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Jan Phillip Olson

Sex crime Attorney at Seattle, WA

5.0   47 reviews
  • Licensed for 42 years
    State WA
    Acquired 1981
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

About Jan

Learn Jan’s areas of practice.

2
Practice areas
  1. Sex crime
    65%
    Experienced & Aggressive Defense - Child Molestation, Child Pornography, Rape, Sexual Assault, Prostitution

    42 years, 3,500 cases

  2. Criminal defense
    35%
    Experienced & Aggressive Defense - Assault, Harassment, Domestic Violence, Drug Offenses, Sex Offenses, DUI, DWI

    42 years, 3,500 cases

Jan is an accomplished and experienced criminal defense attorney who cares deeply for his clients. Specializing in sex crime cases, he combines compassion with a forthright manner to help his clients navigate through the complexities of the criminal justice system.  A native of the Pacific Northwest, he earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Washington (Go Huskies!) and his law degree at the University of Idaho.  A member of the Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, he has been practicing law in Seattle for over 35 years.

Jan is a world travel junky, an avid music lover and trivia expert – with a legendary vinyl collection.

Photos and videos

Contact Jan

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Ellis, Li & McKinstry PLLC
1700 Seventh Avenue, Suite 1810
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Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  47 customer reviews
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Posted by anonymous | April 7, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Foster case
Jan and his staff did a great job resolving my case and doing it very timely. It was money well spent
Posted by anonymous | August 25, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Felony DV/DVPO Case
I hired Jan during the darkest times of my life. Having dealt with a vindictive ex wife amidst a nasty divorce in which led to false criminal accusations. WA State really does take the alleged victim so so seriously. Jan was incredibly compassionate, attentive, and listened to my story without judgement. The day of my arraignment, I was scared beyond what words could describe. As a young adult and an active military service member, my life was completely uprooted. After commanding respect and authority in the courtroom, we stepped out and he said “Listen, everything will be okay.” I will never forget those words. I needed to hear that more than anything. He always responded in a timely matter with detailed answers to my questions even on weekends and at ridiculous hours of the day. He truly cares about his clients. His sense of humor definitely helps ease your anxiety as well. If he tells you he’s going to do something, he will do it. He is an absolute man of his word. One of the top attorneys in this state. 45 years of experience and it definitely shows. Thank you Jan for everything. You’re a god given man.
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Posted by Olivia | June 24, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Good person
I call Jan Olson for DVPO matter, Jan was honest and direct, when he found out the matter was involved child (not his filed more family law matter), he said he will call a lawyer for me to have that lawyer to take my case, I almost thought I heard him wrong ( usually ppl just give names that’s it). Jan actually took his time and called and emailed one of best lawyer in family law filed for me and called me back to gave me her number. Wow, I’m a such cruel word of law , Jan is a gem and good heart human being. He took the time to help me and getting nothing out of this. I’m so touched. After working and talking to many attorneys, he is one with compassion and empathy. I highly recommend him, lawyers with good heart will not do you wrong!
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Posted by Ryan | May 12, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
FREEDOM
Professional, timely, and genuine sound legal counsel. Up against multiple municipalities at the same time, Mr. Olson strategically navigated the justice system to bring closure to my case for a successful termination and closure in a very trying and difficult time in my life. Highly referred and highly recommended. Sincerely grateful.
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Posted by Joe | January 29, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Bekins standard: Careful, Quick, and Kind
I have known Jan for two years through a Bible Study group. When my son called me at 2:00 am for help with his DUI accident I knew just who to call (later in the day). I hired him that day with my son’s agreement. Jan immediately secured the police reports and followed up with my son to outline the situation. He secured my son’s release from custody the next day. Throughout the two months he informed us of the options and likely outcomes of each alternative. He specifically cared for my son’s long-term welfare, not just his immediate result. The net result is my son’s continuing freedom, several years of counseling and an ignition interlock and the prospect of a clean record. Altogether a great outcome compared to what might have been. Throughout the process Jan was immediately responsive, legally knowledgeable, and familiar with the players in the courtroom; in other words, the consummate professional. Thank You, Jan.
