Sands McKinley

Founder

Seattle | Portland | Tacoma

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Interesting notes about Sands:
Best job perk: I own the place
I'm inspired by: Great ideas that materialize
First job: Dishwasher at a greasy spoon
About
Education
Publications & Presentations

About Sands McKinley

Sands is the founder and CEO of McKinley Irvin. Together with his partners, he has built a firm of outstanding lawyers, staff, and service delivery models – all focused on delivering personalized client service and excellent legal results in every client relationship.

Sands focuses on McKinley Irvin’s vision and strategic planning for the future in a rapidly changing professional and business environment. Because the firm has always been committed to innovation and continuous improvement, as well as leveraging technology and smart management methods, McKinley Irvin is both ready and eager to meet the challenges of the future while remaining squarely focused on our two most important considerations – #1 our clients, and #2 our outstanding group of professionals.

"At the heart and soul of our firm is a commitment to excellence in every aspect of serving our clients," says Sands. "Our goal is to surprise and delight our clients during our relationship. Likewise, within the firm we are committed both as a group and individually to be the best we can be as people and professionals, and we support one another toward that end."

Sands is a vocal proponent of innovation and evolution within the practice of law, the business of law, and legal education. He shares his views and ideas on his blog, On the Future of Law.

Before turning his focus to the management and growth of the firm, Sands represented clients in more than 200 contested family law cases. He also represented individuals and businesses in business planning, formation, contracts, and litigation matters. Clients included industrial contractors, trade associations, construction contractors, food service franchises, real estate investors and developers, information technology companies, and many others.

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Education

  • J.D., Seattle University School of Law
  • B.A., Political Science and Legal Studies, Pacific Lutheran University
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Publications & Presentations

Publications

In the Media

  • "Working harder on Tacoma relationship," The News Tribune, April 1, 2011
  • "Seattle Law," Puget Sound Business Journal, January 28, 2011
  • "Ending a Marriage and Preserving a Partnership," Puget Sound Business Journal, August 24, 2007.
  • Listen to Sands McKinley's interview with Don Riggs on the 94.1 KMPS Introspect Northwest Show, July 8, 2007.
  • "Divorce and Business, Avoid the Pitfalls when a Marriage Crumbles," Puget Sound Business Journal, March 23, 2007.
  • Listen to an interview with Sands McKinley on the Rolonda radio show, July 6, 2007.
  • Sands McKinley was a featured guest on the Bob Pittman radio show, Legal Line on Talk 770, KTTH to discuss important tips to consider before marriage, July 1, 2007.
  • Sands McKinley was a featured guest on the Rolonda radio show at 10:20 a.m. to discuss cutting edge social and legal issues concerning the American family, June 11, 2007.
  • Best Law Firms
  • Best Lawyers
  • Super Lawyers
  • AV Preeminent
  • Avvo Rating 10.0
  • American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers
"Thanks for all the work for our family over the past year. We’re really glad you are on our side."
"David remained very level headed and family focused throughout our proceedings. That said, I always felt my specific needs were very well ..."
"Without David and Sam, there is no way I could have made it through this exceptionally difficult time in my life. I cannot imagine two ..."
"My daughter is the sunshine of my life. I felt despair and a sense of helplessness on the day I was served. On the first appointment day ..."
"In our search for a reputable law firm to handle my sister’s divorce case, we explored our options until we found the McKinley Irvin law ..."
"My attorney was very good in and out of the courtroom. Always kept me up to date on any issues that came up and was very knowledgeable on ..."
"I would like to give my sincere appreciation to Jennifer Payseno and staff. You all stood by me no matter how trying my case got. I always ..."
"Dave, thank you very much for doing such a wonderful job. It has been a pleasure working with you."
"From start to finish, the team at McKinley Irvin took care of me and my family. I couldn’t ask for more. What happened in court was exactly ..."
"I have dealt with approximately 4 lawyers in the past from other law firms. Laura from McKinley Irvin, however, handled my case with ..."
"I can’t tell you how much I appreciate your help with my case. I know the call I got from your office was an answer to my tearful and ..."
"I am so very thankful that I chose to work with McKinley Irvin and the wonderful staff they have in place. Highly recommended!"
"A huge weight and amount of stress was lifted as soon as I hired Jamie Walker. Having her on my team was exactly the peace of mind I needed ..."
"Getting a divorce was hard enough as it is. I was nervous and just wanted to get it over with before my ex-wife thought of anything else she ..."
"Marc provided steady counsel and support through the emotional times. He kept us focused and moving forward during the meetings."
"Wish I had you when I first got divorced. It’s so hard to find a reliable lawyer, but I must say, you are one of the best."
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