Kathryn Verity Fields

Kathryn Verity Fields

4.8
Rating: 9.3

Licensed for 40 years

Divorce and separation Lawyer at Seattle, WA
Practice Areas: Divorce & Separation, Child Support, Child Custody ... +2 more

702 3rd Avenue, Suite # 2015, Seattle, WA

About Kathryn

Biography

Practice Areas

5

Practice Areas

Alimony 20%

37 years

20%
Child Custody 20%

37 years

20%
Child Support 20%

37 years

20%

Fees and Rates

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer


Looking for an attorney? Avvo can help.

search module image

Search our directory

Quickly connect with top attorneys through our legal directory to get help with your legal issue.

chat module image

Avvo's live chat agents can help coordinate a consultation with a local attorney.

Chat with a live agent who can match you with the right attorney for your legal needs.

Chat with

Licenses

Licensed in Washington for 40 years

State: Washington

Acquired: 1985

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Elise Buie Family Law Group

702 3rd Avenue, Suite # 2015, Seattle, WA, 98104

Ad

Transform legal challenges into solutions.

Connect now to review your situation.

The Avvo Rating explained

display-bg

The Avvo Rating explained

Kathryn Verity Fields's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.8 /5.0

20 Client Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (20) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.

Showing 1 - 5 of 5 reviews | Responsiveness

Posted by Sara | March 20, 2022 | Hired Attorney | Family

The best of the best

When I first realized it was time for me to get a lawyer… I was very nervous and skeptical of what to expect, and what I was paying for. Then I met Kathryn Fields at Elise Buie. Since day one, she has made me finally feel at ease. I have been taken advantage of and bullied by my ex-spouse and his gi...rlfriend for far too long. I didn’t know the law, or my rights. Kathryn, being extremely educated and knowledgeable in family law, guided, mentored and empowered me. At any time, whenever I needed her, she was immediately available and held the upmost professionalism. Most importantly, she actually CARES about my son and I. She fights for us. She gave me my wings back and that is not something you can pay for. If you need someone to fight for you, or assist in any way, all while genuinely caring, Kathryn Fields in my honest opinion is the one you WANT on your side. I am forever grateful. I wish I could give 10 stars!

Posted by Alaina | July 12, 2021 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes

Thorough, kind and exceptionally helpful

Kathryn was diligent and really helped to navigate my case in a fair and realistic manner. She was very responsive and worked hard for a very positive outcome for me. I appreciated her ability to keep all parties on track including the opposing counsel. Had she not been so on the ball I really believ...e this case would have drug out much longer than it needed to. I will forever appreciate the dedication she had to my case.

Posted by anonymous | June 14, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Started good, ended sadly

I hired Kathryn in 2012 for post decree matters. Kathryn is a very experienced attorney, very well versed in WA family law, and seems to be an advocate for her clients. However, after about a year and a half, my experience is that she mishandled my case simply by not handling it at all. She and her p...aralegal repeatedly promised to me in writing and via phone that things were "being worked on" and that my case was at the top of her priority list. This recurred for months throughout late 2014 and 2015. I gave her the benefit of the doubt for way too long, likely because prior to this behavior she'd been really wonderful. In my time as a client, I could see that Kathryn is highly disorganized and has not embraced technology which causes gross inefficiencies in her office and practice. She does not use a proper client billing system either and it's not exactly a confidence builder for a client, in my opinion. I believe she takes on way more than she can realistically handle, and in addition, she seems to be understaffed. It became a recipe for disaster. Unless you have an expensive and active trial going, she's possibly not going to make you a priority, although she or her paralegal will tell you differently. I moved on when it became apparent her lack of work was a major source of stress for my family. Our new attorney then accomplished more in a few weeks than Kathryn attempted in almost an entire year. That was my family's experience with Kathryn V Fields.

