Licensed for 19 years

State WA

Acquired 2004

Status
Active No misconduct found

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

Tristen U. Key

Child custody Attorney at Everett, WA

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Key Law and Team, Top Notch!

I consulted with Tristen approximately 4 months ago to start the ball rolling to end my long term marriage and end the life of domestic violence. Tristen and her team have been very kind, patient, and caring throughout this entire process. I have never been through legal proceedings such as this, although I did start divorce proceedings over 15 years ago, but lacked the courage to follow through, for many reasons. This time was different as I am a different person now and my ex not longer has my child to hold as leverage. With the knowledge that I was very concerned for my safety and the safety of my son, Tristen helped me to understand the options I had, given my circumstances. And though our original plan started on one path, an unforeseen event threw me onto a different path of needing to obtain a DV protection order, which Tristen guided me through while I was in a very emotional state resulting from the event. Tristen and her team show'd genuine concern for me and my safety and stayed in contact with me till I was safe. From that point the Key Law Team has been nothing but professional and concise in every instance regardless of mode of communication, i.e. email, phone, face to face. Every time I walk into the office I feel a sense of calm with the environment they present, which is so helpful at such a stressful time. I will admit I have not always been the best "client" as these times can cause emotions to guide our actions and Tristen has had to "talk me off the ledge" many times. Unfortunately she has also had to clean up the mess I made when I did not listen to her guidance. I strongly recommend Tristen and her team to anyone in need. They will not let you down, they truly are the experts!!!

Professional, experienced and understanding

We hired Tristen as representation for my grandaughter's custody case and parenting plan. Tristen was eloquent and educated-proving her experience and confidence to be unwavering. She understood the emotional aspects of going through an ugly court trial and did everything she could to accommodate us in every way she was able. Tristen was not the first attorney we consulted, but she was the one we hired because of her experience as a social worker and familiarity with our type of situation. I hope to not be involved in another predicament such as ours, but given the extremely favorable outcome I would not hesitate to hire her again. So happy with the results and so grateful for her reassurance.

About Tristen

Learn Tristen’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Child custody

25%
Child support

25%
Divorce and separation

25%
Family

25%

Provides representation in all family law matters, including child custody and modifications, child support and modifications, divorce, legal separation, domestic violence protection order, restraining order, paternity, prenuptial agreements and relocation of children.
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19 years

EXPERIENCED, DILIGENT, EFFECTIVE AND CARING. DIVORCE, CHILD CUSTODY AND FAMILY LAW. CALL TODAY!

Tristen Key practices family law in Snohomish County. Tristen was well known throughout Washington State as a social worker where she dedicated 10 years of service with several local public agencies before attending law school. Upon graduation, Tristen chose to practice family law as an extension of her social work experience.

Tristen has a winning track record using her keen ability to anticipate the other side's case strategy to stay one step ahead. Her unique ability to be competitive yet reasonable and compassionate makes her a trusted attorney by clients and well respected by her colleagues and the bench. Tristen is known in the community for zealously and diligently advocating for her client's interests. She is never hesitant to take on complex and difficult cases and has many years of experience in the courtroom and with successful results.

Tristen's distinctive approach to clients is to establish a rapport of trust, confidence, and candor with clients at the earliest onset to create and accomplish a case strategy for the best possible outcome. Tristen strongly believes in fostering a relationship that allows clients to feel at ease in conveying their hopes, fears, and anxieties which can drive a case. She works diligently to keep her clients apprised of all developments in their case so the client may remain proactive throughout their litigation.

"I try to convey to all my clients that I can appreciate the difficulties that lie ahead for them during and after the litigation. I am not a detached lawyer but a lawyer who truly cares about the outcome of each and every aspect of their case. I strongly believe in coming up with solutions outside of the box to fit my client's individual case rather than using a cookie cutter approach to family law. At the end of the day, my clients are real people with real problems who have trusted me to take care of their family's legal needs."

Awards

Client's Choice

2015 2012 2011

Photos and videos

Contact Tristen

Key Law Offices, PLLC

(425) 287-5099 Office

1721 Hewitt Avenue

Suite 610

Everett, WA, 98201

keylawoffices.com/

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Reviews

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4.8 / 5.0

34 customer reviews

3 Star

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 Joni | July 12, 2018

Key Law and Team, Top Notch!

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Posted by Gary | April 11, 2018

Professional, experienced and understanding

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Posted by anonymous | November 8, 2021

Outstanding Compassionate Professional

From the first consultation session and throughout the entire legal process, Tristen Key eased my anxieties, provided ongoing and timely information and kept what was best for me at the center of all decisions. In talking with Tristen, it is quickly evident that she is smart, mastered the expertise in Family Law etc. specific to WA and prides herself in administering high quality service. The administrative/paralegal staff readily answered questions, quickly scheduled appointments and efficiently managed documents. I strongly recommend Key Law Offices to anyone seeking legal advice in the areas of Family Law, Divorce or Separation. You will be fully satisfied!!!

