Brett Bender
About Brett Bender
"Brett, I hope you realize how very valuable your work is to those of us who need, reluctantly, your expertise. I also want to express how fortunate I feel to have found you to represent me and I would not hesitate to recommend you to a friend."
K.S. - Portland
“I had faith in you and you did everything right. Thank you for breaking the cycle of losses. And for all your time, patience and hard work!”
S. T. - Vancouver
I have been a Portland Family Law attorney since 1988 and am licensed to represent clients in both Oregon and Washington. My primary practice areas relate to Family Law which can be an extremely emotional, confusing, hurtful and damaging experience for each family member - but it does not have to be. It is important to me to ensure that my clients not only feel confident that I understand what is important to them in their case but that they also understand and appreciate the applicable law and legal procedures. That understanding and confidence is crucial in the attorney-client relationship and is necessary for the client to make informed decisions about how they would prefer to proceed and the potential emotional and financial costs and time associated with the process.
Most importantly, I strive to ensure that my clients develop reasonable expectations regarding potential case outcomes and to encourage and facilitate fair and equitable negotiated settlements.
I approach each case with an eye toward settlement while at the same time preparing for trial. This helps prevent surprises and supports a strong negotiating position as the case moves forward. When a court appearance is called for I have the experience, knowledge and seasoned ability to prepare, manage, and effectively present the case to the court, whether it involves complex asset and liability issues, business valuation, custody and parenting time, child or spousal support or any combination of these matters.
Perhaps the most important additional qualities I provide to my clients are an assertiveness tempered by common sense and an appropriate sense of humor, which may sound odd in these circumstances but can be a saving grace when things get tough.
A LITTLE ABOUT MY PERSONAL LIFE:
I am married and have two sons in their twenties(ish). I stay fit mostly by road and mountain biking and snow skiing. Member of the Mt. Hood Ski Patrol for nearly 20 years. And I get outside nearly every chance I get. My wife and I travel extensiviely, I read quite a bit and I entertain myself by playing the drums in a rock band. I occasionally write songs and am a recorded songwriter.
BS Journalism, University of Oregon
JD, Lewis and Clark Law School, Member: Cornelius Honor Society.
I understand how overwhelming it can feel when you're facing divorce, custody issues, or any major change in your family structure. You’re not just dealing with legal documents—you’re navigating uncertainty, emotions, and important decisions about your future. My goal is to help you through this process with clarity, compassion, and straightforward guidance.
I focus exclusively on family law because I believe these matters deserve personal, dedicated attention. Whether you need help with divorce, child custody, parenting plans, support orders, or property division, I’m here to advocate for your best interests every step of the way.
Choosing a small, local practice means you work directly with me from start to finish—no handoffs, no surprises. I’ve built my practice to be accessible, responsive, and rooted in our Portland community. I know the courts, the process, and how stressful this can be. My job is to help make it manageable.
If you’re ready to take the next step or just want to understand your options, I offer honest, straightforward consultations with no pressure.
I represent clients in all family law situations, including:
Divorce & Legal Separation
Child Custody & Parenting Plans
Child & Spousal Support
Property Division
Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements
Modifications & Enforcement
When we work together, I’ll take the time to understand your unique situation, explain your options clearly, and help you make informed choices for your family and your future.
No two cases are the same—and neither is my approach. Whether your situation calls for negotiation, mediation, or litigation, I’ll be by your side, providing honest advice and strong advocacy.
Let’s talk about how I can help you move forward. Call today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward peace of mind.
MAJOR PRACTICE AREAS
Divorce or Legal Separation
Child Custody
Child Support
Spousal Support
Domestic Violence
Restraining Orders
Contact BRETT BENDER
530 NW 23rd Avenue
Suite 115
Portland, OR 97210
T: 971-373-8491
F: 503-270-5281
brett@brettbenderlaw.com
Please give me your name, email address and a brief description of your situation and I will contact you to schedule a consultation.
Family Law Practice Areas
- Divorce / Legal Separation
- Child Custody
- Parenting Time
- Child Support
- Property / Asset Division
- Debt / Liability Division
- Spousal Support
- Modification (Custody, Parenting Time, Support)
- Termination of Spousal Support
- Post Secondary (College) Support
- Third-Party Custody (Grandparent or Parent/Child Relationship)
- Third-Party Visitation (Oregon)
- Domestic Violence / Restraining Orders