Lawrence S. Merrifield, Jr. | Senior Attorney at McKinley Irvin

Lawrence S. Merrifield, Jr. Senior Attorney

Vancouver

Lawrence S. Merrifield, Jr. (Larry) has been practicing law for more than 20 years, guiding clients through complex and emotional legal matters with a steady hand, practical insight, and genuine empathy. He focuses his practice on family law because he values the opportunity to help people navigate major life transitions with clarity and compassion.

Clients appreciate Larry’s calm demeanor and direct, honest communication style. He takes time to explain not just the legal process, but what each step might mean for the people involved.

“I want my clients to feel empowered, not overwhelmed. Knowing what to expect, both the possibilities and the limitations, helps people move forward with confidence,” he says.

Larry believes that the best outcomes often come through cooperation rather than conflict. While he is a strong and experienced courtroom advocate, he prioritizes resolving disputes amicably when it serves his client’s interests.

“If we can avoid litigation and preserve a working relationship between co-parents, everyone benefits,” he explains. “I always want to help my clients reach the best resolution, not just the fastest or most aggressive one.”

Before shifting his focus to family law, Larry served as Director of Litigation at Epiq Corporation, managing high-stakes class action cases. He argued before the Washington State Supreme Court in Aitchison v. Great Western Malting, 161 Wn.2d 372 (2007). He has been trained and previously served as a Guardian ad Litem under RCW Chapter 26, appointed to protect the best interests of children in family law cases across Southwest and Eastern Washington.

Outside of work, Larry is an accomplished runner and passionate youth coach. A two-time World Masters Games gold medalist, he is currently training for the New York City Marathon and is proud to have run a sub-three-hour marathon in four different decades. He volunteers with the Bowerman Track Club, a Nike-affiliated organization, where he has been a youth cross-country coach for nearly a decade. “I keep thinking I’ll step back, but then a new group of kids comes along and I fall in love with their passion and energy,” he says. What began as a way to support his son has become one of his most meaningful commitments, giving back to the community through mentorship and consistency.

Larry lives with his wife and two children in Southwest Washington. He is a proud Gonzaga dad, a devoted cross-country parent, and a lifelong Timbers fan. Their rescue dog, Phoebe, completes the family.

More About Lawrence Merrifield, Jr.

Education
- J.D., Gonzaga University School of Law
- B.S., University of Oregon, Political Science
Professional Activities
Memberships
- Washington State Bar Association
- Clark County Bar Association
- Domestic Relations Attorneys of Washington (DRAW)
Community Activities
- Youth Coach, Bowerman Track Club, 2015–present

Practice Areas

"Going through a divorce is never easy, but the team at this firm made the process as smooth and supportive as possible."
— Aaron

Let us know how we can help you navigate your family law issue:

- Full Name
  Please enter your full name.
- Phone
  Please enter your phone number.
  
  This isn't a valid phone number.
- Email
  Please enter your email address.
  
  This isn't a valid email address.
- County / State
  Please enter your county and state.
- Preferred Office
  Please make a selection.
- Preferred Method of Contact
  Please make a selection.
- Share Your Story
  Please enter a message.
  
  Maximum 500 characters
- Case Type
  Please enter your Case Type.
  
  Maximum 100 characters
Please enter the captcha above:
Please Note: Your privacy is important to us. Information sent via this form is not protected by attorney/client privilege. We do not accept service of legal process or correspondence from opposing parties or their counsel through our website. Please view our Privacy Policy and Terms of Hire for more information.

Meet the Region’s Premier Family Law Firm
“From start to finish, the team at McKinley Irvin took care of me and my family. I couldn't ask for more.”

Who

“We are dedicated to fighting our client’s fight, and to offering them our absolute best every day.” Rita Herrera Irvin McKinley Irvin Founder & CEO

View Our Attorneys

"My case was handled perfectly."
John and his legal team have had my back all the way.Their response to any of my questions and concerns was always prompt. They made me feel as though I was their only client. Once the I's were dotted and T's crossed, my divorce came swiftly. My case was handled perfectly. I cannot recommend them highly enough!

– Clancy

| Kirkland, WA
"Offered me sound advice."
After 25 years of marriage I was blindsided when served with a petition for divorce. Jennifer was very professional, she took the time to understand my case, offered me sound advice and, along with her team, guided me through the entire process resulting in a fair settlement without going to court.

– Nick

| Seattle, WA
"Better than I could have hoped."
Casey helped keep my case focused, was mindful of billing and time, and litigated my case better than I could have hoped. I cannot provide enough recommendations for his thoughtful and careful representation. You will be in good hands!

– Bekki

| Vancouver, WA
"Helped me through the most difficult time in my life."
John Rosecrans (and his awesome team!) helped me through the most difficult time in my life. To John, it's about doing the right thing and making sure I am supported and properly informed of my options at every turn. John, Leanne and Patty have always gone above and beyond, and for that I am forever grateful.

– Jessica

| Everett, WA
"A fierce advocate for me during my divorce."
Cameron was a fierce advocate for me during my divorce, and Amy kept me apprised every step of the way. I never once felt "in the dark" about my case, I always felt seen and heard, and was consistently treated with the highest level of compassion and professionalism.

– Sarah

| Tacoma, WA
"Earned my respect and trust."
What impressed me most, is how incredibly well prepared she was and how confident she was in court. She's so professional and empathetic. She realizes how hard it can be to need her services and really helped explain the process so there were no surprises. I can't thank her enough. Caitlin [Royse] has earned my respect and trust.

– Former Client

| Everett, WA
"A terrific support every step of the way."
Nathan Julius is amazing, knowledgeable and comforting! He has been a terrific support every step of the way through a difficult case with many stressful moments. Everyone at McKinley Irvin has been so helpful through this whole process.

– Georgia

| Seattle, WA
"I could not be happier with the outcome."
Best attorney and team in Vancouver! I could not be happier with the outcome! Her and her team are always very quick to respond to my questions and give answers that I could understand. She truly made me feel like she was in it with me throughout the whole process! I would recommend Teresa and her team every time!

– Lindsay

| Vancouver, WA
"Guided me through the divorce process."
McKinley Irvin and their team are wonderful. They were always available whenever I had questions, and guided me through the divorce process with patience and kindness! I highly recommend them for any of your law needs.

– Ashley

| Kirkland, WA
"I felt heard and supported."
My case was a high-asset, amicable divorce with children after 20 years of marriage. From the start, Theresa was upfront and direct, clearly explaining what was and wasn’t possible according to the law. I felt heard and supported throughout, and I believe her dedication helped us move through this significant life change as smoothly as possible.

– Shelley

| Seattle, WA

Trusted Advocates

Our lawyers have been recognized for their professionalism and legal ability by prestigious institutions, including Chambers & Partners, Best Lawyers^®, Super Lawyers^®, Martindale-Hubbell, and others.
Personal Approach
It is our goal to achieve the best possible results for our clients while delivering world-class personal service. We provide compassionate, responsive, and proactive representation.
Family Law Expertise
McKinley Irvin represents clients in both traditional and complex family law matters, including subspecialties such as international cases and high-asset financial distributions.