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 1 - 5 of 8 reviews | Family
Posted by Hannah | October 10, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Family
Fantastic Attorney
Sarah is a fantastic, dedicated attorney; I think it would be hard to find someone commensurate with her level of skill, organization, and commitment to family law. She will not waste your time/money and will upfront and honest with what to expect throughout the whole process (even if it's hard to h...
Posted by Stephen | March 19, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Family
With much appreciation
I am very grateful for Sarah Hovland’s counsel and support during a difficult time in my life. From our first consultation, she demonstrated not only deep legal expertise, but also compassion and understanding. Sarah guided me through every step of the divorce process, ensuring I was informed and ...
Posted by Bryn | January 29, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Family
Communicative and Compassionate Attorney
Sarah helped me navigate my divorce and made the entire process easy to understand, especially when I was feeling overwhelmed or had questions about legal proceedings. She responded to all my communication quickly and provided clear answers. I appreciated her honesty, integrity, thoroughness, and com...
Sarah Hovland
Replied last January 30, 2024Thank you, Bryn, it was a pleasure working with you.
Posted by Justin | February 08, 2023 | Hired Attorney | Family
Amazing lawyer
Sarah is an amazing lawyer she is hard working and dedicated and does not miss. I would definitely recommend her to anyone that needs a family lawyer
Sarah Hovland
Replied last February 09, 2023Thank you, Justin.
Posted by Barbel | February 01, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Family
Help with my divorce case
My lawyer guided me through a very challenging time in my life when I was going through my divorce. She worked hard and explained every step of the way what was going on so I could understand the process. I was very happy with her work.
Sarah Hovland
Replied last February 01, 2018Thank you Barbel.
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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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