Same-Sex Marriage Issues

Attorneys

• Sierra Fotos Associate
  

  Sierra Fotos

  Associate

  Sierra has a long history in family law, having grown up in a single-parent household. Family law is something that she understands has critical implications and importance.
  
  Sierra has worked in family law her entire career and understands that each case comes with its unique facts and specifics. She believes it is crucial to have a commonsense and practical approach to advocating for her clients. Sierra is driven to seek resolution for her clients and does not have any qualms about litigating on their behalf.  She enjoys helping her clients through these critical times of their lives.
  
  Sierra grew up in the Bay Area and finds Portland to be a perfect combination of city and wilderness. When not zealously advocating for her clients, Sierra can be found camping, exploring brunch locations, cheering on the Portland Thorns, or spending time with her family.
  
  “Not fragile like a flower, fragile like a bomb.” – Ruth Bader Ginsberg
  
   
• Scarlett Van Syoc Associate
  

  Scarlett Van Syoc

  Associate

  Scarlett is a compassionate and dedicated family law attorney with a profound understanding of the emotional turmoil that clients experience during family law litigation. With Scarlett's empathetic approach, clients can find solace in knowing that their every concern will be acknowledged and addressed throughout the legal process.  With well over a decade of family law experience, much of it spent in the courtrooms of New York City, Scarlett has honed the skill of identifying whether a case will be best served by a gentle approach or an aggressive one.
  Known for her ability to navigate the complex intersection of law and emotions, Scarlett helps clients make clear and informed decisions for their future. By providing guidance and support, Scarlett ensures that clients have a solid foundation to build a brighter future upon.
  
  In addition to her expertise in family law, Scarlett brings a unique perspective to each case. She describes herself as having the remarkable ability to find humor in any situation, which can help alleviate tension and foster positive communication. This, combined with her tenacity and extroverted nature, allows Scarlett to connect with clients on a personal level and build strong relationships based on trust and understanding.
  
  One of the most important lessons Scarlett has learned throughout her career is that being the loudest voice in the room doesn't necessarily equate to being the voice heard. Scarlett firmly believes in the power of thoughtful communication and emphasizes the impact of words before they are spoken. This wisdom guides her interactions with clients, opposing counsel, and the court, ensuring that every word spoken is purposeful and productive.
  
  Beyond the courtroom, Scarlett enjoys various hobbies that enrich her life and bring balance to their profession. She is an avid cook, constantly exploring new and interesting cuisines. Scarlett also devotes her time to animal rescue and volunteering.  She finds joy in swimming, hiking, indulging in reality shows on Bravo (a guilty pleasure), and cherishing moments spent with her own rescue pitbull, Quinn.
  
  With Scarlett's combination of empathy, legal expertise, and a genuine passion for helping clients, she is well-equipped to guide individuals through the challenges of family law and create a positive path forward for their clients' lives.
• Kristin Willis Associate
  

  Kristin Willis

  Associate

  Kristin believes that family is the most important aspect of our lives—and when change happens it is hard to see beyond the immediate conflict.  Her primary goal is to help clients navigate difficult times and find the right solution so they can move forward. Those who have worked with Kristin can attest to her practical problem solving skills, efficient work ethic, and ability to find common ground with people of all walks of life. Her well-grounded and optimistic nature have taught her there is no replacement for careful preparation, and that success is usually a bi-product of great collaborative effort. Kristin is dedicated to helping her clients understand the complex family legal process and ultimately bringing peace of mind to each person, and family, she represents.
   
  When not in the office, I’ll likely find Kristin adventuring throughout the pacific northwest; hiking in the mountains or somewhere near the water, playing board games with friends or enjoying a great glass of Oregon pinot noir.