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Posted by Joy | November 4, 2021

I was lucky to have her!

Tristen helped me through a tough time with a unexpected separation with my ex in Jan 2020. She consulted with compassion, provided crucial information and education regarding the matter, offered multiple choices of approaches with pros and cons. She is very professional and efficient! I am lucky to have her on my side of the ring!

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Posted by Nicole | September 3, 2020

Exactly what I needed

Tristen helped me navigate my issue with a perfect balance of sensitive care and pragmatism to help me make the best choices for the situation. It was very tough to handle, but Tristen and Samantha both managed the emotions, time and communications required to get everything done. I would definitely return and will always refer my people to her office. I'm so grateful for the care I received. Thank you both.

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Posted by anonymous | March 24, 2020

Top Tier Legal Work

Putting Tristen and her team on my divorce case was the best decision I made for my future. I really could see the difference in preparedness and individual attention between my legal team and my ex’s. I honestly felt like her propelling arguments at the temporary hearing are what landed me primary custody with my child. In addition to that, I went from a position of thinking I’d have to live in poverty to having a settlement big enough to go to school and get my life back on track. I also understand how uncommon it is to work with a legal team that works so hard to keep their fees low for their clients. Tristen makes top tier legal work affordable for people like me.

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Posted by Bret | December 27, 2019

Professional and Knowledgeable

I hired Tristen to help with a legal separation. She was very knowledgeable and did everything possible that was in my best interest. Her communication throughout the process was excellent. Thanks to Tristen and Samantha, it was a painless process.

Posted by Lucia | November 30, 2019

Highly recommended

I am deeply appreciative of Tristen's representation in my divorce. I first met with her when I knew that I wanted to separate, but wanted to be sure that I considered everything so that it was done in a manner that was both safe and financially responsible. She helped guide me through the early steps of separation, all the way through drafting a parenting plan, negotiating a settlement and the final steps of my divorce. Our first meeting was about a year ago now, and looking back I'm certainly able to say that the relatively drama-free resolution of everything has been possible because she is capable, knowledgeable, and communicative. The nature of divorce itself can be stressful, but Tristen's approach is calming because of her straightforward manner and responsiveness. What it all has amounted to is a happier life for me and my kids.

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Posted by anonymous | September 9, 2019

Professional, Knowledgeable, and Compassionate

Meeting with Tristen was like meeting with old friends. I felt comfortable the moment I walked in. Samantha at the front desk was amazing and everything was communicated to me perfectly. She was also wonderful in helping watch my special needs son as I needed a last minute consultation with Tristen and didn't have child care. Tristen immediately recognized the ways in which I was being taken for a ride in the paperwork I showed her and gave me reassurance and sound counsel! If I ever need representation in Snohomish County, Tristen will be the first person I reach out to!!

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Posted by anonymous | July 18, 2018

Professional, smart, diligent and kind lawyer

I initially started with a one-hour consultation with Tristen. It was a very emotional moment for me but Tristen was smart, courteous, professional, and kind and she could answer all my questions and walk me through the process. I was comfortable talking to her and her knowledge gave me confidence to hire her as my lawyer. She always made sure I know what was happening, explained to me everything I need to know and made sure I get what is fair. I am very smart but this is something I could not figure out on my own especially with the emotional toll it has on me. Note that me and my ex are both working professionals on a different field. Tristen was very diligent and worked with me in person, on the phone and in email. During the hearing, you can tell which lawyer was the smarter one and has done her homework, it was my lawyer Tristen. She is extremely smart, very diligent, very thorough, and would “fight” for me. I was very impressed with her. She was well prepared, she knew what she expected was going to happen and relayed that information to me and that is what happened. She’s extremely knowledgeable, she knows the system and the process and she can point out what mistakes the other party did. She knew the court would deny my ex’s demands because they filed it incorrectly and that they were asking for more than what was fair. She’s very hardworking, makes sure we are on track, and gets what I asked for or corrects me and makes sure I get what I deserve. My case is not over yet but I’m confident that with Tristen as my lawyer, I’ll get what I want and what is fair.

