Olson Legacy Law - Family Law Litigation Firm
Specializing in High Conflict Family Law Litigation, Domestic Violence Cases, and
Estate Planning
Our attorneys excel in managing complex divorces involving significant financial portfolios, business interests, real estate holdings, and intricate asset divisions. We bring a meticulous approach to high-value cases, ensuring that every financial and legal detail is accounted for, while fiercely protecting your interests.
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For those facing contentious custody battles, aggressive litigation, or complex asset division, Olson Legacy Law is the firm you want in your corner. We are not only skilled litigators but also trusted advisors who guide you through the legal process with clarity and confidence.
The Olson Legacy
For almost 100 years Ballard has been the home to the Olson/Jonson family law firm. Beginning in 1928, Axel Ernest Jonson began his law practice as one of three male lawyers in Ballard. At that time, family law wasn’t acknowledged as a specialty so Axel focused on real estate law while assisting others in a variety of law cases. In 1933, Axel’s oldest daughter Bernice Jonson, joined him in his Ballard office on Leary Way. Bernice became an inspirational figure for women lawyers including her granddaughter, Ashley. In 1949, after her marriage to Arthur Olson another Ballard resident and pharmacist, Bernice purchased a house built in 1898 on Market Street. Bernice remodeled two houses she had purchased to as it stands today. Bernice was known (and feared) for her tough demeanor and became honored in the field of family law.
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By 1980, with the addition of two of her sons, Eric and Mark, the firm had seen three generations practicing law in Ballard. Eventually, Mark moved out of Ballard to start his own practice.
In 2015, Eric’s daughter Ashley followed in her grandmother’s footsteps joining her father and taking over the longstanding office building and law firm.
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Ashley has built a reputation quite like her predecessors with the passion of loving to practice law. Also, Ashley has continued the firm’s unique philosophy of advocating for her clients by helping them reach a fair and amicable settlement while avoiding escalating hostilities and expenditures. As Bernice joined her father Axel and inspired women lawyers, Ashley joined her father Eric and continues to inspire others. It’s fair to say that almost a century later, the Olson Law Legacy continues on…
Ashley Olson
Owner & Managing Partner
As a 4th generation family law attorney my entire life has been infused with the principles and best approaches in family law. While I approach each case with care and tact, I have extensive litigation experience and enjoy the dance of litigation. However, my focus always remains on settlement and the best interests of each client.
I approach each case as though it is my own and take a collaborative, future-oriented approach. Ultimately, it is the client who must live with the outcome of a case, and for that reason I expect each client to play an active role in his or her case. I want each client to feel empowered throughout the course of representation, making fully informed decisions as we work towards resolution.
My primary focus is domestic violence, high conflict custody disputes, CIR, and complex financial disputes. However, my first love is child custody, which not many attorneys can say. There is nothing more important than children and custody. I have a tenured background in psychology, and my approach in high conflict cases is unique and widely recognized within the Washington Legal Community. Because of my success in high conflict litigation, I am frequently asked to join cases, and have been invited to speak to both attorneys and our State Legislators about high conflict cases.
Our firm operates like a family and we rely on each other heavily to ensure that each client is represented to our best ability. I am proud of the community we have built at our firm as I believe we are home to some of the most innovative and hard working family law attorneys in our region.
I have a child, who is the center of my world, so I understand the importance of your child and the important role parents play in their child’s life. My son and I enjoy traveling together, trying new adventures, hiking, and a plethora of other activities.
I look forward to working with you to best navigate your situation to find the best outcome for you and your family.
Emily Staker
Partner
Emily is a strategic and results-driven family law attorney known for her sharp negotiation skills and unwavering commitment to client advocacy. She brings a powerful combination of litigation experience, high-level negotiation expertise, and a client-centered approach to her practice. At Olson Legacy, Emily primarily handles high-net-worth divorces, where she navigates complex financial matters and high-stakes disputes with precision and professionalism. While she strives for amicable resolutions, Emily is a formidable litigator when courtroom advocacy becomes necessary. Her ability to resolve contentious cases efficiently has allowed many high-value communities to reach favorable settlements without unnecessary litigation.
Emily earned her law degree from the University of Denver Sturm College of Law as a distinguished Provost Scholar, receiving multiple awards for Scholastic Excellence. She honed her negotiation skills in law school by competing in national negotiation competitions, consistently ranking among the top teams in the country. Before law school, she graduated Summa Cum Laude from Gonzaga University with a degree in Political Science and was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Sigma Nu Jesuit Honor Society.
Beyond family law, Emily is an NFLPA Certified Contract Advisor, leveraging her legal expertise to secure high-value contracts that protect professional athletes throughout their careers. She is also an adjunct professor at the University of Denver Sturm College of Law, where she teaches Sports Law courses, further demonstrating her deep understanding of complex negotiations and contract law.
Originally from Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, Emily always aspired to build her legal career in Seattle. She now enjoys everything the Pacific Northwest has to offer, from its stunning landscapes to its passionate sports culture. Whether representing high-net-worth individuals in family law disputes or negotiating multi-million-dollar contracts, Emily’s approach remains the same—strong, strategic, and always focused on achieving the best possible outcome for her clients.
Anneli Cers
Associate
Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, Anneli attended the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, earning a B.S. in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences, along with a minor Environmental Law and Policy. She went on to earn her J.D. from Lewis & Clark Law School, where she was an Article Editor for the Lewis & Clark Law Review and an active member of the Environmental Law Caucus.
