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Teresa L. Foster

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Teresa L. Foster

4.8
28 reviews
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 28 years

Divorce and separation Lawyer at Vancouver, WA
Practice Areas: Divorce & Separation, Family, Child Custody

1111 Main Street, Suite 300, Vancouver, WA

Virtual Consultation Available

Call for a consultation (360) 525-9336
Teresa L. Foster's Website
Overview Reviews Experience
Overview Reviews Experience
Call for a consultation (360) 525-9336

About Teresa

Biography

I am passionate about my clients' well-being and dedicated to protecting what you value most. Call 360-525-9336 to schedule a consultation

I am passionate about my clients' well-being and dedicated to protecting what you value most. Call 360-525-9336 to schedule a consultation

I am passionate about my clients' well-being and dedicated to protecting what you value most. Call 360-525-9336 to schedule a consultation

I am passionate about my clients' well-being and dedicated to protecting what you value most. Call 360-525-9336 to schedule a consultation

Practice Areas

3

Practice Areas

Divorce and Separation 90%

90%
Child Custody 5%

5%
Family 5%

5%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Retainer

Always

Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2018
AV Preeminent Peer Review Rating

Avvo Client's Choice Awards

Client's Choice

The Avvo Client's Choice Award Badge is granted to attorneys with a significant number of 4+ star reviews in a given year.

Client's Choice
Client's Choice 2018

AV Preeminent Peer Review Rating

AV Preeminent Peer Review Rating

An elite group of attorneys who have been rated highly by their peers as having Very High Ethical Standards and an A grade (4.5 or higher).

This is the highest peer rating standard. This rating signifies a large number of the lawyer’s peers rank him or her at the highest level of professional excellence for their legal knowledge, communication skills and ethical standards.

Licenses

Licensed in Washington for 23 years

State: Washington

Acquired: 2003

Active

No misconduct found

Licensed in Oregon for 28 years

State: Oregon

Acquired: 1997

Resigned

No misconduct found

Location

McKinley Irvin

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

mckinleyirvin.com/locations/vancouver/
Get Directions

Online Presence

Other places you can find Teresa online.

Teresa L. Foster's Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (27) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.
Star rating
5 stars 24
4 stars 0
3 stars 0
2 stars 0
1 star 3
Practice Areas
Divorce & Separation (19) Child Custody (14) Family (4) Child Support (3) Domestic Violence (2) Lawsuits & Disputes (2) Alimony (1) Litigation (1)
What Clients Mention
Case Results (20) Advocacy (16) Professionalism (15) Communication Style (12) Responsiveness (12) Recommendation (11) Character & Conduct (10) General Knowledge (10) Compassion (9) Trustworthiness (8) Staff & Support (6) Practice Area Knowledge (5) Cost of Services (3) Punctuality (1)

Showing 1 - 5 of 8 reviews | Trustworthiness

Posted by anonymous | April 05, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

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.

Posted by Robyn | September 01, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

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 st...rength 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.

Posted by anonymous | September 14, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes

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 methodic...ally 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.

Posted by Allison | March 02, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

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

Posted by Alvie | February 23, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

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 a...ttorney 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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Teresa L. Foster's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Teresa
John David Morse headshot
John Morse

Divorce and separation lawyer | 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"

Danielle Lynne LaBelle headshot
Danielle LaBelle

Family lawyer | Jan 04

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer."

Vernon H. McCray headshot
Vernon McCray

Family lawyer | Sep 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Sands McKinley headshot
Sands McKinley

Divorce and separation lawyer | Aug 05

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer."

Rita Herrera Irvin headshot
Rita Irvin

Divorce and separation lawyer | May 05

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer."

Casey Sanders headshot
Casey Sanders

Divorce and separation lawyer | Feb 17

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer."

Elizabeth Elaine Christy headshot
Elizabeth Christy

Child custody lawyer | Feb 17

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Teresa is a strong attorney who is well respected in the legal community."

Deanna Rusch headshot
Deanna Rusch

Family lawyer | 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."

Matthew T. Blum headshot
Matthew Blum

Family lawyer | 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."

Tessa Cohen headshot
Tessa Cohen

Unknown lawyer | Feb 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Teresa is an excellent family law attorney with a wealth of knowledge and experience."

Robert Charles Russell headshot
Robert Russell

Family lawyer | Feb 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

John Carlson Terry headshot
John Terry

Family lawyer | Apr 20

Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"Teresa Foster is a fantastic family law attorney. She is very knowledgeable, trustworthy, and a great litigator."

Matthew M. Cohen headshot
Matthew Cohen

Family lawyer | Sep 19

Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"I endorse this lawyer's work (as an attorney AND as a supervising attorney)."

View All Endorsements
Rory Dylan Flay headshot
Rory Flay

Divorce and separation lawyer

Vernon H. McCray headshot
Vernon McCray

Family lawyer

Casey Sanders headshot
Casey Sanders

Divorce and separation lawyer

Austin Batalden headshot
Austin Batalden

Divorce and separation lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2026

Best Lawyer, Best Lawyers in America

2025

Best Lawyer, Best Lawyers in America

2025

Super Lawyer, Washington Super Lawyers

2024

Best Lawyer, Best Lawyers in America

2024

Super Lawyer, Washington Super Lawyers

2024

AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2023

Super Lawyer, Washington Super Lawyers

2022

Super Lawyer, Washington Super Lawyers

2018

Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2018

AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

Work Experience

2017 - Present

Partner in Charge, Vancouver, McKinley Irvin

2016 - Present

Partner, Mckinley Irvin

2010 - 2016

Partner, Morse Bratt Andrews & Foster, PLLC

2004 - 2010

Managing Shareholder, Stahancyk Kent Johnson & Hook P C

2003 - 2004

Attorney, Morse & Bratt, PC

2001 - 2003

Attorney, Stahancyk Kent Johnson & Hook P C

Associations

2003 - Present

Washington State Bar Association

Member

1997 - Present

Oregon State Bar

Member

Family Law Section

Member

Multnomah Bar Association

Member

Clark County Bar Association

Member

Education

1997

Arizona State University Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1994

Arizona State University

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Publications

2016

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

Languages

English

Avvo Rating

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