McKinley Irvin.
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Posted by lavinder | May 17, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best in challenging situations
I requested Kim's services in very challenging times. She took on the case and helped me with the case in a very sensible and strategic way. Throughout the case, she kept me well-informed, promptly addressed my questions / concerns and above all kept the focus on achieving results which are in the best interest of the child.
Without her help it was very difficult to achieve an outcome which is beneficial for the child. I also highly appreciate she did not make any false promises and clearly kept me informed about legal system and its constraints. I highly recommend her.
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Posted by Robin | May 9, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Most grateful for an attorney with expertise and class.
Ms. Schnuelle came highly recommended by a personal friend and business attorney that had worked with her in the past. Kim's professional expertise, her rectitude, and commitment to excellence brought a difficult family law case to a place of resolution. Not only did she loyally represent me, but she understood the nuances of the battle I was up against.
Through each communication, Kim was clear, confident and patient. I give Ms. Schnuelle 5 stars as have others, and after working together with her, I can see why her reputation precedes her. Thank you, Kim!
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Posted by Catherine | October 31, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Divorce case
My ex and I were in general agreement but none of us had experience with the US law as we are foreigners. I hired Kim Schnuelle and was super happy with her services. She provided great insights and recommendations. She has a very good understanding of the King County Court system and know how the judges are thinking. She is always straight forward and it really helped me understand how things are working in the US and how to clearly dissociate the law and the emotional part. Her team drafted all the documents and amended them at our demand. My ex and I were not very good at responding super quickly and they still managed to keep the fees in control. Joshua Dawson on her team was so patient with me, explaining several time the same things. I would highly recommend them.
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Posted by Todd | October 11, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Kim Schnuelle is amazing
Most family law issues that require a hired attorney are not typically ideal experiences. So, it's important to find someone who can not only set you at ease, but give you the confidence and attention you need. Kim Schnuelle was not assuring and attentive, but very professional, reasonable on all levels and made me feel like I was always in her best interest.
I hired Kim on two occasions. One was an initial parenting plan and child support modification and the second was for a child support adjustment. I live in another state so communication was key. Kim was always very easy to get ahold of and over promised anything. She was always very honest with me about not only the logistics with the process, but both times gave me detailed information about potential outcomes with the case. In the end both of my cases were able to be solved outside of court.
I would highly recommend Kim Schnuelle for any family law issues. I never felt rushed or overlooked Each time we spoke via e-mail or over the phone she was clearly always up to date and well informed with all the details of my case. I will hire her again in an instant if I again require representation.
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Posted by James | July 31, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Top shelf service
Kim was an excellent and thorough lawyer. She is calm and rational, never going for hyperbole or excessive displays related to the case. She answers emails very swiftly and is meticulous about keeping you and everyone else aware of her availability. She obviously knows her stuff. She filed and reviewed all my settlement papers and reviewed them very carefully. My only concern is with the firm, not with Kim. McKinley Irvin is a top-shelf firm that charges top-notch prices. I paid many thousands of dollars for what amounted to three or four quick attorney letters and a review of a settlement that I negotiated myself. If I had a high-profile or deeply contentious divorce, she would be perfect, but for ordinary people I'd say she is more lawyer than you really need.
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Posted by Stephen | July 7, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A great laywer during tough times
Kim (and her top-notch paralegal) exceeded my expectations during my recent divorce. She is an expert on the law and took the time to discuss my case and answered all of my questions/concerns. More important, I greatly appreciated her compassion and patience during this difficult time. Kim was extremely responsive to all of my questions and concerns. She worked with my wife's attorney to come to a settlement that I was happy with. I never once felt pressured to do anything I was not comfortable with. I never felt that I was being over-charged in any way. I highly recommend her for all family law needs. I could not have imagined a better experience with an attorney during this difficult personal time.
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Posted by anonymous | June 4, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Divorce lawyer
Kim handled a very complicated divorce. She was caring, professional and made sure I was protected. The divorce decree was enforced after I was divorced by the courts due to the excellent work she had done.
Posted by anonymous | March 27, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Pleased client!
Kim was a wonderful blend of professionalism and kindness. She always responded in a timely manner, helping me to understand the issues and guiding me to make decisions that were best for my situation. She is knowledgeable and helpful, and she will fight for you!
Posted by Laura | February 13, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly responsive, experienced
In my child support modification case, Kim was able to use her experience working in the courts to help negotiate an agreement without having to resort to court. She was always very responsive in answering my questions, communicated well, and was pro-active in getting the other side to respond to our proposals, which helped move things along. Kim was a pleasure to work with and with her guidance I was able to come to a good resolution.
