Skip to main content

Veronica A. Freitas

  Save
Avvo Rating10
  • Seattle, WA
  • Licensed for 30 years
Veronica A. Freitas
Veronica A. Freitas
AboutContactReviewsCost

About Veronica

Experienced, compassionate family law / divorce attorney. Call (206) 745-3987 for help

My practice focuses on family law  and  divorce.  I have  an LLM in taxation which is very useful when assessing the property and financial aspects of cases and when drafting settlement documents.  I also have a background in criminal law. I spent several years working as a public defender during which time I gained invaluable court room experience trying high profile criminal cases.  My criminal and estate planning background compliment and provide depth to my family law practice.  My experience, combined with my knowledge of family law, lends me a unique perspective when advising clients.

My criminal background is advantageous in many family law matters, particularly those where criminal allegations are pending, or domestic violence is alleged and protection orders are being sought. 

My philosophy is to negotiate where possible, but not to waste my client’s time and money trying to reach agreement when none is forthcoming.  I am not anxious to litigate over every issue, but I am very qualified and competent in those instances where a court appearance or trial is necessary.

 

Practice areas

Divorce and separationFamily
  1. Family: 50%

    Modification of parenting plans and child support orders, relocation actions.

  2. Divorce and separation: 50%

    Divorce, child custody, Domestic Violence Protection Orders and Child Support.

Languages spoken

English

Client's Choice 2014
Client's Choice 2013
Client's Choice 2012

Contact

544 29th Avenue
address map

V. Freitas Law, PLLC

544 29th Avenue
Seattle, WA, 98122

Office (206) 328-7362
Fax (206) 323-0404

Website

http://www.vfreitaslaw.com

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
WAActive199004/29/2020
ORResigned199005/05/2020
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers9
Legal guides0
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
Client's Choice AwardAVVO2014
Client's Choice AwardAvvo2013
Client's Choice AwardAvvo2012
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
OwnerV. Freitas Law, PLLC2009 - Present
Public DefenderSociety Of Counsel Representing Accused Persons1999 - 2009
AssociateLane Powell Spears Lubersky1998 - 1999
Public DefenderAssociated Counsel for the Accused1990 - 1998
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
King County Bar Association, Family Law SectionMember2009 - Present
United States Tax CourtMember2009 - Present
United States District Court for the Western District of WashingtonMember2009 - Present
Washington Women Lawyers (King County chapter)Member2007 - Present
Society Of Counsel Representing Accused PersonsExecutive Committee2000 - Present
Washington State Bar Association, Family Law SectionMember1990 - Present
QLaw- GLBT Bar Association of Washington, Judicial Evaluation CommitteeExecutive Committee2013 - 2014
QLaw- GLBT Bar Association of Washington, Judicial Evaluation CommitteeExecutive Committee2008 - 2013
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
University of Washington School of LawLL.M - Master of Laws - Taxation1998
Lewis & Clark Northwestern Law SchoolJD - Juris Doctor1989
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
Trial Advocacy for Public DefendersInstructor2013
Handling Your First DivorceEthical Considerations2013
Family Law Speaker SeriesWhen Family Law and Criminal Law Issues Coincide2012
Society of Counsel TrainingInterviewing State's Witnesses: The law and practice.2007

Reviews

(57)
5 Star
86%
4 Star
2%
3 Star
2%
2 Star
2%
1 Star
9%
Review Veronica Freitas

Attorney and her Team

Posted by

Calling and emailing other attorneys to only hear sorry I don't have enough time to take your case. (Sound familiar?). Quick note I only had 2 weeks before my first case and Veronica was the only attorney that was able to squeeze me in. Well I was fortunate enough to have two attorneys in my search that mentioned Veroinca Freitas!!! Let me tell you that making that call to Veronica was the best thing I have done for my child. Compasionate, Caring, Thoughtful and most of all Understanding. Is she aggressive? YES! Does she put her clients first? YES! Does she get results? Most Definitely YES! But I think it is also very important to mention that Veronica does not do it alone. Veronica has an awesome team that backs her up and are very involved with everything that goes on in your case. "The Team" as I call them are all highly motivated super heros that go above and beyond. Veronica can only come up with a solid arguments for your case with the information you give her and her team exploits all avenues by asking the right questions and finding the right material to build the arguments for your case. Is it frustrating at times? YES! but let me be the first to assure you that it is all worth it. My frustration is not from Veronica and her team, my frustration is from apposing counsel asking for silly and questionable material. Veronica and her team are there to walk you through the legal mess. Believe me I thought I was going to be able to defend myself. NO FREAKING WAY! without Veronica and her team to help guide me through the legal maze, I would have lost everything. I would have been feeling defeated and I would have lost visitation rights to my child. But that did not happen and I am greatful for Veronica and her team. They all continue to impress me and have been nothing short of AWESOME!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

