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Wolfgang Richter Anderson

Divorce and separation Attorney at Seattle, WA

4.8   82 reviews
Virtual consultation available
Virtual consultation available
  • Licensed for 57 years
    State WA
    Acquired 1966
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

About Wolfgang

Learn Wolfgang’s areas of practice.

EXPERIENCED DIVORCE ATTORNEY - CALL FOR A CONSULTATION - 206.569.8925

 

I commenced my practice in 1966 and have represented well over 1,000 clients inevery imaginable domestic situation. Between 1966 and 1970 I was a regular Army Captain in the United States Army as a member of the Third Armored Division. I grew up in Frankfurt, Germany and came to the United States in 1953 as a result of an adoption.  I lived first in Bellevue and for the last 40 years, in Seattle. I attended both the University of Washington and the University of Virginia.  I’ve also been the recipient of the German American Friendship Award, of which I believe I’m the only local attorney to receive.

 I’ve been designated a SuperLawyer by Law & Politics Magazine every year since 2005.

 For over 20 years I’ve belonged to the prestigious American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers ("AAML")(invitation only).

 I’ve been designated a Top Lawyer by Seattle Met Magazine and have had an AV rating from Martindale Hubbell (a lawyer’s rating service) for over 30 years.  (“AV” means a significant rating accomplishment; a testament to the fact that a lawyer’s peers rank him at thehighest level of professional excellence.)

 I have a wide range of clients, from ordinary employees to judges, professional athletes, doctors, professors, lawyers – you name it.

 

Awards

Client's Choice 2018,2016,2015,2014,2012,2011,2010
Client's Choice
2018 2016 2015 + 4 ...

