Joseph (Joe) Linehan’s areas of practice include a wide range of family law matters including divorce, support, parenting plans, parenting plan modifications, minor guardianship, grandparent visitation, juvenile dependency, termination of parental rights, CHINS/ARY, domestic violence/civil protection orders, paternity, modification of spousal support/child support, adoptions, administrative hearings, and appeals. Additionally, Joseph has served as a Spokane County Superior Court Pro Tem Commissioner for 10-years, and has previous experience representing Social Security Disability claimants at both the administrative and federal court levels.
One of the main reasons Joseph joined the Allen|Fischer Law was to further his passion in helping families. He began his career engaging in contract work for the Washington State Office of Public Defense, representing parents in every area of dependency matters, including guardianship and termination of parental rights trials. He specialized in matters involving both the federal and state Indian Child Welfare Acts. This representation provided Joseph a vast experience in successfully litigating cases in both Superior Court and Juvenile Court.
In addition to his litigation experience, Joseph has a great track record in successfully negotiating cases without the need for court intervention. He has helped negotiate amicable resolutions in complex legal matters. The goal of every case should be a good resolution for the parties involved. However, when cases are unable to settle, Joseph has extensive trial experience to ensure that individuals are heard before a judicial determination is made.
Joseph was born in Sunnyside, Washington. He graduated high school from Kiona-Benton High School in Benton City, Washington. Joseph moved to Spokane, WA to attend Gonzaga University. He earned a Bachelor’s degree with majors in both Political Science and Philosophy. After earning his undergraduate degree, he and his wife decided to remain in Spokane, Washington where he earned his law degree from the Gonzaga University School of Law. He is a father of three children.