Lawrence S. Merrifield, Jr. | Vancouver, WA Family Law Attorney

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

"The team at McKinley Irvin is professional, compassionate, and I felt like I was in good hands working with them."
— Brian

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