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Posted by anonymous | September 19, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great defense attorney
We worked with Jan to defend our teen against criminal accusations. We were referred to Jan by another professional in the field who told us, "If it were my kid, I would want Jan. He's the best there is." Jan responded to our initial inquiry within minutes, and was always super responsive when we had questions. He had the long view in mind from the start, and knew at each point along the way what our options were and what proactive steps could be taken to keep things in our favor. Jan knows who he's dealing with in our local legal system, and how to work for his client's best interest in that milieu. He helped our teen avoid a felony conviction, with the potential for an expunged record after probation. We are very grateful for Jan's work.
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Posted by Tom | July 23, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Jan Cares About His Clients
Jan took a case to defend our son for rape. The case was unusual in that our son turned himself in, but the victim did not want charges pressed. Jan got the charges reduced, set our son on a course of much needed counseling, and personally counseled our son on the urgency of turning his life around.
Posted by anonymous | May 24, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Call Jan first
A coworker of mine gave me Jan's name when someone I know well got a DUI. He was fantastic so I kept his contact number. Years later I found myself in an incident and immediately called Jan, he gave me sage advice so when the police wanted to talk to me all I had to say was "Please contact my lawyer Jan Olson" and they walked away, thus speaking to his reputation around the justice system. I was very pleased with the end result.
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Posted by John | May 23, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thoughtful and knowledgeable
I had need of a lawyer and I hired Mr. Olson on a recommendation from a friend. Jan was thoughtful and knowledgeable. He seemed to know everyone involved in the process personally. He was able to guide me to a conclusion that I believe was the best possible outcome.
Posted by anonymous | April 4, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Hire Jan Olson to represent you
Jan is a very intelligent Criminal Attorney. With his vast experience he has familiarity with the courts and important court personnel. Jan is not only intelligent but cares deeply and is hard working. My Domestic Violence case was complicated as it involved 2 charges and 2 separate courts. As the cases went along Jan worked closely with each courts prosecutor to come to a global resolution with a very favorable outcome. Throughout the complicated process Jan always kept me informed and always answered readily any questions I had. I highly recommend hiring Jan to represent you.
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Posted by Richard | December 14, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Beyond Expectations - Best Legal Care
Jan Olson came highly recommended...and I now know why, and I also join the chorus - Jan Olson is an expert, professional defense attorney that deserves the highest marks as he delivered outcomes that exceeded my expectations. Jan was engaged and patient during our initial meeting, making me feel like I was being heard, understood and cared for. He was straight forward and represented the Law in a very clear manner. I had made a mistake yet needed a legal defense. Jan Olson, along with his team of colleagues and staff took great care for my case and my curiosities between visits. Jan (and his colleagues) were always prompt to get back to me, always keeping me well informed and prepared. The representation I had, came not only in a good name/reputation and not only in years of experience, but in my opinion, Jan's legal defense (knowledge, preparation, and strategy) went the extra mile...and it lead to an outcome/judgement that was more or better than I expected...it was what I hoped for but didn't think would/could happen. I believe aspects of my case and outcomes only came as a result of Jan's expertise. (This is not the venue to describe specifics of my case, but I can tell you Jan's strategy are ethical and informed while adept at leveraging the law and rights of the defendant.) I genuinely believe our city has many great attorneys, but one that I can FULLY and confidently endorse is Jan Olson. If you need a legal Defense, you need (to consider and hire) Jan Olson.
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Posted by anonymous | December 8, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
REGINALDKAYDIA.
Thank for everything that you have done for us. You have given us to he information that we need in order to get a lawyer and we appreciate you.
Posted by Shelby | November 16, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Wonderful
I highly recommend Jan Olson. He has an immediate response time, and was able to help with what I needed in an incredibly short amount of time. Very knowledgeable, informative, and respectful.
Posted by anonymous | October 14, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Life can go sideways before you can apply the brake!
I called my account and a friend who is an attorney, they do not know each other but both recommend Jan Olson. Jan is a hard working, honest,and cost conscious advocate! Use the best it will cost you less.
