team-member

Michael Hallas

Portland, OR

Licensed for 20 years

Law Degree

Awards

Primary Practice Area

Child custody

Language

English

About

My professional practice is dedicated to representing clients in Oregon family law matters with crossover experience representing Oregon residential landlords. In my family law practice I represent clients involved in divorce, custody, parenting time, support and domestic violence restraining order litigation. In addition to litigation I engage in cooperative and collaborative divorce processes, and I have a number of clients who seek pre-litigation planning and advice, mediation preparation and use me to counsel them through the out-of-court negotiation of their family law disputes. My goal is to provide compassionate, effective and efficient legal counsel. I am comfortable providing strong and smart advocacy in contested matters, but my real strength lies in finding ways to help clients identify their priorities, the goals they have in common with the opposing party, and the opposing parties' motivations to help my client's down a path that leads them to the best possible outcome. My prior practice experience doing tort defense, plaintiff's subrogation litigation, adversarial bankruptcy proceedings, employment disputes, disputes representing secured creditors and residential and commercial landlords has taught me to see legal disputes from all sides. I use this perspective to develop evidence that builds my clients' cases while undercutting my client's adversaries positions in court or to create leverage to reach resolution. This perspective is particularly useful in family law matters because it is a complex and varied substantive practice where I can use my working knowledge of many other areas of substantive law to my clients' benefit. I strive to be effective in my advocacy, responsive to my client's concerns and compassionate of clients difficult and varied feelings as the navigate family law disputes. My goal is to help clients through a difficult time to help the achieve the best results possible. 

Practices Areas

Child custody

Child support

Divorce and separation

Family

Language

English

Contact

Michael Hallas, Attorney at LawPO Box 15125Portland, OR, 97293PO Box 15125Portland, OR, 97293

Office: N/A

Website: N/A

Reviews

Jay
January 9, 2020

I contaced Michael for an opinion on a divorce matter. It was an urgent matter and I needed immediate answers. He is super responsive. Replied to my email within minutes and consulted me late hour of the evening. I highly recommend him.

anonymous
May 16, 2017

I hired Michael upon making the decision to leave a very devious partner. I knew the divorce and related custody, support and parenting plan issues would be likely result in a long and trying process. My goals were to stay out of court and achieve a plan that was in the best interest of my child. It was scary as I knew nothing about family law. I was put at ease the moment I met Michael. He made an effort to connect with me and understand the unique nature of my case. He was clearly a seasoned expert with issues related to family law. The road was indeed long, but ultimately successful. Michael and his assistant were always responsive and I felt as if I was their only client over the course of many months. Further, Michael was incredibly honest and enjoyable to work with. He expertly coached me in my negotiating, giving me confidence and, ultimately, results I was happy with. I also felt assured that if I had to go to court, he would be tenacious in his effort to get the results I cared about. I’ll be honest- it cost a fortune, but securing my child’s best interest was priceless and so worth every penny. I would definitely hire him again!

Amy
January 7, 2017

I put my trust in Michael Hallas and I was not disappointed. Michael has a quick and intuitive intellect. He is approachable and compassionate. He was quick to answer my many questions and was thorough and very patient. Michael's many attributes allowed me to make tough decisions with confidence. My settlement was far more favorable that it would have been had I not hired him. I would definitely recommend Michael Hallas.

anonymous
September 30, 2016

Michael represented me through the process of my divorce. I had a somewhat complicated situation, divorcing a spouse who was a service member living overseas. Michael did a wonderful job explaining the legal process to me, ensuring that my custody concerns were met, and making sure we came away with the best outcome possible for my children and me. Michael went above and beyond making himself available to me and responding to any of my concerns or questions. Michael was very empathetic and I knew he cared about my situation and wanted to do everything he could to help during a very stressful process.

Laurie
September 30, 2016

Despite the stress that comes naturally with going through divorce, I am extremely grateful that someone recommended Michael Hallas, with Mckinley Irvin, to me. He and his paralegal, Phillip, were extremely professional, responsive, thorough and efficient in helping me get through this process. My questions were always answered in an impressively timely manner, with clear and detailed instructions. I truly feel that they worked above and beyond to save me money and get me to my next life stage as quickly as possible, while providing excellent and sound legal advice. I would highly recommend Mr. Hallas if you are in need of legal services.

Darrek
July 6, 2016

I hired Michael Hallas at McKinley Irvin for a custody case. It was not exactly your normal custody case and odds were not exactly in my favor. Michael worked hard, quick and was very professional. You could tell he cares about his work and isn't a "yes man" type lawyer. I also respected him for his ethical standards. The case did go in my favor but had it not I wouldn't have regretted hiring Michael.

Jessica
June 24, 2016

Michael helped me through a divorce and child custody case. It truly was a battle. He kept me grounded and gave clear perspective. Michael helped me to not get angry and just retaliate when hurtful things were said and done by the other party. He is witty & genuine. Michael has a way of talking to the other lawyer, even when they punch below the belt - standing strong and firm, and eloquent with his words. I highly recommend him. You won't be disappointed.

anonymous
November 13, 2015

Mr. Hallas, took genuine concern for our case considering all of the circumstances surrounding it. He was extremely professional and forthright in all matters surrounding the case. Not only was he a matter of the fact type of guy, he was approachable and listened. It was noticed throughout the course of the case how much Mr. Hallas sacrificed, worked and studied our individual case -- working countless hours on our behalf -- even at the cost of his own time and sacrifice from his family. He is a man of principle with a high moral compass, and great character.