A Father Every Day - Thanks to Veronica

Posted by

I must have done something good to have been blessed with Veronica and her team. They are a wonderful team and, against tough odds, we won the custody case and I can continue to be a father, and the primary parent, to my kids. Veronica is brilliant, compassionate, professional, efficient, and direct. Also, she is a sight to see in the courtroom. If you have the unfortunate experience of going to trial, you’ll be extremely happy that Veronica is on your side and not the opposing counsel. If you can avoid going to court, Veronica will not allow you to get a raw deal. In addition to Veronica, her whole team is kind, thoughtful, engaged, and knows me. They are responsive, calm, warm, and tough. It has been a joy for me to have their support through this most difficult experience of my life. I learned so much from both Veronica and Amy and I’ve come out a better person for the experience.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Thankful for Veronica and her team. Amazing!

Posted by

Over three years ago, I was blessed to retain Veronica as my family law attorney. She and her amazing staff have been invaluable walking alongside me during a challenging situation. I was blind sided by ex-husband's decision to leave our marriage of 17+ years. He forced me to sign an agreement that demanded my kids and I to move across the county, limited my cusody and provided no financial support. From the moment of my consultaion with Veronica, she had an accurate read on my situation and advised me on what to expect from the court system and my ex-husband. Her recommendations were not what I wanted to hear at the time, but her presentation was compassionate and professional. Veronica helped me to take control of my situation. My case was complicated by my ex-husband's unusual behavior, abusive use of conflict and consistent disregard to follow court orders. In the past 36 months, Veronica has appeared in family court > 30 times on my behalf. She is articulate, prepared and effective. I am always grateful for her calm and professional manner as well as her ability to advoacte on behalf on my children and me. She has walked me through the steps of getting bench warrants issued, court orders copied, protection orders issued and many other legal processes that are foreign to me. On numerous occasions, other parties in the courtroom have asked me for my attorny's contact information as they are impressed with her abilities and interested in hiring such a well spoken, calm and effective attorney. Veronica and her staff respond quickly and thouroughly to emails. I had several frightening situations where my children were not able to be located while in their dad's custody or domestic violence situtiaons. Veronica repsonded to me after hours, on weekends and even while away on vacation so that she could advise me on how to handle the situation. This practice is small but it is an advantage as Veronica is intimately involved in my case and her lead paralegal, Amy, is the one person working wtih me for all motions and paperwork. Amy often remembers important details that I have forgotten during such a stressful time. Both Veronica and Amy write well. After reading so many declarations from my ex-husband's multiple councils, I appreciate the consise, professional, truthful and well written declarations that are produced on my behalf. Veronica and Amy are always senstive to my children. When calling they make sure I am able to speak freely without little ears hearing uncomfortable conversations. I was able to observe Veronica work well and cooperate with a variety of opposing councils as my ex husband had >19 attorneys (family law and criminal) represent him during the past 3 years. Veronica worked with my ex husband during many of his pro se stints, as well. She was patient and despite his challenging behaviors, kept my kids and me as her priority. Billing is well documented and fair. I have consistently felt that she has under billed me for emails/ conversations. Veronica is a very stong advocate who is well respected, knowledgable, hard working, compassionalte and committed to her clients. Her support staff is personable, kind, professional and eager to help. Sadly, I have endured a long divorce process, however; Veroncia has done a wonderful job advocating for my kids and me. I recommend her with my whole heart.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Highly Recommend Veronica Freitas and Staff

Posted by

I hired Veronica Freitas to represent me after my ex objected to the relocation of our children. Veronica and her staff were everything I wanted when dealing with this stressful situation: responsive, knowledgeable, understanding, and efficient. She explained the process and the possible outcomes, prepared key documents in a timely manner, and kept me informed throughout the process. With her expertise and guidance, I avoided a costly trial and was able to relocate my children. I wish I would have known of her sooner so I could have hired her as my divorce lawyer! I highly recommend Veronica and her staff.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Responsive and knowledgeable

Posted by

Veronica helped me through a very rough and complicated divorce. Due to the difficult nature of my divorce, Veronica stayed in constant contact with me throughout the divorce and always enumerated multiple options throughout the process. She helped me get temporary orders in place to negate previously bad judgments on my part regarding the divorce as well as allow me to see my child as my ex was preventing me from visits. She managed to avoid a trial which I was certain would happen given her ex's previous actions. I cannot recommend her enough as I would not be in the state I am now without her. I am now having amazing visits with my child again and all is well.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Above and beyond

