Susan Jayne Shulenberger

Susan Jayne Shulenberger

also known as Sue Shulenberger, Susan Schulenberger, Susan Shulenberger

4.7
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 43 years

Divorce and separation Lawyer at Seattle, WA
Practice Areas: Divorce & Separation, Family, Uncontested Divorce ... +5 more

901 Fifth Avenue, Suite 2800A, Seattle, WA

About Susan

Biography

Practice Areas

8

Practice Areas

Divorce and Separation 14%

I am trained and experienced in collaborative family law--divorces without going to court. I also practice litigation cases as well as cooperative litigation divorces

14%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Retainer

Always


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

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Licenses

Licensed in Washington for 43 years

State: Washington

Acquired: 1982

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Meridian Family Law

901 Fifth Avenue, Suite 2800A, Seattle, WA, 98164

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Susan Jayne Shulenberger's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.7 /5.0

19 Client Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (19) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.

Showing 1 - 5 of 19 reviews

Posted by anonymous | August 29, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes

She worked against me, not for me

Susan has a lot of experience, except that she doesn't go to court. That means one of your tools has already been removed from your toolbox because the other side knows that you have to settle and don't have the possibility of a trial to motivate their behavior. Susan seemed to be fighting me to prov...ide a settlement that would be beneficial to the other side vs fighting them to reach a settlement in my favor. She did not take the time to know important details of my case. After 9 months of getting nowhere with Susan representing me, I hired a different attorney who fought for me, not against me.

Susan Shulenberger

Replied last August 29, 2019

All of the attorneys in our firm make every effort to settle cases out of court. When that is not possible we have highly experienced litigation attorneys who go to trial and represent our clients. We understand the frustration that clients can experience with the negotiation, settlement and trial process. It is very challenging. We appreciate you expressing your frustration and we wish this had been a less stressful experience for you.

Posted by Holly | April 10, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Practical, Calm, Super-Experienced and SHARP

Susan Shulenberger was kind, patient, understanding, and professional though my process. She was a wise and knowledgeable guide through the Collaborative Divorce process and helped me decide whether that was the right approach for our family. She drew from her extensive experience to come up with ...creative solutions to issues as they arose. She was mindful of controlling costs and came up with efficient ways for us to work through our parenting plan and finances. She made time for me when I needed it and advised me of things I needed to be aware of. She was kind and sharp and made sure the outcome was child-centered and workable for everyone; with Susan I felt protected, supported, and like I had a strong advocate during what was an extremely difficult time. This may sound weird, but Susan made divorce meetings much more enjoyable, and made it feel like there was a light at the end of the tunnel.

Posted by Kelsey | February 03, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Supportive and thoughtful

I am beyond grateful for Susan. Through this whole process she was available, had open communication throughout every step of my divorce, helped educate me and was patient when I didn’t understand something, and was incredibly eptathetic and understanding towards me. I truly feel like she helped me a...chieve the best possible outcome and for that I am so thankful.

Posted by anonymous | January 31, 2019 | Hired Attorney

Tough, smart, available

I was so impressed by and grateful for Susan’s availability and responsiveness throughout my time working with her. She is incredibly smart, knowledgeable in her field and tough. Her counsel, support and coaching made all the difference and were absolutely invaluable. I’m so glad I had her in my cour...t.

Posted by anonymous | August 25, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Much more than an attorney - she was fantastic through the toughest event in my life