During her time in law school, Anneli held positions as a legal extern at federal and state agencies, law clerk at a construction and real estate law firm, and extern at an environmental nonprofit organization. These experiences provided opportunities to hone her skills in legal research and client advocacy in a range of legal fields. Anneli also earned a Pro Bono Honors Award in law school, reflecting her commitment to serving the community and advocating for those in need. She brings a detail-oriented approach to family law matters, ensuring that clients receive comprehensive and compassionate support.
At Olson Legacy, Anneli represents clients in family law matters and in estate planning. Anneli cares deeply about her clients and works tediously to ensure their voices are heard and their interests are advanced.
Anneli enjoys backpacking, biking, and running with her dog in the beautiful mountains of the Pacific Northwest.
Katherine Anderson
Associate
Katherine became an attorney because she was set on dedicating herself to a career that can help people. She’s ecstatic to be at a firm that advocates so fiercely for their clients.
Katherine graduated from Lewis & Clark Law School in Portland. During her time in law school, she received awards for her dedication to community service and was an Associate Editor for the Lewis & Clark Law Review. Prior to attending law school, Katherine graduated from the University of Washington with a B.A. in Sociology.
Katherine is aware that clients are going through some of the toughest parts of their lives and maintains her focus to ensure that clients feel heard and advocated for. She understands that every client is different and is determined to find the best strategy to achieve each individual client’s goal.
Born and raised in Western Washington, Katherine is delighted to be back in Seattle.
In her spare time she enjoys spending time outdoors, seeing live music, and a good road trip.
Lia Cunningham
Associate
Lia Cunningham is a new associate at our office. She attended Gonzaga Law School, graduating in 2024 with the pro bono distinction award for her commitment to public service. During law school, she worked as a Rule 9 intern with the Washington Attorney General’s Office, representing DSHS in child dependency cases. She also held positions in student government, Gonzaga’s DEI council, and created a proposal with the Northwest Justice Project on how to tackle racial bias from judges and juries. Of all her activities, the Walking School Bus is by far her most beloved: a program where she and other volunteers would walk children in underfunded Spokane communities to school each morning with the goal of building authentic relationships.
She graduated cum laude from Gonzaga with a B.A. in Sociology in 2020. She originally planned to work for the Peace Corps upon her graduation, having earned a position in Madagascar to work as an English teacher. However, the Covid pandemic derailed such plans. She then worked as a housing advocate for the YWCA, assisting domestic violence survivors in finding safety, securing government assisted housing, and providing support for clients and their families.
Lia attended law school wanting to pursue a career in family law, having a background in advocating for children and their well-being. She personally understands the profound and long lasting effects a divorce can have on a family and an individual. She represents her clients with integrity and compassion, guarding each client’s sense of self-worth in an often difficult process.
Pamela Howell
Legal Assistant
Pamela is an indispensable part of Olson Legacy Law, ensuring that every case is handled with precision, care, and the highest level of professionalism. As the attorneys' primary administrative support and a key player in case management, she provides essential support to our team and works closely with clients to ensure they feel informed, supported, and confident throughout their legal journey.
Her meticulous attention to detail and dedication to efficiency keep our firm running seamlessly. From coordinating case strategies to managing day-to-day operations, Pamela plays a vital role in maintaining the standard of excellence and reliable representation that Olson Legacy Law is known for. Her hard work behind the scenes directly contributes to our attorneys’ success, allowing them to focus on delivering top-tier legal advocacy.
Beyond her organizational expertise, Pamela brings a positive energy to the firm that uplifts both clients and colleagues. Her warm demeanor and unwavering support create a welcoming atmosphere, helping clients navigate the legal process with reassurance and clarity.
A proud Northwesterner, Pamela is also a talented paper artist at The Georgetown Trailer Park Mall and a passionate Seattle Sounders fan. Her creativity and enthusiasm extend beyond the office, further enriching the vibrant and dynamic culture of our firm.
Pamela is not just part of the team—she is the foundation that ensures our clients receive the exceptional care and representation they deserve.
Katya Myers
Receptionist
Meet Katya, the Warm Welcome to Our Firm
As the first point of contact at Olson Legacy Law, Katya ensures that every client feels valued, heard, and supported from the very first conversation. With a warm demeanor and a genuine passion for helping others, she creates a welcoming environment that sets the tone for the compassionate and dedicated legal services we provide.
With a natural ability to bring positivity into every interaction, Katya understands that family law matters can be stressful and emotional. She takes pride in offering kindness and reassurance, ensuring that clients feel at ease when reaching out for help. Whether scheduling appointments, answering questions, or directing inquiries, she approaches every task with professionalism, patience, and a smile.
Beyond her role as the firm’s receptionist, Katya is an integral part of our team, ensuring seamless communication between clients and attorneys. Her dedication to providing exceptional service reflects our firm’s commitment to personalized, client-focused representation.
When she’s not brightening the day of those who call or visit our office, Katya enjoys crafting, spending time with her cats, and bringing the same warmth and enthusiasm to her personal life as she does to her work.
At Olson Legacy Law, we know that exceptional legal service starts with a compassionate and welcoming experience, and Katya embodies that philosophy every day.
At Olson Legacy Law, we believe that the true measure of a good lawyer is the ability to bring clarity and resolution to challenging legal situations. We are committed to upholding excellence and integrity in every case we handle.