Posted by

Veronica went above and beyond what I expected out of an attorney. She was smart and aggressive when it came to fighting my messy child custody case. She always made me feel comfortable and informed of my options. Most importantly I felt confident she was going to fight for my ideal outcome which she did and now my case is settled. I also feel like she didn't charge an arm and a leg for her services which was an added bonus. I would 100% use her services in the future.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

very difficult custody case

Posted by

I had great communication and advice in what was a very difficult custody case. My wife had a long CPS history and drug abuse history. She initially got primary custody of my children by filing a false request for order of protection. I was ordered to do a 1 year domestic violence class. I am a black male and my wife was hispanic. My chances of getting primary custody seemed grim. Veronica came highly recommended to me from another attorney. She not only got me primary custody of my children, but got a 10 year no contact order with my former wife and wife's family. The case involved a kidnapping and Veronica gave me excellent advice to hire a Colorado attorney where my wife took the children. This was after Veronica figured out that the State of Washington Child Find Detective refused to help my case. Veronica performed her services over a 1 1/2 period until trial. Her fees were reasonable and I was never over charged. I cannot thank her and her staff enough. I am now primary custodial parent of my two 7 and 8 year old sons. I would recommend her to anyone. Kevin Fleming
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

The best lawyer I've ever had

Posted by

Veronica has the uncanny ability to be as gentle as a lamb to clients...truly empathizing with them and understanding what they have been through... to being a total bulldog in the courtroom. I am still in awe at what I observed of her, many months after my trial. She has such a personable way about her. She makes you feel like you could be her best friend in real life. Calming, reassuring and also humorous. If your case involves a trial, know that Veronica will be there to defend you like no one else. My particular case was filled with extreme conflict, and I went into the first day of trial feeling fearful and even tearful. By the second day of trial, after seeing Veronica work her magic, I was relieved, calm, and for the first time in a long time, felt truly defended. I could not have asked for a better lawyer to defend me. I could not have asked for a better outcome for my case, and I owe it all to Veronica for being so wonderful through it all. I would highly recommend her as a lawyer to anyone. She is both extremely personable and also very professional. A rare combination for a lawyer indeed.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Absolutely the best attorney!

Posted by

Finding Veronica was the "sign" from above; hiring Veronica, was one of the best decisions I have made in my life. Veronica knows the family law inside and out, and she's the best attorney you'll find to truly represent you and fight for your best interest! I was in a very difficult situation. My ex-husband coerced me into a bad deal, giving promises that he never kept. I was facing eviction with my little daughter and had no way of supporting myself and her while being a full-time student. Veronica, and her team, stood not only by me, she fought for my case like it was her own. Veronica was able to get the old orders vacated and, after months of fight and all sorts of things pulled by my ex, get myself and my daughter fair orders in place. The case was settled in mediation and everyone felt a winner! Veronica also is very efficient and cuts the BS, which saved a lot of $$$ for me. I have tremendous respect for Veronica and admire her work! I'm forever grateful! Thank you Veronica!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Honest and Professional Lawyer

Posted by

Veronica is a great lawyer.I’m so glad i found her and she is the who I had would have trusted to fight my case.She is fierce on one hand and on the other hand is great listener and works to make sure that the her clients can confide in her. Not long back ago, while I was in a custody battle and divorce process, my ex found that the best way to find all the cases would be accusing me of abusing my son. As is common practice in WA, the court filed a restriction order against me and the police showed up at my work place to take my son away. Needless to say that few days later I lost my custody case, I was forced to pay not only an abusive child support amount but also retroactive in more than a year. Furthermore, I was unable to see my son and forced to go through a painful process. After trying few Lawyers, I finally found Veronica Freitas after seeing all the great reviews I read about her. She from the very beginning was my confidante and a friend, she took my case and immediately requested an audience to review my case with the Judge, at that moment for me was just another hearing, after almost 2 years in Court, without been able to see and hug my son but, Veronica did the impossible. In her first hearing, she not only established that the whole thing was fabricated but also proved that I was a good father to my son. Veronica proved in a single session that all the accusations against me were created with absolutely no basis. She fought to ensure that the restriction Order against me was removed. I was also allowed to see my son again and my ex was forced to facilitate the reunification process between my son and I. I totally recommend Veronica to anybody who needs a honest and professional Lawyer and not just someone who files papers. She is always well prepared and does all necessary researches before a case. Veronica fights tooth and nail to ensure that her clients get justice
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
See all reviews

Attorney endorsements

(17)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Kim Schnuelle, Divorce and separation Attorney on Jun 5, 2010
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

Veronica is one of the smartest and most effective attorneys I have ever faced in my 17+ years of practice. She is focused, effecient and always does a stellar job for her clients. I routinely refer people to her and, if I needed an attorney, she is the first person I'd go to.