Kathryn Fields

Replied last June 14, 2019

Without addressing the issues or facts in this client's case specifically, there are some general principles that apply to any case. ................................... Clients caught in difficult family law issues often bring to their attorney a wide range of problems to sort through that they have with the other parent/former spouse. In addition to legitimate complaints a client may have regarding the other parent/former spouse, it is not uncommon for a client to have claims that don't legally constitute a violation by the other parent or there may even be issues in which the client is in the wrong. ...................................... Once action is taken against the other party and the client is successful in court or has experienced a series of vindications, some mistake that success as a green light to pursue any and all complaints they may have with the other side. They should not. ................................... A competent attorney is responsible for both advocating for their client and advising their client. At our office, we pursue claims for a client that are consistent with the law, brought in good faith, and where the client is entitled to a remedy because the other party is violating the law, not complying with a court order, or otherwise needs to be brought under control. We explain to all clients, however, that we do not serve their best interests by pursuing any and all matters without regard to merit. Doing so not only weakens the legitimate claims our client may have in the future, but also exposes the client to getting sanctioned (fined) by the Court and/or made to pay the other side's attorneys fees. ........................... If a client wishes to pursue an agenda that is frivolous, is ill-advised, or not supported by the law or orders in their case, a responsible attorney should decline to do so. If the client disagrees with the management of their case or course of action (or inaction) recommended by their attorney they should seek a second opinion and/or new counsel. ........................... All attorneys are different. Other competent lawyers may have a different analysis that the client finds more compatible with their view. Like many things, one size does not fit all. We support the client's right to change counsel when that happens. .............................................. The attorney/client relationship has to be a comfortable fit for the client for it to work effectively. We celebrate the successful outcomes we are able to pursue and provide our clients, and wish them well if they decide to seek new counsel to pursue claims or an agenda beyond which we feel serve them well. .......................... Kathryn

Posted by HAROLD | April 19, 2012 | Family

Simply The Best Attorney

Kathryn is extremely professional, knowledgeable and achieves the best results possible. She provides superb legal advice, outstanding legal documents based on the law and knows how to deal with attorneys who tend to bully others. Kathryn is extremely effective in achieving the best outcomes for he...r clients. She listens, understands, has the highest integrity and a heart of gold. Kathryn is the best attorney I have ever worked with and has become a family friend. I have never been disappointed with her work or effort and have found her to be extremely dedicated to being the best for her client. Kathryn has been my attorney for over 3 years and I never want to hire anyone else. She adopts new methods to communicate and ensures her clients are always kept abreast of their case. I was deployed in Iraq and was able to transfer legal documents to Kathryn via pdf. We still utilize pdf documents to get documents exchanged quickly. Thank you Kathryn for all you do and for keeping my family together. I highly recommend Kathryn if you want the best results.

Posted by anonymous | September 15, 2009 | Lawsuits & Disputes

Disappointed with overall service

For the money spent, was disappointed with the service received. I went with this attorney because of the experience they had, even though their rate was higher than others. In exchange, I was expecting timely and responsive service. Although knowledgeable, getting a response sometimes took over a... week. I had often had to follow up to ensure that progress was being made on my case. This increase in time led to an increased bill. My goals were achieved, but it seems to have cost twice as much and taken three times as long as I would have expected.

Kathryn Fields

Replied last April 08, 2013

Dear Client, Thanks for the feedback. The legal system does move slower than we would prefer sometimes. After nearly thirty years in practice, we understand it is hard for clients to be patient at times. Our office provides timely and responsive service to our clients. Due to the cost to the client for attorney time, we try to respect clients' limited budgets. We typically do not call clients to report there has been no change on their case or that we are still waiting for a deadline or time frame to pass. I'm pleased your goals were in fact achieved. You mention you often initiated consultations requesting progress reports. Some clients feel the need for such extra support and assurances. We provide such a service when requested and at the same fee level as other services. It may help to understand, however, status reports don't make deadlines pass any faster or ensure progress is being made. We are happy to be available to talk with our clients whenever needed. Most clients understand that extra calls to one's lawyer unfortunately also means an increased bill for the increased time. Kind regards, K.

See All Client Reviews

Kathryn Verity Fields's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Kathryn
Kathryn M. Woods headshot
Kathryn Woods

Family lawyer | Jul 26

Relationship: Supervised lawyer

"Kathryn is the best legal writer I have ever had the privilege of meeting. She has a star legal mind and would be an asset to any family law case."

Valerie Lynn Kramer headshot
Valerie Kramer

Domestic violence lawyer | Dec 13

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Kathryn as an attorney for over 30 years. Without a doubt, she is one of the most conscientious and tireless advocates that any client could hope to have on their team. Kathryn is outstandingly competent, ethical and able to cut to the legal heart of the matters with which she deals."

Natalie Rosenbaum De Maar headshot
Natalie De Maar

Unknown lawyer | Nov 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Kathryn is a hardworking attorney who is extremely devoted to her clients."