Contact Wolfgang

Wolfgang Richter Anderson
207 E Edgar St
Seattle, WA, 98102-3108

Reviews

4.8 / 5.0
  82 customer reviews
Client's Choice 2018
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 Lauren | January 18, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Wolfgang: Practical and Didn't Waste my Money
I hired Wolfgang -- and his paralegal Anthony -- for my divorce case. I had heard rave reviews from another friend who had hired him. The best thing I liked about Wolf was that he is practical. My ex and I were able to negotiate the settlement agreement ourselves, and Wolf supported that idea. "The more you two can work out together without the lawyers talking to each other, the better." I would talk to my ex, we'd come up with a proposal, and I'd run it past Wolf and Anthony. I felt this process decreased the tension and possible animosity between my ex and I. Wolf knew what battles to fight and which ones to drop. I wanted to see if my ex could pay my property taxes, and Wolf said no. He said I should pay them myself. He was right. Our lawyers could have spent hours arguing over a tax bill. The legal fees would have been more than the tax bill, and in the end, I would likely have had to pay my taxes anyway. Initially, one of my worries about getting divorced was the expense of a lawyer. I felt like Wolf was not trying to run up my bill, which I really appreciated.
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Posted by anonymous | January 12, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceptional. Truly grateful to have worked with Wolfgang and his team.
I spent the better part of a year working with Wolfgang and his team (specific callout to his paralegal, Anthony) on my divorce. Despite a long and difficult journey, I always felt heard and taken care of. Wolf's experience (and reputation) as a divorce attorney in Seattle is second to none. My case greatly benefited from his years of hard work and dedication to divorce law. To be candid, this was not a fun journey for me. However, Wolf never made things harder than they needed to be. His advice was consistently sage, even when it was challenging. In the end, Wolf's work yielded a result that will allow me to rebuild my life in a new and better direction. I am truly grateful to have had Wolfgang and his team in my corner.
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Posted by Kristin | December 29, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
One of the best decisions I’ve ever made
During my divorce, I often felt that just about everything that could go wrong, did—everything, that is, except for the phenomenal legal representation that I received from Wolfgang Anderson and his paralegal Anthony Milliken. I thank my lucky stars that a friend referred me to this practice when I told her I was getting divorced. Wolfgang and Anthony’s complementary skills and expertise make them an incredibly effective team. My divorce ended up being ridiculously complicated and stressful, but no matter what crazy curveball my ex threw at us, Wolfgang and Anthony always had a plan. Wolfgang’s decades of expertise were invaluable, as he was able to find the perfect precedents for my situation in past case law—including cases that he himself was a part of. I really appreciated how responsive Wolfgang and Anthony were whenever a new issue arose, and it was clear they really cared about me, my kids, and the outcome of my case. These two strive to be efficient and keep costs and drama to a minimum, which means they will tell you when you are wrong—no fun to hear, but a very important quality for your law team to have. I truly believe my case would not have had the excellent outcome that it did if I’d had any other team representing me. Grateful beyond words and I can’t recommend them enough!
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Posted by Camilla | January 7, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Fantastic Attorney
It was pure luck that a friend referred me to Wolfgang’s practice, and hiring him and his paralegal Anthony was the best decision I made regarding my divorce. Wolf is a brilliant attorney with a lifetime of legal experience and expertise, which he skillfully applied to ensure the best possible outcome for my case. Wolfgang and Anthony are both highly experienced at what they do and have worked together for more than 20 years – the best team I could have asked for to represent me, and I feel lucky Wolfgang took on my case. Getting a divorce means stepping into the great unknown, but thanks to these two I always felt assured I was in expert hands. Their communication is exceptional, with Anthony always being one step ahead, never missing a single detail. I almost never had to wait more than an hour for a response, and usually heard back within minutes of sending an email. Wolf’s rates are very reasonable ($100 for an initial consultation that sold me on him) and they charged me much less than most others would have, saving me money not just in terms of their rates, but also due to their incredible efficiency, always looking to keep my expenses down without ever sacrificing quality representation. I wouldn’t hesitate recommending this amazing duo to anyone!
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Posted by Tobias | October 2, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Wolf is a true Seattle treasure
When everything you once knew is turned upside down through divorce, guidance from a trusted advocate is crucial. From my first meeting with Wolf and his paralegal, Anthony, I knew I had the right team. Wolf’s sharp, strategic planning, carved from years of experience and proven success, was a significant advantage. And Anthony never missed a beat while navigating a complex case. Their efficiency and care for my time and cost was a refreshing bonus. They are a dynamic duo whose expertise brought a favorable outcome. When you are up against it, you couldn’t ask for a better team.
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Posted by Wayne | May 16, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Stop looking, This is the guy for the job!!!!!!!