Posted by Anthony | March 31, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highest recomendation!
I knew Jan away from the legal world. One day I ended up in legal trouble and phoned Jan on what I should do. Fortunately for me, his expertise was my subject matter. He promptly set up an appointment, and we discussed the strategy. His knowledge in approaching my case impressed me immensely. I wasn't able to obtain an innocent plea (since I obliviously wasn't), but Jan was able to put me at ease throughout the probation process. His court demeanor is top-notch and I feel anyone is in great and confident hands if they hire Jan as an attorney.
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Posted by Alicia | November 1, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The Best Lawyer I Could Have Ever Hoped For
I was notified by HR that my job was on the line due to a warrant for my arrest that came up on my background check. I hired Jan to help me quash this unbeknownst-to-me scare and not only did he make the time immediately to meet me, he sought extra counsel for making sure that I reported the quash and case closing correctly and effectively. Within 24 hours of meeting Jan, he cleared time and worked with my schedule to get us in court to settle the matter. He was stalwart and firm in the courtroom, and courteous and obliging outside of the courtroom. Having begun this predicament in terror and shock, I can say with full honesty that Jan helped turn it all around, and I would gladly recommend him and his services to anyone.
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Posted by Steve | April 14, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Simply the Best in the Business
I retained Jan in a criminal suit. I had not idea what to expect or how to deal with the system I found myself. Throughout the process Jan emphasized the truth will win out. I took his lead and let him do his job and the result was the truth won out. Jan is an impeccable lawyer who bleeds integrity and sound moral character. He is well known in the industry and gives his clients 150%. I spent many late nights discussing the case and next steps and he never flinched. He isn't just your legal counsel he is your advocate in a system that is not favorable to ethical people. You would do yourself a huge injustice if you don't retain Jan in any legal issue. He is the best in the business and I wouldn't trust anyone else with my life and defense.
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Posted by anonymous | April 12, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Steadfast, detail oriented defense
I was charged with a major sex crime I committed many years in the past. From the beginning of my engagement with Jan, he gave me great information to steady my nerves as we went through the justice process, and made sure to hold as many options for me open as he possibly could. When we began, it looked like I would spend the next 4 to 11 years in prison. Jan's connections to local sex crime treatment facilities were invaluable. Because he knew how their evaluations had played out in courts and before prosecutors, and how they were not perceived as being defense-oriented, my excellent evaluation from that facility was treated far better than I imagine it would have been otherwise. Eventually, after about a year, Jan noticed that the law under which I was being prosecuted had been changed in 2009 to extend the statute of limitations, and that under the prior law, the statute of limitations had run out before the law had been changed. This provided the key to unlocking a successful defense. Today, I have only a non-sex-crime misdemeanor on my record, I've spent only 50 days in jail, I didn't lose my employment, and after going through the treatment program, I no longer look at my past with dread and fear. Jan was absolutely instrumental in making all of these outcomes possible. I recommend him and his services highly.
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Posted by Kerry | April 11, 2016
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Referring Attorney
Jan is the consummate professional. He not only does a good job in court (trial and motions), but also is aware of resources and has excellent relationships with prosecutorial staff and attorneys. He keeps the client well informed of choices. He demonstrates a clear understanding of the law and its effect on the client. He has always kept me informed of the status of the case.
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Posted by William C | April 6, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thoughtful, considerate and direct
From the first moment of meeting Jan, I felt at ease in his presence. Jan is thoughtful, considerate and direct. My experience with Jan was that he looked at the challenges and opportunities of my case and helped develop an effective plan using legal knowledge, experience and common sense. Throughout the handling of my case, Jan helped me stay focused and calm. His services were affordable and the office staff was very professional. I would recommend Jan highly and if required to do so again, would engage him without hesitation.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.5 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • Ellis, Li & McKinstry, PLLC
  • 1987 - Present
  • Public Defender
  • City Of Kent
  • 1992 - 1994
  • Attorney
  • Attorney at Ogden Murphy Wallace
  • 1984 - 1986
  • Attorney
  • Attorney at Law Offices of Michael A. Frost
  • 1982 - 1984
View all work experience