Philip R. Shucklin headshot
Philip Shucklin

Divorce and separation lawyer | Oct 02

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. I have had the opportunity to work with Katherine on a number of cases over the years. I have always known her to be extremely well informed and a tireless advocate for her client. She is extremely hard working and a credit to the profession. I have always known her to be tough but fair in my dealings with her."

Robert Charles Kaufman headshot
Robert Kaufman

Divorce and separation lawyer | Feb 17

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Kathryn and I have opposed one another in a few cases over the years, and I always welcome the opportunity to work with such a knowledgeable, experienced, and down to earth attorney. Kathryn is adept at protecting her clients' interests and achieving their goals in an efficient and effective manner. Kathryn is an excellent advocate for her clients, and anyone facing divorce would be well-served by choosing her as their attorney."

Kevin Don Tarvin headshot
Kevin Tarvin

Divorce and separation lawyer | Aug 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Kathryn Fields wholeheartedly. There is not another attorney in King County practicing family law (divorce, custody, modifications, etc) who has more experience and expertise. There is no substitute for experience. All legal circumstance associated with family law proceedings are second nature to Kathryn because she has seen it all and has effectively and successfully helped thousands of clients facing divorce. I encourage anyone in need of assistance with a family law matter to contact Kathryn. If you know someone facing critical family related issues, give them Kathryn's name with confidence. Some are interested in knowing that she is fantastic assisting both men and women because she understands these very different perspectives."

Frances Turean headshot
Frances Turean

Family lawyer | Apr 19

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Kathryn was opposing counsel on a highly contentious dissolution case. She came thoroughly prepared for our mediation, and we surprisingly settled. On another case, we were able to resolve the entire matter without one court hearing. That takes above average skill!"

Jason Giesler headshot
Jason Giesler

Family lawyer | Apr 08

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Ms. Fields is the attorney that I turn to when I need help with family law matters. She is extremely knowledgeable and she is highly experienced with many of the most complex family law issues. Ms. Fields is one of the finest advocates that I know and I have watched her shepherd many clients through extremely difficult cases. Ms. Fields works tirelessly on behalf of her clients and she represents every one with diligence and zealousness. I highly endorse this lawyer and I refer complex and difficult family law cases to her with confidence."

Richard Ronald Bernstein headshot
Richard Bernstein

Divorce and separation lawyer | Feb 27

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I first met Kathryn Fields many years ago when she and I had offices in the same suite. From time to time she asked me to assist her to deal with business or real estate issues that arose in connection with family law matters in which she was representing parties. She was a pleasure to work with. I know of no lawyers who works harder for their clients than she. I am pleased to call her my colleague and friend and to recommend her to others."

Ken Tsiprin headshot
Ken Tsiprin

Family lawyer | Feb 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly endorse this lawyer. Kathryn is an outstanding advocate for her clients and highly respected by other attorneys for her work. You can be assured of top of the line representation when you are represented by Kathryn. She is exceptionally well-informed, aggressive, and dedicated to her clients."

Madeline Gauthier headshot
Madeline Gauthier

Family lawyer | Jan 31

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. My practice is in estate planning, and from time to time, I've had to refer clients to a family attorney. Kathryn has exceeded their expectations. I'm very proud to recommend her."

Jill A Salmi headshot
Jill Salmi

Divorce and separation lawyer | Jan 16

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. I worked with Kathryn on a complex case. Kathryn is bright, diligent and knows the law. She is a strong advocate for her clients. She is an excellent choice, especially in matters involving parenting disputes, whether in initial divorce actions or modification matters."

Jeannette Ann Cohen headshot
Jeannette Cohen

Family lawyer | Nov 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. I have worked with Kathryn on family law cases and I have consulted with her on various issues in this practice area. She is very knowledgeable and highly experienced in this field. One of the best Family Law attorneys I have worked with!"

Virginia Monica Paula Onu headshot
Virginia Onu

Family lawyer | Mar 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Kathryn is very experienced, dilligent and caring. She works hard on behalf of her clients, and is just an all around great lawyer."