Divorce is like an uneasy sea of loneliness, uncertainty, and self-doubt. Stop drowning in these feelings and do what I did. Ever seen pulp fiction? When you’re in trouble you call the Wolf. With divorce it’s no different. Wolfgang will pull you out from sea of problems and questions, and get you on the right track properly, efficiently, and quickly. Wolfgang and his amazing paralegal Anthony are a dynamic duo. They have over 20 years working together and I felt at ease once I retained them as my team. His costs were more than fair and the work they put out was amazing. In my case I had been together with my ex for 15 years married for 5. In the last few years of my marriage my ex shifted to being the bigger bread winner and took no time to feel she was better than me. This is not an uncommon thing in the way of divorce. My ex had sought counsel 5 months prior to telling me about divorcing, all while having me jump through hoops in the promise these things would fix our marriage. Wolf wasn’t fazed at all and said that the only thing she had done was cost herself a lot more money. We had bought a huge house that she said she’d be taking along with my health care and my animals. No kids thank goodness but had that been present, I know Wolf wouldn’t have disappointed. My divorce took place during the pandemic forcing me to stay with loved ones until I could be made whole from my ex who was trying to strong arm me financially. I spoke with another attorney who charged me $575 for an hour and a half talk with little information coming my way. Furthermore the other attorney immediately wanted to file unnecessary injunctions that would have cost more money, and made things more complicated. Wolf talked to me briefly before I retained him and even encouraged me to interview others, but said it might cost me to do so. After reviewing him online I knew I had found the right person. He made everything simple to understand and always ready with a plan no matter what the opposing counsel sent my way. Wolf and Anthony’s communication was on point! Quick to respond and always a step ahead. The firm my ex hired didn’t stand a chance against the years of experience Wolf has. He’s nationally and locally recognized and for good reason. In the end, Wolf came out with what he promised and in a timely manner, all during a pandemic. Stop looking and make the first step to getting your life back. Life doesn’t have to end with divorce, for me it was a new beginning and a proper one thanks to these two amazing people. Hands down one of the best decisions I have ever made!
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Posted by anonymous | April 26, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceptional Attorney
I was referred to Mr. Anderson by a friend. Mr. Anderson is a very experienced, responsive family Attorney. I can’t thank Mr. Anderson and his paralegal Anthony enough for their guidance to get me through a difficult time. I highly recommend Mr. Anderson to anyone who needs a skillful, professional, and compassionate attorney.
Posted by Peter | April 14, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Results and No Nonsense
Wolf was referred to me by a prior client and I couldn't have been happier about the results. Both he and Anthony, his paralegal, were very responsive and always took the time to ensure I understood the details and nuances of the case. Wolf worked tirelessly. He developed many scenarios and responses to those based on his incredible knowledge of case law and current court views. In the end, I'm very confident Wolf saved me a lot of money and I'm glad he was on my side, not opposing me.
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Posted by anonymous | October 22, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Wolfgang is an exceptional attorney!!
Wolf made a most uncomfortable situation palitable. His excellent counsel put me at ease and guided me to a good outcome! I can't reccommend wolf enough!!!
Posted by anonymous | October 12, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A Family Friend referred me to Wolf and it was a wise choice
Wolf and Anthony are very experienced advocates and make an excellent team. When stepping into the great unknown, their process of communication and document requests is helpful. They remain exceedingly rational through it all and that is what a client needs, particularly when the opposing party is bitter, emotional, and unpredictable. Logistically, the location of their office is convenient as it is relatively central off of Eastlake and parking is pretty easy.
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Posted by Ditte | January 16, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Rock solid support
There is no question: Wolfgang is a brilliant strategist, is super intelligent and has a wealth of experience every opposing lawyer should envy. I was honored that he took on my case (I wasn't married, but in a CIR). And Anthony, his paralegal. Amazing also. Has an eagle's eye for details, answered questions with patience and is hard working. The whole time I felt their support as rock solid and in expert hands. The proces was stress full, yes, but we settled in mediation and I received what felt was right. Also, their bills were very reasonable and fair. I am so grateful to Wolfgang and Anthony. One could not wish for a better lawyer and legal team!
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Posted by anonymous | August 16, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Awesome Attorney and Law Office
I highly recommend Wolfgang and his paralegal Anthony due to the great work they provided me through the grim process of divorce. Compared to some other lawyers I consulted with, they were a breath of direct, realistic, honest, and knowledgeable fresh air. Meetings at their office were productive, efficient, and even somewhat of an adventure. Both of them are great to work with. They work hard, and their extensive experience really shows through in their results. If you’re looking for the best help you can get, give them a call.
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Posted by anonymous | July 29, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I could not have asked for a better team!
I can't thank Wolfgang and his legal team enough! Wolfgang was recommended to me by a friend who is an attorney in town and I could not have been in better hands. He brought precise legal guidance to very difficult divorce proceedings. More than his professional expertise, he brought wisdom and kindness to a challenging time in my life. He helped me understand the legal issues at play and to face the personal challenges along the way. The whole legal team operates with the same combination of phenomenal professional knowledge and incredible humanity. Anthony, my paralegal, answered all my endless questions very fast and with unfailing patience and kindness! I felt fully supported during the rockiest time of my life.
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Posted by Robert | May 17, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A great guy to work with.
Simply said, I would 100%, without a doubt recommend Wolf to anyone who may be thinking about getting a divorce. Wolf and his team were very easy to work with, they explained everything completely and did what they had to do to make my divorce as painless as possible. I couldn't imagine there is anyone out there who is easier to work with or who cares more about their clients future than Wolf and Anthony. A divorce is not a simple procedure, there will be bumps in the road, but Wolf and his team will keep you on track.
