About Debra

Debra Synovec practices family law in Seattle, Washington. She has been a member of the Washington State Bar Association since 1984 and also holds licenses in Illinois and Minnesota. Her firm focuses on family law, with particular emphasis on divorce and elder law matters. The firm provides services to clients navigating complex family dynamics, ensuring that their legal needs are met with care and professionalism. She earned her J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law in 1983. Prior to that, she obtained a B.S.

in Accounting from the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities in 1975, and a B.A. in Social Work from St. Cloud State University in 1971. Her diverse educational background equips her with a unique perspective on the financial and emotional aspects of family law cases. This foundation has been instrumental in her approach to mediation and conflict resolution. Most of her work involves mediating disputes related to divorce and custody arrangements. She has been a certified mediator since 1988 and has experience in facilitating discussions between parties to reach amicable agreements.

Cases typically involve negotiations around asset division, child support, and visitation rights. Her role as a mediator allows her to assist clients in finding solutions that are mutually beneficial, reducing the emotional strain often associated with family disputes. Before focusing on family law, she served as a CFO, which provided her with valuable insights into financial matters that often arise in divorce cases. This experience has proven beneficial in her current practice, where financial considerations can significantly impact legal outcomes. Her understanding of both the legal and financial implications of family law enables her to offer comprehensive guidance to her clients. Debra is actively involved in several professional organizations. She is a founding member of the Academy of Professional Family Mediators and serves as the chair of the ADR Section of the Washington State Bar Association.

Additionally, she is a member of the Association for Conflict Resolution, where she holds the designation of Advanced Practitioner. Her commitment to ongoing professional development ensures that she stays current with best practices in mediation and family law. In her free time, Debra enjoys volunteering within her community, advocating for families in need. She believes in the importance of giving back and often participates in local events that support family welfare. Her dedication to her clients and her community reflects her focus on family law and mediation, making her a respected figure in the Seattle legal field.

Education

William Mitchell College of Law

J.D | Law

1983

University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

B.S | Accounting

1975

Minnesota State College & University - St. Cloud State University

B.A | Social Work

1971

Experience

Mediator

Debra Synovec & Associates
1989

Mediator

Erickson Mediation Institute
1988

CFO

Dain Corporation
1981

Accepted Jurisdictions

Illinois
Washington
Minnesota

Court Admissions

Illinois Supreme Court State Supreme Court
Minnesota Supreme Court State Supreme Court
Washington Supreme Court State Supreme Court · Admitted 1984

Types of Cases Handled

family law divorce elder law

Legal Services Scope

Mediation

Certifications & Awards

Certified mediator

Mediate.com

Advanced Practitioner has membership

Association for Conflict Resolution

Advanced has membership

Academy of Professional Family Mediators

Professional Associations

Academy of Professional Family Mediators

Founding has membership and Advanced has membership 2012 - Current

ADR Section WSBA

Chair 2008 - Current

Association for Conflict Resolution

Advanced practitioner has membership 1990 - Current

Office Locations

Main Office

 1818 Westlake Avenue North, Suite #314 Seattle WA 98109