Susan and I met quite a while ago. And while that hints at the arduous process my divorce became, she was there, helping me understand, guiding me through the legal process, but also bringing experience to bear in relationships and breakups. Its a tough time regardless, particularly when the behavi...or of your former spouse is hard to interpret. Susan was there. Constant consideration not just of the divorce, but of future ongoing relationships, what it take to get this behind you, but not at the cost of your dignity, fatherhood, or an untenable financial situation. Susan is always thinking a few steps ahead. When nothing seems to make sense in an ambiguous and emotionally driven world, Susan provides clarity, reason, and calm. Oh and she is sharp as hell on settlements and getting a deal that works. Works for both parties, I should say. While my case ended up at trial and that was the last resort anyone wanted to pursue, I knew exactly what was going on, why trial was the solution, and have no regrets every step of the way. Things became more complex than anyone expected or wanted. But I knew why these steps were being taken, and felt comfort and pride in that, which is weird to say given the circumstance. We had a great rapport from the beginning, she was a friend and confidant beyond my attorney. She showed passion, was conscientious of what I was going through, and patient. We ended up in court because we wanted to, given the circumstances dealt. I regret none of it, even if I never anticipated that. The outcome was better than I hoped for. I received more than I asked, and I could not be happier. We went through the process. Susan did things the right way. I never felt ill prepared nor did I worry that what actions opposing counsel might pursue, because we were organized and thoughtful every step. Susan was and is tremendous. She's my trusted legal advisor, but she's also a friend who believed in me. Words can't describe what Susan did for me, my kids, and my family. I'd recommend her to anyone.

See All Client Reviews

Susan Jayne Shulenberger's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Susan
Stacy Dyan Heard headshot
Stacy Heard

Family lawyer | Aug 11

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Susan has exceptional knowledge in family law, which is well-balanced with her pragmatic approach to handling cases. She is reasonable, yet advocates strongly for her clients. I recommend her without reservation, and refer clients to her if I am unable to take a case."

David Brendan Starks headshot
David Starks

Family lawyer | Feb 01

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer. Susan is an unbelievably skilled attorney. Her instincts are unmatched. She provides the highest caliber legal services to her clients and wins excellent results."

A. Kyle Johnson headshot
A. Johnson

Divorce and separation lawyer | Jan 10

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Susan brings everything that is needed to a family law matter, brains, experience, knowledge and negotiation skills. I have worked with her as a mediator and believe she is an outstanding advocate as well as a warm and compassionate person."

Megan O'Brien Stanley headshot
Megan O'Brien Stanley

Family lawyer | Dec 19

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Susan's experience and skills are superb. She works extremely well with opposing counsel to reach sound agreements that benefit her clients."

Krista Ellen Stipe headshot
Krista Stipe

Family lawyer | Aug 04

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Susan is incredibly smart and extremely knowledgeable about the law. I am always impressed with her solutions to legal problems and understanding of the legal procedure and the substantive law. She also is incredibly dedicated to her clients. I strongly endorse Susan as a lawyer."

Boaz Weintraub headshot
Boaz Weintraub

Family lawyer | Sep 07

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jessica Terese Moore headshot
Jessica Moore

Family lawyer | Apr 03

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jamie R Walker headshot
Jamie Walker

Family lawyer | Feb 13

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer."

Christina L. Smith headshot
Christina Smith

Family lawyer | Feb 05

Relationship: Co-worker

"Susan brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to her family law cases. She is thoughtful, thorough and talented. She's incredibly skilled with complex financial issues and she will tirelessly pursue her clients' best interests. I highly recommend Susan for any family law matter."

Jonathan Blake Hilty headshot
Jonathan Hilty

Divorce and separation lawyer | Feb 02

Relationship: Co-worker

"Susan is an effective advocate for her clients. Her experience and legal acumen combine to achieve results that consistently meet and exceed her client's expectations. She is an asset to the legal community, and I am honored to work with her. I endorse this lawyer."

Lindsay Jean Noel headshot
Lindsay Noel

Unknown lawyer | Feb 01

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer."

Collin C McKean headshot
Collin McKean

Family lawyer | Feb 01

Relationship: Co-worker

"Susan is an exceptional attorney with tremendous family law experience. I endorse this lawyer."

Lindsay Diane Camandona headshot
Lindsay Camandona

Unknown lawyer | Feb 01

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jill Mullins headshot
Jill Mullins

Divorce and separation lawyer | Feb 01

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer."

Laura Anne Carlsen headshot
Laura Carlsen

Family lawyer | Feb 01

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer."

