Martha A Mclaughlin

Martha A Mclaughlin

5.0
Rating: 9.8

Licensed for 17 years

DUI and DWI Lawyer at Lakewood, WA
Practice Areas: DUI & DWI, Criminal Defense, Speeding & Traffic Ticket

5611 76th Street W, Lakewood, WA

About Martha

Biography

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 60 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

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Licenses

Licensed in Washington for 17 years

State: Washington

Acquired: 2008

Active

No misconduct found

Location

The law Offices of Barbara Bowden

5611 76th Street W, Lakewood, WA, 98499

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Martha A Mclaughlin's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

13 Client Reviews

5 star (13)
4 star (0)
3 star (0)
2 star (0)
1 star (0)

Posted by anonymous | July 7, 2022 | Consulted Attorney

This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.

Potential Client

Martha was very generous with her time to go over the law for firearm restoration. Provided more information than any previous attorney I had spoken with. I would highly recommend her for any of your legal needs.

Posted by Jesse | January 20, 2017 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

One of a kind

Martha took a vested interested in both my cases, she developed a relationship with me as a person not just a client. She answered all my questions, steered me in the right direction and never left my side. This whole process disrupted my entire families lives and she knew that, she was more than jus...t council, i had her support and her assistance through every step of this process. Today our family is pushing forward stronger than ever and i could not have done it without her. Although i must say i was responsable for my part, she can only assist the willing. If you need to get through a case and come out the otherside and are willing to do the work Martha is your go to attorney. Forever greatful!

Posted by Conan | October 20, 2016 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Awesome

All I can say is wow. She is a spectacular Lawyer with and amazing personality. She took on two very difficult cases and shined all the way through it. I am so glad that I used her for my cases.

Posted by Kathleen D. | October 15, 2016 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Martha A. McLaughlin

I have never had to use a lawyer before, and when I ran into a hard time last year, I found an advertisement for Martha Mc Laughlin of Durflinger Oliver & Associates, and upon my first meeting with Ms. McLaughlin, her firm handshake and warm persona made me feel immediately like she had what it... took to help me in my dilemma. Not only did she work with me financially by allowing me to have a payment arrangement that suited my then current finances; but she also worked very detailed and hard to fight for the best results possible... Which is exactly what I got! Thank you Martha Mc Laughlin for making what could have been a really expensive and drawn out process into a fair and manageable lesson learned. If you're looking for an amazing attorney I would highly recommend Martha McLaughlin, she has got what it takes!

Posted by Amy | February 20, 2015

Amazing

Words don't even come close to being able to describe how wonderful Martha is and what a really great job she does. I was a complete mess and extremely clueless after my ordeal. Martha totally took me under her wing and made me feel like I really was going to get through this. She "had my back" th...e entire time. She made sure I understood what I was being charged with and made sure I agreed entirely. She worked very diligently and efficiently to make sure I was being treated fairly. She was early for court so I knew I was not going in alone. During court everyone (judge, other lawyers/prosecutors, court clerk, etc) knew her and you could tell really enjoyed her company. Her professionalism was stellar and calmed my nerves just having her by my side. I didn't even have to say anything really except my name! She also made me feel like I wasn't a bad person, something bad just happened to me and she was going to make sure I came out the same person I came in. Plus she even got my charge dropped down which is huge. I have already recommended her to someone else and will continue to do so. I can honestly say I could not have gotten a better situation or outcome. I am so grateful and thankful for Martha's hard work and dedication to her field and clients. Thank you so much Martha!

See All Client Reviews

Martha A Mclaughlin's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Martha
Nichole Danelle Fisher headshot
Nichole Fisher

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Martha is an excellent attorney who truly has her clients best interests in mind throughout every stage of her representation. She is always prepared in court and well respected by her peers."

Jeremy Demetrius Macrigeanis headshot
Jeremy Macrigeanis

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have litigated against Martha while she was at the prosecutor's office, and have also seen her in action and with clients in private practice. I fully endorse her legal skills, and her compassion for and dedication to her clients."

Anna K. Woods headshot
Anna Woods

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Not only is very adept at negotiating and handling criminal cases, she is kind and compassionate."

Antonio Garguile headshot
Antonio Garguile

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Martha is an outstanding attorney who fights hard for his clients. I endorse this lawyer!"

Barbara Ann Bowden headshot
Barbara Bowden

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 27

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Martha is a brilliant attorney. Not only is she well versed in her field, she is one of the hardest working and most conscientious attonreys I know! If you are looking for an attoney to handle a criminal matter, she is the best."

Ross Dean Brittain headshot
Ross Brittain

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 26

Relationship: Co-worker

"Martha is a truly remarkable attorney and person. I've had the unique pleasure of knowing Martha since I was a Rule 9 while still in law school. She took the time and effort to show me the ropes. Since that time, Martha moved on to the area of private practice. However, I was delighted to learn that she was the same knowledgeable and helpful person she's always been. Martha works tirelessly for her clients and she never gives up her zeal and advocacy. Countless clients owe many thanks to Martha. I do not say this often, but of all the attorneys I've had the pleasure working with, I think Martha displays the most genuine concern for her clients' well beings. She takes the time to get to know each and every client, find out what's going on in their lives, and what sort of resolution works the best for their given situation. Martha is also a revelation when it comes to the intricacies of the Department of Licensing. Anyone in need of help should contact Martha McLaughlin!"

Martin J.H. Duenhoelter headshot
Martin Duenhoelter

Unknown lawyer | Jan 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Martha is one of the hardest working attorneys I know. She is friendly, personable and knowledgeable. She unfailingly helps out when a fellow attorney is in a bind!"

Michael E Harbeson headshot
Michael Harbeson

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 08

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Martha is a well respected trial attorney in the community by all her peers. She is a highly skilled criminal defense trial attorney and has a great work ethic. What impresses me the most about Martha is her demeanor in court and positive attitude with her clients. I would recommend anyone needing help with any type of criminal case to Martha."

James Edmund Oliver JR headshot
James Oliver

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have had the opportunity to witness firsthand this lawyer's exceptional work ethic and legal acumen. She cares deeply about her clients and diligently applies the her legal knowledge to get the best results in each of her cases. I cannot recommend her highly enough."

LadyClaire Marion Estillore Kintanar headshot
LadyClaire Kintanar

Criminal defense lawyer | May 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Mclaughlin is a great attorney who works hard to achieve the best possible results for her clients."

Daniel Joseph Gerl headshot
Daniel Gerl

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I worked with Martha briefly as prosecutors a few years back and have observed her recently as a defense attorney. I'm impressed with how she's worked with her clients; they always appear to have their full trust in her. And with good reason - Martha is a skilled and compassionate advocate for her clients, and they are fortunate to have her representing them. I gladly endorse Martha without reservation."

Cory Jay Wood headshot
Cory Wood

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I certainly endorse this lawyer. Ms. McLaughlin has the skills and experience to provide a solid defense for any client, regardless of the circumstances or level of difficulty of the case. Her prior experience in the Pierce County Prosecutor's Office allows her to bring a unique perspective to criminal defense that many attorneys lack, which benefits her clients greatly."

Philip N Petersen headshot
Philip Petersen

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I know known Martha for a couple years, both on the prosecuting and defense side of cases. She is always well prepared for her cases, and respected by the court. For this reason, I endorse her work."

Kelsey E Ault headshot
Kelsey Ault

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 08

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Martha is a great advocate for her clients and gives each and every case 100%."

Matthew Wade McGowan headshot
Matthew McGowan

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 16

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"What a relief! I have rarely experienced less "malarky" from such a fantastic attorney. I have her take care of my own [TOP SECRET] matters... ;)"

Andrew Yi headshot
Andrew Yi

Unknown lawyer | Jul 30

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. During my time as a deputy prosecuting attorney, I was always impressed by Martha's passionate advocacy for her clients. She has a sound legal mind and delivers top-notch results. Now, as a criminal defense attorney, I admire Martha for these same qualities."

Michael J Palumbo headshot
Michael Palumbo

Criminal defense lawyer | May 28

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

Nicole Hankins headshot
Nicole Hankins

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 20

Relationship: Co-worker

"I have had the pleasure of working with Martha at both the prosecutor's office and our current office and I am constantly amazed at her ability to find new and innovative techniques of fighting cases. Martha is one of the most hardworking and well prepared attorneys I have ever met. I whole heartedly endorse her work."

Natalie Lynn Durflinger headshot
Natalie Durflinger

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 20

Relationship: Supervised lawyer

"Martha is an exceptional attorney. I have known few attorneys who work as hard or prepare as thoroughly as Martha does. With her attention to detail, nothing gets by this attorney. She genuinely cares about her clients and works tirelessly on their behalf to get great results in every case. I strongly endorse this attorney!"

View All Endorsements
Daniel J Murphy Jr headshot
Daniel Murphy

Criminal defense lawyer

Martin J.H. Duenhoelter headshot
Martin Duenhoelter

Criminal defense lawyer

Staci Rene Kichler headshot
Staci Kichler

Criminal defense lawyer

Michael Steven Clark headshot
Michael Clark

Criminal defense lawyer

Tracey Munger headshot
Tracey Munger

Criminal defense lawyer

LadyClaire Marion Estillore Kintanar headshot
LadyClaire Kintanar

Criminal defense lawyer

Timothy L. Healy headshot
Timothy Healy

Criminal defense lawyer

Cynthia Ann Macklin headshot
Cynthia Macklin

Criminal defense lawyer

Michael E Harbeson headshot
Michael Harbeson

Criminal defense lawyer

Casey Arbenz headshot
Casey Arbenz

Criminal defense lawyer

Cory Jay Wood headshot
Cory Wood

Criminal defense lawyer

Cristine Beckwith headshot
Cristine Beckwith

Criminal defense lawyer

Angela Horwath headshot
Angela Horwath

Criminal defense lawyer

Ross Dean Brittain headshot
Ross Brittain

Criminal defense lawyer

Philip N Petersen headshot
Philip Petersen

DUI and DWI lawyer

Matthew Wade McGowan headshot
Matthew McGowan

Criminal defense lawyer

Joseph B Cutter headshot
Joseph Cutter

Criminal defense lawyer

Timothy Daniel Sutherland headshot
Timothy Sutherland

Criminal defense lawyer

James Edmund Oliver JR headshot
James Oliver

Criminal defense lawyer

Anna K. Woods headshot
Anna Woods

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.8 (Superb)

Honors

2015

Excellence - Criminal Defense, AVVO

2015

Superb- Criminal Defense, AVVO

2015

Client satisfaction Award, American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys

2014

Award of Excellence, Durflinger Oliver & Associates

2013

Pro Bono Publico Service Commendation, Washington State Bar Association

2012

Pierce County Firm of the Year, NALS

2012

Award of Excellence, Durflinger, Oliver & Associates

2012

Pro Bono Publico Service Commendation, Washington State Bar Association

2011

Pierce County Firm of the Year, NALS

2011

Pro Bono Publico Service Commendation, Washington State Bar Association

2010

Pierce County Volunteer Award, Pierce County

2009

Pierce County Volunteer Award, Pierce County

2007

Cum Laude, Seattle University School of Law

Work Experience

2013 - Present

Corporate Counsel, Steampunk Vapory Lounge LLC

2010 - Present

Senior Associate, Durflinger, Oliver & Associates

2010 - 2010

Moot Court Judge, University of Seattle School of Law

2009 - 2015

Volunteer Attorney, Tacoma Pierce County Bar Expungement Clinic

2008 - 2010

Legal Intern, Pierce County Prosecuting Attorney's Office

2007 - 2007

Legal Intern, The Law Offices of Rachel Rolfes

Associations

2015 - Present

Tacoma Pierce County Bar, Lawyerpalooza Committee

Board Member

2014 - Present

Tacoma Chamber of Commerce

Member

2012 - Present

Washington State Association for Justice

Member

2011 - Present

National College of DUI Defense

Member

2010 - Present

Tacoma Pierce County Bar Association

Member

2008 - Present

Washington State Bar Association

Member

2008 - Present

Tacoma Pierce County Bar Expungement Clinic

Volunteer Attorney

2007 - Present

Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity International

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

State v. Defendant

Motion granted, guilty plea vacated and charges dismissed

State v. Defendant

Acquittal

Firearm restoration

Motion was granted and clients rights were restored

Department of Licensing v. Driver

Won hearing and license was reinstated

State v. Defendant

Charges dismissed

Department of Licensing v. Driver

Case dismissed

Plaintiff v. State of Washington

Won case when Summary Judgment Motion was granted

Plaintiff v. State of Washington

Won case when Summary Judgment Motion was granted

See More Legal Cases

Education

2007

Seattle University School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1984

University of Puget Sound

BS - Bachelor of Science

Speaking Engagements

2010

University of Seattle School of Law

Moot Court Competition/ Judge

2010

Expungment Clinic

Expunging and Vacating Criminal History

Publications

2015

Durflinger Oliver Get your Gun Rights Back

2015

2014

Durflinger Oliver Civil Forfeiture

2014

Durflinger Oliver Marijuana Breath Test

Languages

English

Spanish

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