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Posted by Lisa | July 16, 2018

Experienced, compassionate, knowledgeable a true partner

Tristen was hired to assist with my Grandson’s custody issue in February. We initially called and spoke with the paralegal, prior to our consultation. She was knowledgeable and professional setting up our rights to be able to deal with the situation on a temporary basis. It was a true Godsend allowing us to feel there were options for us. Walking in the office you immediately are welcomed with calm cool professionalism. Tristen took the time to speak with us and listen carefully prior to offering any solutions. As a mother herself, I could watch her eyes pop at all we had endured. I finally left feeling like I had someone in my Grandson’s corner who would do everything she could for him and that I wasn’t crazy! I had viable concerns and an avenue to ensure his security. When safety became an issue, thanks to Tristen’s documentation and preparation she was able to immediately file a Restraining Order. I shudder to think of where we would be without everything being aligned and ready to go. She is meticulous! Tristen has a way of listening and cutting through all the static and provide you with peace! I could not imagine attempting to go through this situation with anyone but Tristen and her team. Whether meeting with them in person, on the phone, answering questions via email, or appearing in court with her; she is always professional and prepared. Keeping us informed and helping us through all the emotional upheavals. This hasn’t ended yet, but I’m confident of a satisfying outcome with their support. I highly recommend this team, who I now consider part of my family.

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Posted by anonymous | October 8, 2017

Excellent attorney, great strategist

I hired Tristen after my ex-husband made decisions that ended the marriage. I wasn't clear on what I needed to do or how to go forward. She was kind and compassionate in dealing with me and helped me understand the various options that I could pursue. She provided excellent counsel and insight, so that I ended up with the best outcome of the options available. Her ability to read people helped us come up with a strategy that worked and protected my child, ensuring stability and consistency for him in an terribly difficult situation. If you need an outstanding family law practitioner who is not afraid to do what is needed in the best interest of your children, I highly recommend Tristen Key.

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Posted by Karen | October 5, 2017

Diligent and Fair

I have been working with Tristen to help navigate me through a complicated divorce. She is extremely professional, competent, fair and diligent in pursuing a responsible outcome. Tristen is always quick to answer questions and to explain the process. HIghly recommended!

Posted by Wendy | October 4, 2017

Excelled at anticipating my needs, was patient with difficult opposing counsel

Tristen assisted me in a complex divorce case involving founder's stock. She was able to answer anticipatory questions as we advanced through such a complex negotiation. She was extremely helpful, professional and provided sound advice. She was able to utilize sound practice, not emotional argument, in order to reach mutual agreement. I would recommend her for her calm, business-like approach.

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Posted by Mary | July 13, 2016

Professional, knowledgeable, understanding

Tristen Key has surpassed my expectations! She effectively and professionally strategized to achieve a very favorable divorce settlement for my brother, for whom I am POA. Tristen is an EXCELLENT attorney! I sincerely recommend Tristen's ethical and competent representation.

Posted by Susan | November 20, 2015

Tristen Exceptional and Tenacious Lawyer

Does your spouse expect to get it all in a divorce you didn’t want? Do you expect to lose because he, or she, has superior resources? Do things look hopeless? I found myself in a position where I was given Power of Attorney for an individual whose spouse decided that this was the perfect time to take her mate to the cleaners and filed for divorce. Tristen Key simply did not let that happen. She was our savior! Tristen was fair, but absolutely did not let anyone push us around. She obtained the results we wished for and, she was reasonable too. I now consider her a friend that I respect and admire and heartily recommend Tristen to help you with family law issues that you may have.

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Posted by Angie | October 26, 2015

Typical Combative Ex - Not Typical Representation

Tristen did a great job of working through support issues with an ex who is combative on his best days. Tristen's no-nonsense and down to earth approach was exactly what was needed to help sort through the emotion and drama created by what should have been a simple request, but somehow turned into an major issue. Even though I'll never make my ex a decent human being, I'll still trust Tristen and retain her again if I am ever in need of family law representation again. She doesn't let the games interfere with the goal - getting your child what they need.

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Posted by John | October 20, 2015

Successfully Acheived More Than I Ever Dreamed Possible

I was diagnosed with bipolar after an incident and was for the most part unable to participate in my wife's, a nurse, request for a divorce. Tristen worked with 2 of my sisters to accomplish the unbelievably favorable result. What is for most people going above and beyond is second nature to Tristen. What people say to me in conversation can have a profound effect. She was naturally cordial and complimentary.

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Posted by ART | October 20, 2015

Divorce

Tristen, I am so happy i went with Tristen, She did a great job of understanding who i was as a person and what was important to me. She made sure that was her priority. I am very great full for her services and would recommend her to anybody.

Posted by Lynda | October 20, 2015

Divorce & Separation

When I was seeking advice on my upcoming divorce I was referred to Tristen. I loved her honest, no nonsense approach and chose to retain her services immediately. She manages to balance empathy with directness. She openly listens and is great at communicating what to expect throughout the process. Divorce is a very emotional experience and Tristen manages to bring clarity and a sense of calm to the situation. I would absolutely recommend Tristen if you are in need of legal services and advice.