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Posted by anonymous | April 15, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Experienced Attorney and Talented Team - Highly Recommend
I was referred to Mr. Anderson by a friend. He is an incredible family law attorney. He implemented a very effective long term strategy for me and my family. While my divorce was extremely difficult both emotionally and financially, I knew that I was always in good hands with Wolfgang on my side as a true legal advocate for me as the underdog in my case. Unfortunately, we had to go to court multiple times to settle my case and I was extremely thankful to have Wolfgang on my side in the courtroom. He is a brilliant attorney with many years of experience and expertise in family law and a gifted attorney. I also truly appreciate the responsiveness and communication from Anthony his paralegal as well. Over many months of communication and meetings, Anthony was always kind, patient, responsive and helped me understand nuances of the process and information that I needed quickly during this very difficult time. I always felt confident that I was in experienced hands and that I had great team of advocates for me during my long and difficult legal process. I highly recommend Wolfgang Anderson and his team of experts. Wolfgang Anderson is a gifted family law attorney and a detailed strategist in family law. I highly recommend him and his team without hesitation.
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Posted by anonymous | December 31, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Divorced
I worked with Wolf on my complicated divorce for more than a year. It’s super apparent he’s been doing a good job for clients for decades. He does not, however, approach it as if he could do it in his sleep. My divorce was complicated, even though no custody issue; it did make him think to strategize, use his resources, study old cases and he very carefully analyzed the finances. He knew my finances and details better than I. I cannot say it was a painless process, but who can, and what matters is that I felt I got a fair deal in the end. Wolf did everything he could to get me the best possible deal, even to the point of getting his favorite mediator. One would need to be prepared that Wolf is very old school in the way he operates and bit quirky at times, which might be concerning to a client once they realize, but Wolf’s paralegal, Anthony, is very detail oriented, nothing falls through the cracks and Wolfs quirky personality ends up being endearing and entertaining during time that’s stressful and not fun! Wolf was not gender biased, which might be a concern because of his generation. I would highly recommend Wolfgang as your divorce attorney, he will do his best job for your particular case!
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Posted by Julie | June 25, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Experienced attorney & effective advocate for the underdog
I was referred to Mr. Anderson and was very fortunate he agreed to take me on as a client. During the initial consultation he quickly analyzed my situation and advised me how to pursue an amicable and financially reasonable approach to my unexpected divorce. Unfortunately for me, my ex was not interested in an amicable resolution, and Wolfgang quickly changed direction. He implemented an effective strategy that ultimately allowed me to settle my case in mediation, avoiding an ugly custody battle in court. His strategic abilities and knowledge greatly benefitted me and my children both emotionally and financially. While my divorce was a very difficult life event, I always felt confident that I was in experienced hands and that I had a real advocate in the legal process. I greatly appreciated Wolgang’s direct and clear communication style (he will always tell you the truth) and I was always kept up to date on timelines and proceedings. Wolfgang’s rates were reasonable, especially given his extensive experience and how quickly and efficiently he and his paralegal Anthony work. I really cannot say enough about his incredible paralegal Anthony who was patient, detail oriented, and responsive throughout the many, many months working together. In summary, Wolfgang and Anthony were excellent stewards throughout an unknown and very emotional time, knowing how to infuse humor and humanity into a very contentious and stressful process. They were always available for questions and explanations, helping me focus on what was important at each milestone. Wolfgang absolutely knows family law and is a top-notch strategist. I recommend him and his team without hesitation.
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Posted by tami | May 30, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great choice be on your side
Wolf and his paralegal Anthony were the best team I could have hoped for. Wolf always gave me good sound advice, let me know what the process was and kept me informed along the way. Wolf has many years experience and I felt I benefited from his deep understanding of the law relating to divorce. Anthony was very supportive and helpful. He is extremely organized and easy to talk to. I felt they both cared about me and wanted to help me get the best settlement I could hope for.
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Posted by Charles | May 3, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly recommended....
Wolf is a VERY experienced lawyer, and that is worth a lot. He has seen pretty much everything. He and his paralegal Anthony are great to work with. Wolf gave me objective, solid advice which was very useful in being able to reach a fair settlement in a timely manner with a minimum of haggling. Anthony is very efficient and easy to work with. I couldn't recommend them more highly.
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Posted by David | April 11, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Helped me get through a tough time with hope
I felt blindsided, pressured and a bit lost by my now ex's request for a divorce. I knew I needed a lawyer, and after interviewing a few attorney's I hired Wolfgang. I really appreciated his experience, assessment, and frank talk at times. I received a settlement I didn't think was possible and it changed how I viewed my options going forward in building a new life. Anthony, his assistant was very helpful too. I'm writing this almost a year after it all ended, so I have some perspective and still feel this way.
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Cost