View All Endorsements
Jonathan Blake Hilty headshot
Jonathan Hilty

Divorce and separation lawyer

Boyd F. Buckingham JR headshot
Boyd Buckingham

Family lawyer

Carol Bailey headshot
Carol Bailey

Family lawyer

Jessica Terese Moore headshot
Jessica Moore

Family lawyer

Brien Galbraith headshot
Brien Galbraith

Family lawyer

Sands McKinley headshot
Sands McKinley

Family lawyer

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Sherri Anderson

Family lawyer

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Judy Massong

Medical malpractice lawyer

Ted D. Billbe headshot
Ted Billbe

Divorce and separation lawyer

Brenda Louise Bannon headshot
Brenda Bannon

Government lawyer

Jamie R Walker headshot
Jamie Walker

Divorce and separation lawyer

Collin C McKean headshot
Collin McKean

Divorce and separation lawyer

Amanda Hoke DuBois headshot
Amanda DuBois

Family lawyer

Christina L. Smith headshot
Christina Smith

Divorce and separation lawyer

Sims G Weymuller headshot
Sims Weymuller

Medical malpractice lawyer

Laura Anne Carlsen headshot
Laura Carlsen

Divorce and separation lawyer

Stacy Dyan Heard headshot
Stacy Heard

Family lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2015

Washington State Super Lawyers List 2015-19, SuperLawyers

2013

AV Preeminent Peer Review Rated 2013-2019, Martindale-Hubbell

N/A

Client Champion Award, Martindale-Hubbell

N/A

AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

Work Experience

2014 - Present

Of Counsel, Integrative Family Law

1900 - Present

Of Counsel, Meridian Family Law

2011 - 2013

Of Counsel, McKinley Irvin

2005 - 2011

Principal, Susan J Shulenberger Family Law PLLC

2003 - 2005

Partner, Wechsler Becker LLP

2000 - 2003

Attorney, Preston Gates Ellis LLP

1998 - 1999

Associate, Gordon Wilcox PC

1991 - 1992

Disciplinary Counsel, Washington Bar Association

1986 - 1989

Associate, Cable, Langenbach, Kinerk & Bauer, LLP

1982 - 1986

Associate, Davis Wright Tremaine

Associations

2019 - Present

King County Bar Association, Collaborative Law Section

Secretary

2019 - Present

Washington State Bar Association

Ethical Practice Monitor

2014 - Present

Washington State Bar Association, Adjunct Investigative Counsel Panel

Adjunct Disciplinary Counsel

2014 - Present

King County Collaborative Law

Member

2014 - Present

International Academy of Collaborative Professionals

Member

2014 - Present

Washington Collaborative Law

Member

1982 - Present

Washington State Bar Association

Member

King County Bar Association, Family Law Section

Member

2013 - 2014

Washington State Bar Association, Committee on Professional Ethics

Member

2008 - 2012

Washington State Bar Association, Lawyers' Fund for Client Protection Committee

Chair

2007 - 2010

Washington State Bar Association, Rules of Professional Conduct Committee

Committee Member

2004 - 2008

Washington State Bar Association, Character and Fitness Board

Chair

2003 - 2005

Washington State Bar Association, Professionalism Committee

Member

1998 - 2002

Washington State Bar Association Judicial Conduct Committee

Member

Education

1982

Seattle University School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1979

University of Washington -Seattle

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2014

The Civility Promise: The Foundations of Civility In the Legal Profession Challenges and Strategies for fostering civility in our profession

2011

Divorce Litigation: From Start to Finish

Ethics

2010

Current Events for Family Lawyers: Legislative and Case Law Update

Dissolution Procedure Updates

2009

Family Law Ethics: Avoiding the Web of Ethical Pitfalls

Moral Turpitude and Offensive Personalities

2009

Family Law Ethics: Avoiding the Web of Ethical Pitfalls

Conflicts of Interests

Publications

2011

Washington Family Law Desk Book 2011 Cumulative Supplement Use of Professionals in Family Law Litigation

Languages

English

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