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AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Attorney
Key Law Offices, PLLC
2017 - Present

Equity Partner
Dethleffs Sparwasser Reich Dickerson & Key, PLLC
2008 - Present

Senior Associate
Stella L. Pitts & Associates, PLLC
2004 - 2008

Extern Clerk
Washington State Supreme Court, Justice Tom Chambers
2003 - 2003

Rule 9 Clerk
Multicounty Public Defender, Appellate Division
2003 - 2003

Research Assistant
Seattle University School of Law
2002 - 2002

Lead Domestic Violence Coordinator
City of Kent Attorney's Office
1999 - 2001

Legal Advocate
Snohomish County Center for Battered Women
1995 - 1999

View all work experience

Education

Seattle University School of Law
Juris Doctor
2004

Western Washingrton University
Bachelor of Arts
1994

Associations

Snohomish County Bar Association
Active Member
2011 - Present

Washington State Bar Association
Active Member
2004 - Present

King County Bar Association
Active Member
2004 - Present

Seattle Human Rights Commission
Commissoner
2000 - 2001

Washington Criminal Justice Training Commission
Trainer
2000 - 2001

Asian Women and Family Safety Center
Board of Directors
1998 - 2000

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Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Marquis Who's Who
Who's Who Legal
2018

10 Best
American Institute of Family Law Attorneys
2018

Top 10 Attorneys
National Academy Of Family Law Attorneys
2018

Top 10 Attorney
Attorney and Practice Magazine
2018

Five Star Investment Professionals
Seattle Magazine
2017

Distinguished Lawyer
Expert Network
2017

Five Star Investment Professionals
Seattle Magazine
2016

10 Best
American Institute of Family Law Attorneys
2015

Rising Star
Super Lawyers
2010

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Publications

Seattle University Law Review - Editorial Acknowledgment
(Un) Examined Assumptions and (Un) Intended Messages: Teaching Students to Recognize Bias Language in Legal Analysis and Language
2003

Speaking Engagements

Domestic Violence Training for Prosecutors, Law Enforcement and Advocates, Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Domestic Violence
2003

Domestic Violence Training for Prosecutors, Law Enforcement and Advocates, Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Domestic Violence
2002

Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission
Domestic Violence Crimes Investigations
2001

WA State Domestic Violence Judicial Conference
Domestic Violence
1999

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Attorney endorsements

Received (14)

Given (20)

Endorse Tristen

Kimberly Loges

Family Attorney | Mar 11
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Tristen is great to work with. She is professional, compassionate, thoughtful and easy to work with."

Janelle Mosher

Family Attorney | Apr 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Tristen is an incredibly knowledgeable attorney. She has provided effective legal advice for clients for many years. I would go to her immediately if I ever have a family law issue."

Lara Dethlefs

Family Attorney | Mar 09
Relationship: Co-worker

"I highly recommend Tristen to anyone needing legal representation in the family-law arena. Tristen's vast experience allows her to give practical and strategic advice. She is a fast-thinker and is excellent in court. She has compassion for her clients as she guides them through what can be a very difficult process."

Kokie Adams

Unknown Attorney | Mar 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Erica Santos

Family Attorney | Jul 18
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"One of the top qualities I like about Tristen is that she can be a zealous advocate for her client while still being a friendly and professional opposing counsel. I recently worked opposite Tristen on a child support and parenting plan modification matter. She was very knowledgeable and creative when the settlement process came to that tipping point where it appeared the process was breaking down. I highly recommend Tristen as a lawyer in any family law matter."

Jody Reich

Family Attorney | Jul 18
Relationship: Other

"Tristen is a fantastic lawyer. She never ceases to amaze me with her abiltiy to think creatively to find solutions to tough problems. As her business partner, I know her clients have the best representation available. With her prior experience as a social worker, she is uniquely qualified as an advocate in family law."

Janelle Eggert

Family Attorney | May 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

David Braswell

Family Attorney | May 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Susan Kennedy

Family Attorney | May 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Lani Sockle

Divorce and separation Attorney | May 04
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

John Ferrell

Family Attorney | Apr 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Elizabeth Wurdeman

Family Attorney | Mar 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Kelsey Brown

Family Attorney | Mar 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Karen Skantze

Family Attorney | Aug 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I am familiar with Tristen Key from not only being law school classmates of hers at Seattle University School of Law, but also by working on a case in which Ms. Key was the opposing counsel. I have found Ms. Key to be extremely knowledgeable, pragmatic, and straightforward. Her common sense approach to case issues is refreshing, and allows her to be a strong advocate for her clients in all settings: settlement negotiations and trial. The professionalism she exhibits in all her interactions with colleagues in this profession will undoubtedly serve Ms. Key well and will secure her the recognition she deserves. She has an adept understanding of the stresses clients face in divorce and custody actions and she maneuvers her clients successfully through all phases. She is highly ethical and a credit to the profession. I highly endorse this attorney."

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Kimberly Loges

Family

Janelle Mosher

Immigration