Sarah is an experienced Seattle family law attorney focused on child custody, parenting plans, child support, and domestic violence protection orders. With more than a decade of practice, she is known for her straightforward advice, strategic advocacy, and unwavering commitment to protecting children and vulnerable clients.
Sarah brings a unique perspective to her cases as a Pro Tempore Commissioner in King County, where she presides over family law and protection order calendars. This judicial experience gives her valuable insight into how courts evaluate cases and strengthens her ability to advocate effectively in and out of the courtroom.
Clients appreciate Sarah’s honest, practical approach and her ability to set clear expectations from the start. Whether guiding a parent through a custody dispute or helping a survivor of domestic violence secure protection, Sarah is dedicated to achieving outcomes that provide safety, stability, and a strong foundation for the future.
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Practice Area
15 years
Always
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Chat withState: Washington
Acquired: 2010
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601 Union Street, Suite 3030, Seattle, WA, 98101
10220 NE Points Drive, Suite 330, Kirkland, WA, 98033
51 Client Reviews
Showing 11 - 15 of 16 reviews | General Knowledge
Posted by Annie | January 09, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes
Fantastic, caring, and professional lawyer
I found Sarah via a google search of which she had already come highly recommended. After our initial consultation I knew she was the lawyer I wanted to work with. Sarah is extremely knowledgeable and very seasoned in the court room. Although my case lasted longer than what I preferred she delivered ...
Thank you Annie.
Posted by anonymous | November 16, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation
Excellent attorney, would recommend!
Sarah was very patient with us on our case, she explained everything and kept us advised each step of the way. She gave us all of our options and recommended which coarse of action we should take. We were concerned being out of state while the divorce case was in Washington, but Sarah was able to ha...
Thank you.
Posted by Bryce | June 03, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Child Custody
Outstanding Lawyer--Great Advocate for Fathers' Rights
Sarah came to me by recommendation. I am happy that I took the advice. Sarah is very knowledgeable, ethical, thorough, effective, and tough. As a father seeking primary custody, which is still difficult in Washington State, Sarah's sound advice and support from the time of my separation led to a fi...
Thank you Bryce.
Posted by anonymous | February 17, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Family
Would never recommend
I had a horrible experience with this attorney. When we went to court she was unaware of the facts. Constantly out of the office with no replacement or notice. Not aggressive enough for family law. Super expensive and just not worth it. She seemed overloaded by cases and too busy all the time. When y...
I strive to always represent all of my clients zealously and ethically, and for the utmost in client satisfaction. I am sorry to hear that you feel you had this experience. Please contact me directly so we can address your specific concerns and find a resolution.
Posted by Daryl | November 27, 2015 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation
Divorce mediation
I hired sarah as my divorce lawyer. Although my case never went to court and was settled in mediation, she proved to be very knowledgeable and helpful throughout this process. And as I hope to never need her services again I would definitely hire her if needed.
"Sarah was a great opposing counsel. She was very reasonable but firm, always strongly advocated for her client, always prepared and prompt."
"I absolutely endorse Sarah. She is always prepared, always attentive to her client's needs, and she puts in the extra effort that doesn't go unnoticed by those fortunate enough to have her represent them."
"Sarah is phenomenal lawyer who truly cares about her clients. She's a fighter. It is clear that she prides herself on not only achieving the best possible results for her clients but doing so in the most cost-effective way. It would be impossible for me to give her a stronger endorsement."
"Sarah is very knowledgeable in the area of family law, and dedicated to provide the best representation to her clients. I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer. Sarah is a good lawyer and a great person. She is the right fit for anyone going through a divorce"
""Exceptional!" That is how I would describe Sarah. I cannot count the number of times I have heard Sarah argue in open court and I am repetitively impressed by her poise, dictation, knowledge of the law and advocacy for her clients. If you are looking for strong, dedicated legal representation you will not be disappointed working with Ms. Hovland."
"I endorse this lawyer. Sarah is a brilliant and hard working attorney. She shows great care and consideration for her clients. Sarah has excellent insight into the law and is a strong advocate for her clients."
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2013
Pro Bono Award, Washington State Bar Association
2012
Pro Bono Award, Washington State Bar Association
2011
Outstanding Volunteer, Unemployment Law Project
2009
Graduated with Distinction, University of Warwick School of Law
2008
Dean's Academic Honor List, Gonzaga University School of Law
2025 - Present
Senior Attorney, Mckinley Irvin, PLLC
2024 - Present
Commissioner Pro Tempore, King County Superior Court
2014 - 2025
Attorney, Washington Family Law Group, PLLC
2011 - 2014
Attorney, The Redford Law Firm
2010 - 2011
Attorney, Unemployment Law Project
2007 - 2007
Legal Intern, Irish Business and Employers Confederation
2006 - 2008
Legal Intern, University Legal Assistance
2014 - Present
King County Bar AssociationMember
2014 - Present
United States District Court, Western District of WashingtonMember
2011 - Present
Tacoma Pierce County Bar AssociationMember
2010 - Present
Washington State Bar AssociationMember
Member
2009
LL.M - Master of Laws
2008
JD - Juris Doctor
2002
BA - Bachelor of Arts
English