Rates
  • Hourly Rates $ 400-400 per hour
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.9 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Principal
  • Anderson, Fields, McIlwain & Dermody, Inc., P.S.
  • 1977 - Present
  • Lawyer
  • Jonson & Jonson
  • 1970 - 1977
  • Attorney
  • Judge Advocate General's Office
  • 1966 - 1970

Education

  • University of Washington Law School
  • Juris Doctorate
  • 1966

Legal Cases

  • Pippins v. Jankelson, 110 Wn. 2d 475 (1988)
  • Brossman v. Brossman, 32 Wn. App. 851 (1982)
  • In re The Marriage of Freedman, 23 Wn. App. 27 (1979)
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Member
  • 1967 - Present
  • Member
  • 1967 - Present
  • Washington State Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1970 - 2007

Languages Spoken

  • German
  • English

Honors and Awards

  • AV Rating
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2014
  • America's Best Lawyer
  • Woodward/White
  • 2014
  • Super Lawyer
  • Washington Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2013
  • Super Lawyer
  • Washington Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2012
  • Super Lawyer
  • Washington Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2011
  • Super Lawyer
  • Washington Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2010
  • Super Lawyer
  • Washington Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2009
  • Super Lawyer
  • Washington Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2008
  • Super Lawyer
  • Washington Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2007
  • Super Lawyer
  • Washington Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2006
View all awards

Publications

  • Divorce in Washington
  • Divorce in Washington
  • 2000

Speaking Engagements

  • AAML Conference
  • Boutique Issues
  • 2007
  • AAML Conference
  • Property Division
  • 2005

Attorney endorsements

Received (11)
Given (11)
Endorse Wolfgang
Family Attorney | May 31
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"There is a reason Wolfgang Anderson is legendary. Any lawyer working as opposing counsel knows that his powers of persuasion are incredibly effective in court. As a client, you can rely on Wolf to present the best side of your case. Wolf's experience, skill, and record of results is unsurpassed."
Family Attorney | Apr 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this Wolfgang. I've worked with and against Wolfgang for many years. I have only the higest respect for his skills and abilities. There are only a few attorneys who can match Wolfgang's power or persuasion in settlement negotations or in the courtroom."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Jan 28
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse Wolfgang Anderson as highly competent and professional in the area of family law. Though I have opposed him in cases for several decades now, he has kindly served as a mentor to me and to many other family law attorneys in Seattle. His word is his bond which is extremely refreshing in this field. In a word, there's none of the normal "monkey business" when you are dealing with Wolfgang Anderson."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Jan 26
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Wolfgang is one of the most recognized pros in the NW and he deserves his big reputation. He gets right to the issues, gets the absolute best results obtainable at great value, and moves on to his many other good clients. Best paralegal support in town too (aside from my own) I would send my own brother over there."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Jun 12
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I have handled several domestic relation matters where Wolfgang was opposing counsel. I found him to be exceptionally well prepared and a committed advocate for his clients while he has always been willing to seek an amicable resolution which served his clients' best interests. He was equally prepared to do battle to protect those same interests. although having him as opposing counsel is no picnic, I would certainly want him on my side going into any divorce or related domestic relations matter."
Divorce and separation Attorney | May 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Wolf is a friend of mine and a fellow lawyer. I have known him for over fifteen years. He is a quality person and a great lawyer. He is one of the best divorce lawyers in the Seattle area. He is sensitive to the needs of his client, he knows when to settle a case and he knows when to try a case. I refer clients to Wolf on a regular basis."
Family Attorney | Dec 11
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Wolf is an outstanding family law lawyer. He is a brilliant legal strategist and master in the courtroom. He gives straight, solid advice to his clients and is fearless in battle. The clients I have referred to him have all thanked me."
Family Attorney | Dec 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Wolf Anderson is a strong and ethical advocate for his clients. Wolf is practical and gives his clients realistic advice. While a formidable opponent, Wolf is also a pleasure to work with as an opposing attorney."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Oct 02
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer's work. I have worked with Wolf on several cases over the course of the last thirty (30) years. He is truly exemplary in his problem-solving approaches and clearly ranks among those who make fellow family-law practitioners proud of what we do. He is always a pleasure to work with and, very often, we have been able to resolve cases without having to put clients through the often onerous milieu of discovery. I have referred cases to him in conflict situations and he has done likewise, That, I think, is a mark of the respect which we have for each other."
Family Attorney | Mar 10
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer's work. I have been opposing counsel to this attorney for over twenty years on numerous cases. He does a great job and a pleasure to work with, regardless of whether we agree or disagree on issues. My opinion is that he is one of the best attorneys in the Seattle area."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Jun 06
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer's work. Wolfgang is a great laweyr with a formidable reputation in family law. He should be rated a 10 in anybody's book. "
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Divorce and separation
Divorce and separation
Divorce and separation
Divorce and separation
Personal injury
Personal injury
Divorce and separation
Litigation

Avvo Contributions

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Seattle Divorce and separation Lawyer Wolfgang Richter Anderson
Wolfgang Richter Anderson
Divorce and separation Attorney
Seattle, WA
Licensed for 57 years
Virtual consultation available