Education

  • University of Idaho
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1980
  • University of Washington
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1977

Legal Cases

  • STATE v. SLIDER 38 Wn. App. 689 (1984)
  • Affirmed

Associations

  • Federal Bar Association (Western District of Washington chapter)
  • Admitted to Practice
  • 1984 - Present
  • Washington Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys
  • Member
  • N/A

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2018
  • BV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2015
  • SuperLawyer
  • Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2006

Publications

View all publications

Speaking Engagements

  • CLE
  • DUI CLE
  • 2014
  • McKinley Irvin CLE
  • How a Criminal Defense Lawyer Gets Involved with Family Law Issues
  • 2013
  • Weschler Symposium
  • How a Criminal Defense Lawyer Gets Involved with Family Law Issues
  • 2012
  • Legal Issues for Churches
  • Child Abuse Reporting
  • 2012
  • Church Presentation
  • Child Abuse Reporting with Lennon and Miller
  • 2011
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (20)
Given (20)
Endorse Jan
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 28
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. He is the go to guy in criminal defense and when I have questions in my own practice I call him. He works hard for his clients, his knowledge of the law is stellar and his integrity is surpassed by none. When I am not available for a case, I refer people to Jan."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 20
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Jan has been my “go to” criminal lawyer for years. Jan has helped many of my clients in extremely tough situations. I recommend him without reservation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have worked with Jan for many years both as an adversary (when I was a prosecutor) and now as a fellow criminal defense attorney. Jan is well-known and respected by both other attorneys and judges for his knowledge, experience, and professionalism. He is an asset to his clients as well as his colleagues. I would recommend Jan without reservation to anyone in need of outstanding legal representation on a criminal matter."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 05
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Jan is a knowledgeable and intelligent advocate for his clients. I have worked with him on a number of child abuse cases and have been astounded at the positive results he obtained."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Mar 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jan has proven to be a very valuable resource for clients/referrals who need strong, effective and thorough representation. I heartily endorse him."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 15
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse Jan Olson. He is a skilled and compassionate advocate with over 30 years of experience. When any of my clients or friends need a criminal defense attorney, I refer them, without hesitation, to Jan."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. He is an energetic and humane lawyer. He works hard on his cases and is respected in the legal community. You can't go wrong with Jan Olson as your lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jan Olson is an outstanding criminal defense lawyer. When I have a client with a criminal issue, Jan is always at the top of my list of attorneys I refer to. Each of those clients have reported back with high praise of his excellent representation, going beyond their expectation. Jan does not just wait for charges to be filed, but works with the detectives and prosecutors behind the scenes to get them dismissed or reduced even before filing. I highly recomend Jan without any reservation."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jan has been an accomplished and well respected criminal defense attorney for well over twenty years. He successfully combines zealous advocacy with artful negotiation skills to effectively represent his clients. I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jan is one of the most aggressive, effective, and well respected lawyers in the Seattle area. I first met Jan over fifteen years ago when I was a public defender in Wenatchee. He was the attorney for the opposing party. I was floored by his brilliant legal tactics and strategies. I knew that he was an attorney I could learn from. Since then I have seen Jan in action many times in Seattle. He is a very effective advocate for his cleints. He is smart and knows how to present a defense to obtain the best results. Jan is not afraid to take on very complex cases with high stakes. Over many years of practice, he has earned the the respect of Judges, prosecutors, other attorneys, and most importantly, his clients. If my family or friends ever need a high powered, very experienced defense attorney, Jan is the first person I would send them to."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Jan since I commenced my practice in 1981. He is a competent, highly skilled and ethical member of the Washington State Bar. His skill and knowledge in criminal cases is exceptional. Even prior to any charges being filed against a cleint, on occasions where it is possible, I have observed his ability to communicate effectively with invesitgating detectives and/or the prosecutor's office to minimize the impact of charges if possible. I refer my criminal clients to him on a regular basis and endorse him as a professional beyond reproach."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. For the past 20 years I have referred criminal cases to Jan with complete confidence. Jan has handled each matter with the utmost professionalism and expertise. I highly recommend him."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Mr. Olson for several years and consider Mr. Olson a mentor. I can confidently say that he is one of the most experienced, ethical and effective criminal defense attorneys in the Northwest. His clients should rest assured that Mr. Olson will achieve the best possible outcome in their matters."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I highly recommend Jan Olson. I am a Family Law attorney, and I often refer clients to Jan. Jan is always professional, knowledgeable and straight forward. I continue to be impressed by his intelligence and expertise."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have handled matters both against and with Mr. Olson. As a former prosecutor, I found him to be incredibly competent, ethical and tenacious. As a defense attorney, I have consulted with Mr. Olson on several matters due to his high level of expertise. Mr. Olson is highly repsected by the prosecution and the bench and for good reasons. He is extremely competent, very tenacious and ethical in his approach. I highly recommend his services to anyone."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have had the privilege of seeing Jan's work in court and brainstorming with him on cases and legal issues. Jan uses his intelligence, attention to detail, and creative thinking to get exceptional results for his clients. He approaches every client with compassion and works hard to protect them through a very difficult process. If I, or someone I loved, was accused of a serious crime, I would not hesitate to hire Jan."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I first meet Mr. Olson more than 20 years ago when he was a prosecuting attorney. I was very happy when he changed sides so I did not have to have him opposes me. Since then I have watched him many times in court and have sought his advise on strategy and the law on many occasions. He has always been very insightful, knowledgeable and professional in his actions. Jan is a extremely strong and effective advocate for his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jan is one of the best lawyers out there. He is smart, tough, ethical and hard working. He takes some of the hardest cases out there and finds a way to win. I know this from experience - I met Jan when he had to take over one of my cases - a case with a set of very challenging facts and personalities. Jan was able to take this case to trial and get a not guilty verdict. If you are looking for a lawyer with these characteristics, you should contact Jan."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 06
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Jan is a dedicated earnest defender of his clients and one of the hardest workers I know. He puts his clients' interests first and works hard to get the best result possible each time. He is an effective negotiator with prosecutors and a persuasive advocate in court."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I strongly endorse the legal abilities and work ethic of Jan Olson. He is a strong advocate for his clients. He thoroughly understands criminal defense and works effectively with the Prosecutor's office. He has years of jury trial experience. "
View more endorsements
Seattle Sex crime Lawyer Jan Phillip Olson
Jan Phillip Olson
Sex crime Attorney
Seattle, WA
Licensed for 42 years
Free Consultation