Behind Jennifer Payseno’s calm and deliberate demeanor are the intellect and ability of one of Seattle’s finest family law attorneys. Affiliated with McKinley Irvin since 1999, Jennifer is highly regarded throughout the legal community for her integrity, courtroom skills, and unwavering commitment to every family she serves.

This veteran professional maintains that the primary keys to a successful family law practice are painstaking preparedness, in-depth legal knowledge, genuine respect for every client, and an ability to identify with each individual’s special and specific concerns.

"For me, it comes down to listening and understanding. My clients come to me during an exceedingly difficult time in their lives. Divorce is a life-altering experience. It’s real and it’s personal. My capacity to appreciate the uniqueness of every case and every client is an important skill I bring to the table."

Indeed, one of the most appealing aspects of the practice, says Jennifer, is its exceptional variety.

"Every case is different,” notes the outdoor enthusiast who enjoys weekend hikes with her husband and their two dogs. “On any given day, I might be dealing with complex business interests, real estate investments, stock options, parenting plans, or complicated tax issues."

"What never changes, however, are several principles on which I have built my practice: Provide a safe haven for my clients to vent their fears and frustrations and hopes for the future; consistently put the interests of my clients first; and always—always—negotiate from a position of strength."

McKinley Irvin founding partner Sands McKinley is an unabashed admirer of his colleague’s skill and savvy.

“We met Jennifer years ago when she was the opposing attorney in a case,” he recalls. “She was an extremely tough opponent, exceptionally well prepared, well-respected by the court, and a steadfast client advocate. She understood how to develop case strategy and execute it effectively. In sum, she was—and is—a real pro.

We knew she belonged at McKinley Irvin, and we had the good fortune of persuading her to join us.”