Amy
October 1, 2015

I hired Michael Hallas to assist in the divorce from a very difficult man. Michael listened, empathized and then got me through it quickly and painlessly. Well, as painless as these things can go anyways. His paralegal Noah Zimmerman was also excellent and above par. He would email simply to check up on me and how I was doing. I felt very supported by them and confident of the legal work they were doing on my behalf.

Jolanta
May 5, 2015

I didn't know that there are Divorce Attorneys who fight for you! Honestly. I had an experience of most of them being desperate to make a deal with opposing party and move on. Not Michael! He won't stop until he gets what he wants and that is 100% fair. My family had a horrible experience in being cheated into retainer fees and laughed at that, while told that we won't have fare hearing in Vancouver, WA Clark County. That the party who makes money, will end up paying no matter what... And it was true, until we met and hired Michael. THANK YOU, MICHEAL!!!

Jay
January 9, 2020

I contaced Michael for an opinion on a divorce matter. It was an urgent matter and I needed immediate answers. He is super responsive. Replied to my email within minutes and consulted me late hour of the evening. I highly recommend him.

anonymous
May 16, 2017

I hired Michael upon making the decision to leave a very devious partner. I knew the divorce and related custody, support and parenting plan issues would be likely result in a long and trying process. My goals were to stay out of court and achieve a plan that was in the best interest of my child. It was scary as I knew nothing about family law. I was put at ease the moment I met Michael. He made an effort to connect with me and understand the unique nature of my case. He was clearly a seasoned expert with issues related to family law. The road was indeed long, but ultimately successful. Michael and his assistant were always responsive and I felt as if I was their only client over the course of many months. Further, Michael was incredibly honest and enjoyable to work with. He expertly coached me in my negotiating, giving me confidence and, ultimately, results I was happy with. I also felt assured that if I had to go to court, he would be tenacious in his effort to get the results I cared about. I’ll be honest- it cost a fortune, but securing my child’s best interest was priceless and so worth every penny. I would definitely hire him again!

Amy
January 7, 2017

I put my trust in Michael Hallas and I was not disappointed. Michael has a quick and intuitive intellect. He is approachable and compassionate. He was quick to answer my many questions and was thorough and very patient. Michael's many attributes allowed me to make tough decisions with confidence. My settlement was far more favorable that it would have been had I not hired him. I would definitely recommend Michael Hallas.

anonymous
September 30, 2016

Michael represented me through the process of my divorce. I had a somewhat complicated situation, divorcing a spouse who was a service member living overseas. Michael did a wonderful job explaining the legal process to me, ensuring that my custody concerns were met, and making sure we came away with the best outcome possible for my children and me. Michael went above and beyond making himself available to me and responding to any of my concerns or questions. Michael was very empathetic and I knew he cared about my situation and wanted to do everything he could to help during a very stressful process.

Laurie
September 30, 2016

Despite the stress that comes naturally with going through divorce, I am extremely grateful that someone recommended Michael Hallas, with Mckinley Irvin, to me. He and his paralegal, Phillip, were extremely professional, responsive, thorough and efficient in helping me get through this process. My questions were always answered in an impressively timely manner, with clear and detailed instructions. I truly feel that they worked above and beyond to save me money and get me to my next life stage as quickly as possible, while providing excellent and sound legal advice. I would highly recommend Mr. Hallas if you are in need of legal services.

Darrek
July 6, 2016

I hired Michael Hallas at McKinley Irvin for a custody case. It was not exactly your normal custody case and odds were not exactly in my favor. Michael worked hard, quick and was very professional. You could tell he cares about his work and isn't a "yes man" type lawyer. I also respected him for his ethical standards. The case did go in my favor but had it not I wouldn't have regretted hiring Michael.

Jessica
June 24, 2016

Michael helped me through a divorce and child custody case. It truly was a battle. He kept me grounded and gave clear perspective. Michael helped me to not get angry and just retaliate when hurtful things were said and done by the other party. He is witty & genuine. Michael has a way of talking to the other lawyer, even when they punch below the belt - standing strong and firm, and eloquent with his words. I highly recommend him. You won't be disappointed.

anonymous
November 13, 2015

Mr. Hallas, took genuine concern for our case considering all of the circumstances surrounding it. He was extremely professional and forthright in all matters surrounding the case. Not only was he a matter of the fact type of guy, he was approachable and listened. It was noticed throughout the course of the case how much Mr. Hallas sacrificed, worked and studied our individual case -- working countless hours on our behalf -- even at the cost of his own time and sacrifice from his family. He is a man of principle with a high moral compass, and great character.

Amy
October 1, 2015

I hired Michael Hallas to assist in the divorce from a very difficult man. Michael listened, empathized and then got me through it quickly and painlessly. Well, as painless as these things can go anyways. His paralegal Noah Zimmerman was also excellent and above par. He would email simply to check up on me and how I was doing. I felt very supported by them and confident of the legal work they were doing on my behalf.

