Sarah Elizabeth Hovland
About Sarah
Biography
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.
Practice Areas
1
Practice Area
15 years
Fees and Rates
Cost
Always
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
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Chat withLicenses
Licensed in Washington for 15 years
State: Washington
Acquired: 2010
No misconduct found
Location
McKinley Irvin
601 Union Street, Suite 3030, Seattle, WA, 98101
McKinley Irvin
10220 NE Points Drive, Suite 330, Kirkland, WA, 98033
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Sarah Elizabeth Hovland's Reviews
Avvo Review Score
51 Client Reviews
Showing 41 - 45 of 51 reviews
Posted by Wesley | February 22, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation
Excellent attorney!
Sarah represented me in my divorce and I could not have asked for better council. She was informative, honest, professional and saw to it I was treated fairly and represented well. She made what is a difficult and stressful time much easier on me by her calm and collected handling and responses. I wo...
Sarah Hovland
Replied last February 22, 2016Thank you Wes
Posted by Ralph | February 22, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation
Amazing Lawyer
First time I consulted with Sarah, I was very impressed with the way she conducted herself, she was very professional, aggressive and on point with every single issue I had (unlike my previous lawyer which charged the same hourly rate). I am so lucky to have my case transferred to Sarah, Not only did...
Sarah Hovland
Replied last February 22, 2016Thank you, Ralph
Posted by anonymous | February 19, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation
Divorce Case
Sarah met my expectations for a divorce attorney and I was pleased with the service and response times. We went to mediation and resolved the case
Sarah Hovland
Replied last February 19, 2016Thank you
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...
Sarah Hovland
Replied last February 17, 2016I 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 Darci | February 17, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation
Couldn't ask to be in better hands
I recently went through a difficult divorce and was so thankful to have Sarah as my attorney. She was very prompt and responsive to my inquiries and concerns. She stayed calm through the many continuances that my ex-husband requested which helped my anxiety level a great deal. She got me a very fa...
Sarah Hovland
Replied last February 17, 2016Thank you Darci
Sarah Elizabeth Hovland's Lawyer Endorsements
"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 skilled family law attorney."
"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."
"I endorse this lawyer."
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Family lawyer
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Family lawyer
Experience
Honors
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
Work Experience
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
Associations
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
Education
2009
LL.M - Master of Laws
2008
JD - Juris Doctor
2002
BA - Bachelor of Arts
Languages
English