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Posted by anonymous | December 23, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Divorce process
I hired Kim to represent me in my divorce. My situation was very difficult since my ex-husband was determined to leave me with nothing. Kim's performance was outstanding, she was a great support since the very beginning of the process and her advice was also very sharp. At the point we came to the mediation meeting, her experience was shown, when I thought we were going to continue dragging the divorce process due to my ex's position, we closed a very good settlement in the same day. I would definitely recommend her.
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Posted by Heather Hamilton Hall | September 16, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Worth every penny
When my fiance' and I found Kim Schnuelle/McKinley Irvin, we were faced with a huge legal battle regarding a legal separation that was signed several years prior. Unfortunately, the previous lawyer (he) had wrote such a poorly written legal agreement that we would have been prevented from marrying for 2 more years. As well as facing huge financial impacts lasting a lifetime.
It was a very difficult very combative situation with the other party involved. We had minimal hope that a divorce would occur and my fiance/I would be able to marry.
Kim gave us more than we could have ever hoped for in court. It was such a relief to have her as lawyer. It felt like someone has our back in court.
Her documentation and responses far exceeded our exceptions. Which for me, this expectation is pretty high having grown up in a family of doctorates of law. Her integrity is valued.
She is well worth every penny you spend on her expertise. I wish my fiance had found her in the beginning of his divorce. But I am so grateful we found her when we did.
Because of her hard work, my fiance and I, after 2 years of waiting, are now able to marry. Not a small accomplishment considering what his previous attorney had written up and filed in court.
If my daughters ever got into a place where they needed a family lawyer, I would do everything in my power to get them Kim. I have the utmost confidence in her abilities.
We are not well off and your average working family with bills to pay. Paying for a lawyer in a divorce situation is never easy but you will never regret hiring her.
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Posted by Cindy | January 11, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great, experience lawyer
I worked with Kim on my divorce. It was pretty straight forward, but there were a couple issues with my ex and she was able to recommend the best way to handle the situation. Her and her paralegal were very responsive and very easy to work with.
Posted by Mandy | September 16, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Ms. Schnuelle gets it done!
From the very first day of meeting with her, Kim was professional and punctual. I felt very secure having her represent me. I knew nothing would be missed and and I could focus on the other aspects of my divorce. She certainly made my outcome and final settlement fair and understandable.
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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.
King County Prosecuting Attorney, Family Support Division
1992 - 2009
Education
University of Washington School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1992
University of California - Los Angeles
MA - Masters
1986
University of California - Berkeley
B.A.
1984
Legal Cases
Divorce with children
Client received significantly increased residential time with his child and very favorable property settlement and maintenance agreement by the trial court.
Relocation arbitration
Client received very favorable parenting plan that allowed for successive relocations under its terms.
High income divorce with special-needs child
Client received very favorable property settlement arrangement, parenting plan and maintenance award after sixteen hour mediation.
Family Attorney | Aug 04
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Kim is an extremely bright and hard working attorney. She diligently seeks to meet her clients' goals, and she does so with a compassionate heart. I strongly endorse Kim as a lawyer."
Family Attorney | Jul 01
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. I have had the pleasure of working with Kim as Opposing Counsel on several family law matters. She is diligent, honest, and straightforward. I look forward to working with her again."
Unknown Attorney | Mar 05
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Kim is a brilliant and hardworking attorney. We were opposing counsel on many matters and was a zealous advocate for her clients. Kim is extremely knowledgeable about all areas of family law. I enthusiastically endorse this attorney."
Family Attorney | Feb 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Kim is an enthusiastic, practical and brilliant lawyer. She's very well respected by the bench and her peers. Lucky you, you have found an excellent attorney."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Feb 02
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Kim is a zealous advocate for her clients and very knowledgeable about the law. Wherever possible she tries to negotiate issues to minimize cost and diminish ongoing conflict between the parties. I endorse this lawyer wholeheartedly."
Family Attorney | Jan 26
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Kim is an extremely well rounded attorney. She is both a tireless advocate and a skillful problem solver. Kim brings to every case intelligence, wit and dedication. Kim is an inspiring colleague who has taught me much since we first met in 2006. I highly recommend Kim to anyone who needs legal counsel."
Family Attorney | Jan 21
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I have been on the other side of cases with Kim on several occasions. She embodies what a smart client wants in an attorney. She is smart, reasonable, but tenacious. She has the social skills to calm the waters instead of adding problems. If I needed a family law attorney Kim would be on my short list."
Family Attorney | Apr 15
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I strongly endorse Kim Schnuelle as a family lawyer. She is intelligent, honest and extremely knowledgeable in her area. Also she is extremely ethical and hardworking."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Feb 02
Relationship: Co-worker
"Kim is a strong advocate both in the courtroom and in negotiations. Her work ethic and focus on achieving client goals consistently generate great results for her clients. I endorse this lawyer."