Laura Yelish

Laura Yelish ATTORNEY AT LAW

Laura is an experienced trial lawyer who has been practicing family law, criminal defense, and juvenile law since 2014. Laura has tried civil bench trial cases on family law matters ranging from relocation cases to protection orders, complex custody disputes, high net worth asset division, and lifetime maintenance. She has successfully argued family law matters in front of the Washington State Court of appeals.

Laura has represented hundreds of misdemeanor criminal defense clients and has tried cases to juries on cases ranging from Assault 4-DV to Felony Harassment- Threat to Kill. Laura has represented juvenile clients in cases ranging from Minor in Possession (MIP) to Assault 2 with a deadly weapon. She also represents youth in At-Risk-Youth, Child-in-Need-of-Services, Juvenile Offenses, and Protection Orders. She has represented parents and juveniles in Juvenile Dependency, Termination of Parental Rights, Minor Guardianship matters.

Laura’s inter-disciplinary experience and approach has maximized results for clients faced with difficult issues related to 191 Restrictions, Domestic Violence, CPS involvement, and criminal charges. Laura’s expertise and interdisciplinary approach permits her to navigate difficult situations within the scope of her practice areas.

Laura is highly respected in the professional community for her ability and integrity. She has been recognized by her peers for her outstanding advocacy. Laura has been recognized by the National Alliance of Attorneys as Attorney of the Year, Family Law; American Institute of Legal Advocates, Rising Star; Public Service & Leadership Award, WSBA New & Young Lawyers Committee.  

Laura is a sought-after speaker at various Continuing legal Education (CLEs). She has presented to the Kitsap County Bar Association on topics ranging from the Intersection between Criminal Law and Juvenile Dependency Law to Ethics. She has presented at Title 26 GAL Certification and Recertification Trainings on topics ranging from an Overview of the Court to Juvenile Dependencies, FAR, and FAP programs. She is presenting at the 2024 WSBA Midyear CLE on the intersection between Family Law, Criminal Law, and Juvenile Law.

Education

  • LLM in Taxation, 2015, University of Washington School of Law
  • Juris Doctorate, 2014, Valparaiso University School of Law
  • BA, 2006, Benedictine university

Bar Admissions

  • Washington, 2014
  • US District court for the Western District of Washington

Professional Associations

  • Kitsap County Bar Association, President (2024), Vice President (2023), Secretary (2022), Treasurer (2021), Trustee (2019-20), Young Lawyer Trustee (2018), Member (2014-present),
  • Washington State Bar Association, Family Law Executive Committee, (present) 2
  • Washington State Bar Association, Board for Judicial Remote Proceedings Workgroup (2023)
  • Washington State Bar Association, Public Service and Probono Committee (2017-19)
  • Washington Defender Association, (2023- present)
  • “Laura was very pleasant and made me feel at ease during a difficult time. She truly cares about helping her clients and their best interests.”
  • “Laura was incredible she pulled off some miracles and got the courts to do the right thing I could not be happier with the outcome she is a true hero and is one of the top lawyers I’ve ever dealt with or seen in my lifetime! If you need the best! Get Laura!”
  • “Laura was exceptionally prepared, considerate with us, and tough with the opposing attorney.”