View All Endorsements
Leslie Jean Olson headshot
Leslie Olson

Appeals lawyer

Kathryn M. Woods headshot
Kathryn Woods

Family lawyer

Natalie Rosenbaum De Maar headshot
Natalie De Maar

Family lawyer

Jeannette Ann Cohen headshot
Jeannette Cohen

Education lawyer

Robert Charles Kaufman headshot
Robert Kaufman

Divorce and separation lawyer

Kevin Don Tarvin headshot
Kevin Tarvin

Criminal defense lawyer

Jason Giesler headshot
Jason Giesler

Litigation lawyer

Evan Lee Loeffler headshot
Evan Loeffler

Landlord or tenant lawyer

Richard Ronald Bernstein headshot
Richard Bernstein

Business lawyer

Ken Tsiprin headshot
Ken Tsiprin

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer

Jill A Salmi headshot
Jill Salmi

Divorce and separation lawyer

Mary Margaret Puhlick headshot
Mary Puhlick

Family lawyer

Madeline Gauthier headshot
Madeline Gauthier

Wills and living wills lawyer

Frances Turean headshot
Frances Turean

Divorce and separation lawyer

Ted C. Barr headshot
Ted Barr

DUI and DWI lawyer

Valerie Lynn Kramer headshot
Valerie Kramer

Litigation lawyer

Philip R. Shucklin headshot
Philip Shucklin

Divorce and separation lawyer

Virginia Monica Paula Onu headshot
Virginia Onu

Family lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.3 (Superb)

Honors

2019

BV Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2017

Pro Bono Publico Service Commendation, Washington State Bar Association

2013

Top Contributor - Domestic Violence, AVVO

2012

Client's Choice - Domestic Violence, AVVO

2010

Pro Bono Publico Service Commendation, Washington State Bar Association

2009

Who's Who in Family Law, Washington Law & Politics Magazine

2007

Pro Bono Publico Service Commendation, Washington State Bar Association

2006

Who's Who in Family Law, Washington Law & Politics Magazine

2005

BV Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2004

Pro Bono Publico Service Commendation, Washington State Bar Association

2000

ADR Standing Committee Recognition, Washington State Bar Association

Work Experience

2021 - Present

Senior Attorney, Of Counsel, Elise Buie Family Law Group

1989 - Present

Private Practice, Law Offices of Kathryn V. Fields

2017 - 2017

Volunteer Attorney, Eastside Legal Assistance Program

1987 - 1989

Corporate Counsel, Exploration Cruise Lines, Inc.

1986 - 1987

Associate Attorney, Law Offices of James S. Turner

1986 - 1986

In-house staff attorney, Yatchship Cruise Line, Inc.

1985 - 1986

Corporate Counsel, Alaska Tour & Marketing Services, Inc.

1983 - 1984

Associate Editor, Willamette Law Review

1982 - 1984

Research Assistant, Willamette University College of Law for Carlton Snow, JD

1982 - 1983

Staff Member - Editing and Citations -, Willamette Law Review

1982 - 1983

Staff Member - Book Reviews (Maritime Law) -, ASILS Law Review

1982 - 1982

Volunteer Legal Tutor, Third World Student Organization

1978 - 1981

Educator, Mock Trial Program, Sitton Disciplinary Project, Portland Public Schools

Associations

1989 - Present

United States District Court for the Western District of Washington

Member

1985 - Present

Washington State Bar Association

Member

Washington State Bar Association, Family Law Section

Member

King County Bar Association

Member

1991 - 1992

Washington State Trial Lawyers Association

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

In re Marriage of: Dammarell v. Dammarell

Our client prevailed. Decision reported at: Washington Court of Appeals, Division I, In re: Dammarell v. Dammerell, Unreported Opinion, 07/06/1999

See More Legal Cases

Education

1984

Willamette University College of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1977

Portland State University

BS - Bachelor of Science

Speaking Engagements

2013

EKCBA March Family Law Section Meeting

Selected 2012 Decisions Impacting Washington Family Law

2010

"Real Estate Radio" - Episode 08/14/2010

Divorce and Real Estate

2007

EKCBA November Family Law Section Meeting

Uniform Child Custody, Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act

1999

Family Law Midyear Seminar

UCCJEA: Replacement for the UCCJA

Publications

2013

Self-published Coursebook for CLE presentation Cases of Note: Selected 2012 Decisions Impacting Washington Family Law

2007

Self-published Coursebook for CLE presentation Mysteries of the Forum Non Conveniens Motion

1999

WSBA Family Law Midyear Seminar Coursebook Chapter 16: UCCJEA, the Replacement for the UCCJA

1987

Christianity Today Letters: What's a Lawyer Worth?

1983

Willamette Law Review Field Burning: New Tinder for the Flame of Strict Liability

Languages

English

Activity

Avvo Rating

Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not.

What determines Avvo Rating?
  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • Discipline 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.
Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution