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Teresa L. Foster

Divorce and separation Attorney at Vancouver, WA

4.5   22 reviews
Virtual consultation available
Virtual consultation available
  • State Years
    Washington - WA 20 years
    Oregon - OR 26 years
  • Licensed for 20 years
    State WA
    Acquired 2003
    Status
    Active No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 26 years
    State OR
    Acquired 1997
    Status
    Resigned No misconduct found

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

About Teresa

Learn Teresa’s areas of practice.

I AM PASSIONATE ABOUT MY CLIENTS' WELL-BEING AND DEDICATED TO PROTECTING WHAT YOU VALUE MOST. CALL 360-525-9336 TO SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION

Teresa Foster is Partner in Charge at McKinley Irvin's Vancouver office. A former social worker, she is now regarded as one of the most skilled family law attorneys in Vancouver. Teresa is a knowledgeable and formidable advocate with exceptional courtroom skills who focuses her practice on complex divorce cases, especially those involving high net worth property division, complex child custody issues, international family law, relocation, third party custody, and unmarried couples. She has successfully litigated cases in both Washington and Oregon. Teresa believes in providing her clients with personalized and responsive service, keeping her clients informed on the status of their case throughout the entire process. Teresa regularly represents clients in the Klickitat, Wahkiakum, Clark, Skamania, and Cowlitz Counties.

Awards

Client's Choice 2018
Client's Choice
2018

Contact Teresa

McKinley Irvin
1111 Main Street
Suite 300
Vancouver, WA, 98660-3282

Reviews

4.5 / 5.0
  22 customer reviews
5 Star
 
86%
4 Star
 
0%
3 Star
 
0%
2 Star
 
0%
1 Star
 
14%
Client's Choice 2018
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 Suzanne | August 22, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Teresa Foster - lawyer extraordinaire (in a league all her own)
I was referred to Teresa Foster by an attorney in Portland. This was the first time in my life that I was represented by an attorney in a legal proceeding. I was blown away by the entire experience and am absolutely convinced that I could not have hired a better lawyer/team to represent me. Teresa is an amazing attorney who comes with the added bonus of her exceptional paralegal Chriss Elliott. From the first moment I met Teresa and Chriss, I felt instantly at ease and assured that I was hiring the absolute best. Throughout the entire process, they were consummate professionals, extremely knowledgeable, and compassionate. They promptly responded to my messages and always kept the lines of communication open. I continuously felt in the loop about the next steps. Nothing falls through the cracks. They go the extra mile and beyond for their clients. When I needed a certified copy of my divorce order immediately after it was finalized (for a time-sensitive issue), Chriss went to court on my behalf and picked up a copy for me. My divorce was one of the most stressful times of my life. However, Teresa and Chriss were the silver lining to the whole experience. I am so thankful that I was referred to Teresa and had the privilege of hiring her and working with her and Chriss. Teresa gave me the best legal advice possible and the end result far exceeded my expectations. She is a masterful negotiator. She absolutely shines in this arena and makes it look effortless. Teresa is worth her weight in gold. Hire her!
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Posted by Autumn | June 17, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Top Notch!!
Going through an unwanted divorce can be incredibly pain at the very least. Teresa’s sharp mind and hardworking sets you at ease knowing you are in great hands. She is firm, straightforward with empathy and compassion. I couldn’t have imagined anyone better to represent me than her. She is rock solid!
Posted by Beth | November 18, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Trust Me. You Need Teresa!
I am consultant in the legal field. I teach lawyers all across the country how to run their businesses and how to create an excellent client experience. When I needed to hire a divorce attorney I turned to Teresa Foster. Here is what you need to know: 1. You know that communication thing where attorneys never call you back? Teresa, her paralegal Chriss Elliott and attorney Faye Breitreed are the top 1% in communication gold standards! You are never left in the dark, and each of them are responsive and mindful of your stress. Yes, Teresa can talk fast.. there's a reason.. she knows you are going to get the bill at the end of the month and she is trying to pack in everything possible in the shortest amount of time to save you money. 2. Teresa and her team set the standards for ethical, smart and well reasoned representation. The judges know she isn't going to play shenanigans, not going to stretch the truth or take advantage. She is a straight shooter who always treats the opposition with respect. Her reputation is stellar. Whether you know it or not, this Does have an effect in court. 3. If you are looking for an attorney that will use your kids as a weapon against the ex, or try to manipulate the truth to just make a point, she is not the attorney for you. This is why she wins people. There is going to be a good guy and a bad guy standing in front of the judge. If you were both good guys, you'd work it out in mediation. Teresa is the good guy, so if want to screw the ex, find someone else. She wins, because she fiercely protects her client, and stands her ground, while being reasonably strategic and objective. 4. She's been doing this awhile, so when she tells you her advice, do it. You will be happier in the long run. 5. Remember to thank Chriss and her team, they are absolutely in your corner and they feel your pain. They make you look good in court and they never miss a beat. I've literally never seen a better paralegal in my work across the country with thousands of law firms. 6. Count yourself lucky if you can get Teresa and Chriss to have your back. Oh and tell them that Beth sent you.
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Posted by Chad | April 19, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Divorce
Wow! Teresa did a fantastic job of telling me the facts and when I was being foolish. Enjoyed working with her and her paralegal Chriss Elliott. Two great people that I will miss now that the divorce is done.
Posted by anonymous | April 5, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Deserving of your trust and confidence
Divorce can be a very ugly, stressful, and greatly unfortunate life event. For me, it made me feel lost, hurt, fearful, and extraordinarily vulnerable. Once I made the decision that this was the path I needed to take, I made the decision to seek legal counsel. Honestly it did not even occur to me to handle it myself. Also, I didn’t have enough trust in my then husband to even contemplate an amicable agreement. I researched firms online and McKinley Irvin stood out repeatedly as a reputable and effective firm. Read through many profiles and was highly impressed. I was assigned Teresa Foster, Senior Partner in Charge in Vancouver WA. She was selected because she is very experienced. Important for me due to a significant income difference between myself and ex. I met with Teresa and our talk was very clear and to the point. It wasn’t a therapy session. It was a “this is how I see the situation. This is what I recommend. These would be the next steps”. This was exactly what I needed ..... direction and clarity. And my perception was that I could trust this direction and Teresa. Also, in understanding that this was all very overwhelming, Teresa extended the offer for me to call/text her with questions as as needed. I took comfort in her leadership and unwavering confidence. As a Senior partner her plate was not at all empty but I was pleasantly surprised at my experience with Teresa’s paralegal Chriss Elliott when I needed anything and Teresa was not available. Truly a dynamic duo. Always so pleasant and accommodating. They both have the same “let’s get it done” attitude. There was no feet dragging and never any disregard. Chriss, also experienced the overwhelmed me and each and every time (there were several) our discussions made me feel so much better. I was impressed by so much, but as the dust cleared I realized how thankful I was by Teresa Foster’s focus, confidence, intelligence to grasp a significant amount of information and know exactly how to proceed, clarity on the goal....and then achieving that goal. I have heard many stories of the lack of trust or confidence others had with their attorney and I’m so thankful that my experience was the complete opposite. I had 100% trust. My divorce ended with as equitable (WA state) outcome as I could have asked. Whether or not it was deserved by him was not relevant, living in a community property state, but it could have been so much worse in many ways and for this I will forever be grateful. I feel so very fortunate to have found both Teresa Foster and Chriss Elliott.
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Posted by Jason | November 20, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Teresa Foster, Thank you!!!
I was fortunate to retain the help of Teresa Foster during my divorce. She was referred to me by several distinguished retired attorneys who said she was the best I could find. I had initially hired a different attorney and I grew frustrated with having unreturned messages and being shuffled off to the 2nd-string attorney who even misspelled my name on a submitted briefing. Teresa and her assistant Chriss Elliott always quickly returned emails, gave me excellent counsel and had their hearts in it. I didn’t feel like I was just one of a hundred clients; I was given excellent personal attention during a difficult time in my life. I will always appreciate the help they gave me. Count yourself fortunate if you have the opportunity to hire Teresa Foster and Chriss onto your team.
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Posted by Michael | September 21, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Divorce and Child custody.
I highly recommend Teresa Foster and her paralegal Chriss Elliott. I needed an attorney with in one day, and I got my call returned the same day. Teresa Met with me the very next day and I hired her by lunch time. My problem was I had to move fast to get a restraining order to protect my self and my 15 year old daughter. We had a domestic violence issue and needed a quick solution. That same afternoon Teresa and I went to my soon to be ex-wife’s hearing and Teresa told the judge that she was representing me. She was already working on the restraining order while sitting at the hearing with me. I was so relieved for my daughter, my home and myself that she could not return to the residence. Safety for us was Teresa’s first priority. Months later Teresa’s high skills paid off. Teresa is so smart, has quick thinking ability, caring and is a very good listener. I won the case and most importantly won full custody of my daughter. I also did not have to pay any alimony at all even after a 16 year marriage. I am so thankful for what Teresa had done. I believe she saved more then one persons life. If you need an attorney look no further then Teresa Foster. She may save your life to. Thank you Teresa.
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Posted by Robyn | August 31, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Fabulous Law Firm!
Teresa is amazingly detail oriented, fact based and quick to act. She know her law and can quote it quickly. When I came to her I was scared, broken full of dread and disbelief; yet, she tactfully and factually told me what I was facing step by step. By standing by me the entire time she gave me strength to face each court appearance, level of discovery and allegation tossed my way. Teresa is a force to be reckoned with, not only was I glad she wasn’t opposing counsel, I always felt safe and fully represented whether in court or giving her new information. It would have taken 6 months to get anywhere regarding splitting our belongings but she had it done in 9 weeks. She put my son first and always fought for his rights. Her paralegal, Chriss, always returned my calls and listened to what I had to say, even if it was just venting. I’d recommend them to anyone.
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Posted by anonymous | August 29, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Only wished I hired her sooner!
Unfortunately, I hired another attorney in Clark County first at the beginning of my divorce proceedings, who lead me in a horrible direction and did not advocate for my children. Once the divorce was final and the children's needs were still not being met, I had a consultation with Teresa. Best decision ever. Hired her immediately and I am still amazed at her work a few years later. She is professional, direct, timely, realistic but will advocate for the client (& their children) and makes you feel heard and important. She clearly understands the law and local court rule but can relate as a fellow parent. I am forever grateful for her hard work and dedication to win our case.
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Posted by John | June 20, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A+ Exceptional
I am overly ecstatic about the work performed by Teresa and her team at McKinleyIrvin. She understood the law and applied the law. She was most fair, and she cut through the clutter to give her honest appraisal, regardless of what I "hoped" to hear. I engaged Teresa with only seven weeks prior to final court trial. Against all odds [opinion from attorneys in the family law profession], with a compressed time frame for preparation, along with her tenacity leading up to and at trial, Teresa was able to navigate and ultimately negotiate a settlement that allowed both parties the dignity of achieving an amicable long-term parenting relationship. Her fees may be on the high side, comparatively; however, she was conscious of both her time and mine while on the phone and in meetings. Having said that, while in the throes of court trial I thought to myself, "Whether the court rules in "my favor" or not, Teresa is worth every penny spent...and more."
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Posted by anonymous | October 20, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Teresa is top notch
I had a long a meandering divorce; I realized that I was being ineffectively represented. The 'ah ha' moment was getting steam rolled in my settlement conference. I knew I needed to make a change, so I surveyed the legal market in Vancouver and hired Teresa. Teresa is great to work with, she is: Very responsive, she got right back to me and always kept me in the loop. Direct, she'd always tell me the likely outcome and how to get there, rather than what I wanted to hear. An overall great advocate, I felt like I switched from playing defense to playing offense and she really drove the process. Thanks to Teresa, I came out of my divorce in a great spot..
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Posted by anonymous | September 14, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Don’t waste another minute. Hire the best.
If you are wondering whether or not you should consult with and hire Teresa, stop wasting your time and make an appointment now. You will have zero doubts about your decision within ten minutes of discussing your case with Teresa. She has a razor sharp mind. Teresa will quickly identify and methodically plot out the most efficient and effective strategy to achieve your desired results. She will be direct and very honest, and you will listen to and follow her advice if you know what is good for you and your family. She will not shy away from a challenge. Teresa will give you the confidence and support you need to navigate calmly and deliberately toward your goals. With Teresa at the helm, opposing counsel will not be deciding the direction of your case. Teresa is in charge. Her professionalism and integrity combined with her exceptional knowledge of the law and second to no one litigator skills place her naturally in the driver seat. Her talents and integrity demand and receive the respect from opposing counsel and the court. Teresa was very honest with me during my initial consultation with her. My case was not simple and I was certainly playing catch up. She explained that we had a mountain to climb to achieve my desired result, but she believed in me. Maybe more importantly, she instilled the confidence in me that she was uniquely experienced and capable of guiding me up the mountain. Today, I am standing atop that mountain and I don’t believe I would be without Teresa’s dedicated and passionate guidance. Don’t waste another minute. Your future depends on it. Hire the best.
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Posted by Theodore | August 31, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Client Theodore Fox
Teresa Foster is an extremely efficient, and helpful attorney. I had an attorney before retaining Teresa and it was a very negative experience. After retaining Teresa I saw immediate positive results. This was a divorce and child custody case. Teresa has amazing ways of taking chaotic and confusing situations and simplifying them. She then makes priority of what needs to happen. Then her vast knowledge of law starts to shine. Not only does she prepare and understand your case, but she prepares for the opposing attorney. She goes into court expecting and predicting anything that can happen. This has a very positive result on the goals you set in the initial consultation. Teresa takes minimal time to decipher what needs to happen. I'm grateful for all she has done for me and my family
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Posted by anonymous | February 13, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great domestic lawyer! Carried my wife's supposedly "top" Vancouver attorney.
Teresa effectively got my legal separation done despite my wife's attorney being non-responsive, slow to return emails or even time to meet with my wife (took him 78 days to meet with her). Several times she talked me off the cliff in my frustration with the other attorney's (supposedly top Vancouver domestic attorney) lack of timely follow through. She effectively carried the other attorney and did 90% of the work. I wish I could print his name here to warn others about him.
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Posted by Kevin | June 3, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding Professional
I contacted Teresa Foster to defend me for a child support/visitation case. From the initial consultation, she already had a strategy. She was very upfront and direct with me with all of my questions and issues. I hired her as my attorney and was very pleased. She treated my case like it was a priority, she kept in constant contact with me, and made sure I was updated with every step of my case. I was also very impressed with the firm as well. Nothing but professional from everyone I was in contact with. I was more than pleased with the results of my case. I would recommend her to anyone and will continue to use her in the future if needed.
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Posted by Allison | March 2, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The best there is.
Teresa Foster has been my personal lawyer for the past three years. I went through a very difficult and lengthy divorce when I was living in Camas, WA with three young boys. My ex was relentless in his attempts to destroy me emotionally and financially. Teresa advised, assisted and represented me in a most determined and professional manner, far above and beyond normal attorney practices. I am sure Teresa would agree that my case was possibly the worst she had seen in her long and distinguished career. This included having to deal with five different plaintiff attorneys during the proceedings. She also endured serious personal attacks by my ex to her professional standing and integrity. While under these varied attacks she stood by me and my case, solidly and relentlessly. She won me custody of our boys and got a relocation approved despite a bitter battle. She obtained passports for my children despite my ex’s objections. Every fight that Teresa went into for me she came out on top. She has been an inspiration and loyal supportive attorney since she first took on my case. I am honored to have had Teresa as my lawyer. She is a sincere and talented person with a wealth of experience and knowledge. She fights aggressively for what is right for her client. I will forever be grateful. Allison
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Posted by Alvie | February 23, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
My lifesaver, literally
My experience with Teresa Foster can be summed up in one word: exceptional. I hired her for my divorce and relocation cases. I knew the battle I was facing and everyone told me to go and find the best lawyer in Clark County. She was a referral from a friend who expressed the importance of having an attorney that would not only represent me well but one who would protect me. I've observed a lot of attorneys litigate and Teresa is by far the best. Teresa went above and beyond for me during years of high-contested litigation. She always kept me in the loop on what was going on, responded immediately to calls and emails, and made sure that I was not only prepared for hearings but that I was over-prepared. Teresa ensured my creditability and integrity stayed intact throughout the case which was very important to me. Teresa is able to keep a pulse on her cases and she has this ability to know when to step in and fill the gaps when you don't quite know what to do. She is meticulous and manages to recall every detail from all parties involved. Teresa will never sugar coat; she is a tell-it-like-it-is, keep it real attorney who will not be intimidated by the opposing side. She strategically kept the upper hand in all matters pertaining to my case without compromising our position and that gave me an overwhelming sense of comfort and peace. You never let your guard down in high-profile cases like mine but I knew I could at least step aside to breathe for a moment, knowing she had everything under control. I don't know where I'd be had I not hired Teresa. It was the best decision I could have made for my children and I. I would not have survived litigation if I didn't have her constantly telling me to stay strong and reminding me of who I really am. She was the person who forced me to hold my head up high, arch my shoulders and walk with assurance in and outside the courtroom. Teresa gave me my strength, dignity and life back, and she did it all with grace, tough-love, and professionalism. For that, I am forever grateful.
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Posted by Derek | February 18, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Simply the Best
As a longtime client of Teresa I have to say she is simply the best family law attorney in the Portland-Vancouver area. I interviewed several attorneys before hiring Teresa and couldn’t be happier with her results. She provides a direct, honest, and strategic approach to successfully navigate even the most contentious cases. Teresa is passionate about her work and will fight to achieve/protect the most vital interest for you and your children in divorce. I highly recommend Teresa to family and friends – she has done an AMAZING JOB for me. Hire her before your Ex does!
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Posted by Candace | September 14, 2014
Great Lawyer!!!
I highly recommend Teresa. She is very upfront and is very honest and will tell you exactly what it is and what to expect even if it's not what you want to hear. I like Teresa because she is blunt. Teresa has a very good heart and is wiling to help me out in every way she can and what she feels is right and the best for my situation. She is very knowledgable and knows exactly what she is doing. She has been a lawyer for quite some time and deals with custody battles, divorces, child support, and families all the time. She is a sweetheart and I highly recommend her. I guarantee you won't regret it.
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Posted by anonymous | July 3, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Cold hearted with no ethics
Teresa Foster wrote an offer letter to a woman from another country without counsel. She has no regard for the well being of women. Her husband has recently assaulted her, but she never took the time to discover this. She should lose her license!
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Cost

Rates
  • Retainer Always
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner in Charge, Vancouver
  • McKinley Irvin
  • 2017 - Present
  • Partner
  • Mckinley Irvin
  • 2016 - Present
  • Partner
  • Morse Bratt Andrews & Foster, PLLC
  • 2010 - 2016
  • Managing Shareholder
  • Stahancyk Kent Johnson & Hook P C
  • 2004 - 2010
  • Attorney
  • Morse & Bratt, PC
  • 2003 - 2004
  • Attorney
  • Stahancyk Kent Johnson & Hook P C
  • 2001 - 2003
View all work experience

Education

  • Arizona State University Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1997
  • Arizona State University
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1994

Associations

  • Washington State Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2003 - Present
  • Oregon State Bar
  • Member
  • 1997 - Present
  • Family Law Section
  • Member
  • N/A
  • Multnomah Bar Association
  • Member
  • N/A
  • Clark County Bar Association
  • Member
  • N/A
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Best Lawyer
  • Best Lawyers
  • 2024
  • Super Lawyer
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2023
  • Super Lawyer
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2022
  • Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2018
  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2018
View all awards

Publications

  • West Legalworks
  • Family and Community Property Law, Vol. 1-3
  • 2016

Attorney endorsements

Received (13)
Given (4)
Endorse Teresa
Divorce and separation Attorney | May 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have worked with Teresa both as a former Partner and as an adversary. She is passionate, dedicated and whip smart. I would recommend her unreservedly"
Family Attorney | Jan 04
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Sep 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Aug 05
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer."
Divorce and separation Attorney | May 05
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Feb 17
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer."
Child custody Attorney | Feb 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Teresa is a strong attorney who is well respected in the legal community."
Family Attorney | May 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Teresa wholeheartedly. She is great to work with, and an admirable opponent. Teresa is always willing to think outside the box to get the job done."
Family Attorney | May 30
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"I endorse Teresa Foster for all types of family law cases. If you have a complicated divorce or child custody issue, you couldn't ask for a better attorney than Teresa Foster."
Unknown Attorney | Feb 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Teresa is an excellent family law attorney with a wealth of knowledge and experience."
Family Attorney | Feb 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Apr 20
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"Teresa Foster is a fantastic family law attorney. She is very knowledgeable, trustworthy, and a great litigator."
Family Attorney | Sep 19
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"I endorse this lawyer's work (as an attorney AND as a supervising attorney)."
View more endorsements
Divorce and separation
Divorce and separation
Divorce and separation

Avvo Contributions

This attorney hasn't created any legal answers in Q&A or legal guides recently on Avvo.

Vancouver Divorce and separation Lawyer Teresa L. Foster
Teresa L. Foster
Divorce and separation Attorney
Vancouver, WA
Licensed for 26 years
Virtual consultation available