Jill Malat, Juvenile law Attorney on Oct 12, 2009
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer's work. Veronica is a brilliant lawyer. If I ever needed to hire an attorney to represent me personally she would be the one. She is hard working, knowledgeable and very zealous.

Natalie De Maar, Divorce and separation Attorney on Nov 22, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Veronica is a tough and knowledgeable advocate for her clients.

Nicole Chafetz, Divorce and separation Attorney on Jun 10, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Veronica is a FIGHTER. I have received some of her bruises and know her to be a fierce advocate in the courtroom. However, in the hallway, she is kinda and giving of her time, willing to consult with upstarts. I was one of the upstarts that she shared wisdom with and I truly appreciate it. If one of my children needed a family law attorney, she would be on my short list.

Lindsay Camandona, Family Attorney on May 21, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Jeffrey Possinger, Business Attorney on Sep 19, 2014
Relationship: Worked together on matter

“Veronica has earned her reputation as an excellent attorney; as someone who brings a high level of professionalism and skill in representing her clients. She is well respected in the legal community.”

Kimberly McKeag, Divorce and separation Attorney on Aug 9, 2013
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

Veronica is a super star. Her courtroom presence is outstanding and she is smart as a whip. Veronica sees the big picture and gets to the heart of a matter quickly. This inevitably must save her clients both time and money. I would highly recommend her to anyone seeking an attorney for a family law matter.

John Hicks, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 27, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. I knew Veronica as a first rate defense lawyer when she was with a public defender agency. I know of few other lawyers with her combination of knowledge, procedural smarts, and tenacity. While I wish she was still focusing on only criminal, she is the family law bar's gain. Highly recommended.

Liza Burke, Domestic violence Attorney on Sep 8, 2011
Relationship: Worked together on matter

Years ago, I worked together with Veronica Freitas on serious criminal defense cases. She is extremely sharp and 100% dedicated to the protection of her client's interests. I have no hesitation in endorsing her as a capable counselor and advocate for clients in difficult legal matters. She makes a serious commitment to providing high quality representation.

Damian Mendez, Personal injury Attorney on Aug 3, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Veronica is an excellent lawyer with many years of experience. Her trial experience is vast and she has represented clients in many high profile cases. She is not afraid to take a case to trial when necessary. I highly recommend her.

Aimee Sutton, Child abuse Attorney on Jun 6, 2011
Relationship: Worked together on matter

I endorse Veronica because she is extremely intelligent, knows the law, is always prepared and is a great advocate for her clients.

Robert Beattey

Veronica is a passionate, broadly experienced advocate for her clients. Her style is straightforward and no nonsense. I recommend her to anyone facing a family law issue.

James Talbot, Contracts and agreements Attorney on May 5, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Veronica is an exceptional lawyer and strong advocate for her clients. I have met her skilled staff and find them to share her drive to serve the family law client. I know her to have extensive courtroom experience. I would not hesitate to recommend her to a client in need of dissolution or child support assistance.

Yvonne Curtis, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 6, 2011
Relationship: Worked together on matter

Veronica is a strong advocate for her clients. She has no fear of trial and has tremendous litigation experience yet she also respects the importance of negotiation and her client's best interests. Her past criminal defense work provides her with a strong foundation to litigate and negotiate in the family law arena.

Jeffrey Goldman, Immigration Attorney on Feb 11, 2011
Relationship: Worked for lawyer

I endorse this lawyer. Veronica is a bright and aggressive attorney with years of experience in family and criminal law.

Mariko Mulligan, Violent crime Attorney on Feb 6, 2011
Relationship: Worked together on matter

I endorse this lawyer. Veronica is smart, experienced and a fearless advocate for her clients.

Lisa Donaldson, Speeding and traffic ticket Attorney on Jan 11, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I am endorsing Veronica Freitas because she is an exceptional lawyer and has the skills I would look for if I were seeking a family law attorney. She is well respected in the legal community. She has strong litigation skills but is an able and effective negotiator and she works tirelessly for her clients.

Kim Schnuelle, Divorce and separation Attorney on Jun 5, 2010
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

Veronica is one of the smartest and most effective attorneys I have ever faced in my 17+ years of practice. She is focused, effecient and always does a stellar job for her clients. I routinely refer people to her and, if I needed an attorney, she is the first person I'd go to.

Jill Malat, Juvenile law Attorney on Oct 12, 2009
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer's work. Veronica is a brilliant lawyer. If I ever needed to hire an attorney to represent me personally she would be the one. She is hard working, knowledgeable and very zealous.

Cost

RATES
  • Hourly Rates$275-$350/hour
    PAYMENT METHODS

    Cash, Check, Credit Card