Jolanta
May 5, 2015

I didn't know that there are Divorce Attorneys who fight for you! Honestly. I had an experience of most of them being desperate to make a deal with opposing party and move on. Not Michael! He won't stop until he gets what he wants and that is 100% fair. My family had a horrible experience in being cheated into retainer fees and laughed at that, while told that we won't have fare hearing in Vancouver, WA Clark County. That the party who makes money, will end up paying no matter what... And it was true, until we met and hired Michael. THANK YOU, MICHEAL!!!

Jay
January 9, 2020

I contaced Michael for an opinion on a divorce matter. It was an urgent matter and I needed immediate answers. He is super responsive. Replied to my email within minutes and consulted me late hour of the evening. I highly recommend him.

anonymous
May 16, 2017

I hired Michael upon making the decision to leave a very devious partner. I knew the divorce and related custody, support and parenting plan issues would be likely result in a long and trying process. My goals were to stay out of court and achieve a plan that was in the best interest of my child. It was scary as I knew nothing about family law. I was put at ease the moment I met Michael. He made an effort to connect with me and understand the unique nature of my case. He was clearly a seasoned expert with issues related to family law. The road was indeed long, but ultimately successful. Michael and his assistant were always responsive and I felt as if I was their only client over the course of many months. Further, Michael was incredibly honest and enjoyable to work with. He expertly coached me in my negotiating, giving me confidence and, ultimately, results I was happy with. I also felt assured that if I had to go to court, he would be tenacious in his effort to get the results I cared about. I’ll be honest- it cost a fortune, but securing my child’s best interest was priceless and so worth every penny. I would definitely hire him again!

Amy
January 7, 2017

I put my trust in Michael Hallas and I was not disappointed. Michael has a quick and intuitive intellect. He is approachable and compassionate. He was quick to answer my many questions and was thorough and very patient. Michael's many attributes allowed me to make tough decisions with confidence. My settlement was far more favorable that it would have been had I not hired him. I would definitely recommend Michael Hallas.

anonymous
September 30, 2016

Michael represented me through the process of my divorce. I had a somewhat complicated situation, divorcing a spouse who was a service member living overseas. Michael did a wonderful job explaining the legal process to me, ensuring that my custody concerns were met, and making sure we came away with the best outcome possible for my children and me. Michael went above and beyond making himself available to me and responding to any of my concerns or questions. Michael was very empathetic and I knew he cared about my situation and wanted to do everything he could to help during a very stressful process.

Laurie
September 30, 2016

Despite the stress that comes naturally with going through divorce, I am extremely grateful that someone recommended Michael Hallas, with Mckinley Irvin, to me. He and his paralegal, Phillip, were extremely professional, responsive, thorough and efficient in helping me get through this process. My questions were always answered in an impressively timely manner, with clear and detailed instructions. I truly feel that they worked above and beyond to save me money and get me to my next life stage as quickly as possible, while providing excellent and sound legal advice. I would highly recommend Mr. Hallas if you are in need of legal services.

Darrek
July 6, 2016

I hired Michael Hallas at McKinley Irvin for a custody case. It was not exactly your normal custody case and odds were not exactly in my favor. Michael worked hard, quick and was very professional. You could tell he cares about his work and isn't a "yes man" type lawyer. I also respected him for his ethical standards. The case did go in my favor but had it not I wouldn't have regretted hiring Michael.

Jessica
June 24, 2016

Michael helped me through a divorce and child custody case. It truly was a battle. He kept me grounded and gave clear perspective. Michael helped me to not get angry and just retaliate when hurtful things were said and done by the other party. He is witty & genuine. Michael has a way of talking to the other lawyer, even when they punch below the belt - standing strong and firm, and eloquent with his words. I highly recommend him. You won't be disappointed.

anonymous
November 13, 2015

Mr. Hallas, took genuine concern for our case considering all of the circumstances surrounding it. He was extremely professional and forthright in all matters surrounding the case. Not only was he a matter of the fact type of guy, he was approachable and listened. It was noticed throughout the course of the case how much Mr. Hallas sacrificed, worked and studied our individual case -- working countless hours on our behalf -- even at the cost of his own time and sacrifice from his family. He is a man of principle with a high moral compass, and great character.

Amy
October 1, 2015

I hired Michael Hallas to assist in the divorce from a very difficult man. Michael listened, empathized and then got me through it quickly and painlessly. Well, as painless as these things can go anyways. His paralegal Noah Zimmerman was also excellent and above par. He would email simply to check up on me and how I was doing. I felt very supported by them and confident of the legal work they were doing on my behalf.

Jolanta
May 5, 2015

I didn't know that there are Divorce Attorneys who fight for you! Honestly. I had an experience of most of them being desperate to make a deal with opposing party and move on. Not Michael! He won't stop until he gets what he wants and that is 100% fair. My family had a horrible experience in being cheated into retainer fees and laughed at that, while told that we won't have fare hearing in Vancouver, WA Clark County. That the party who makes money, will end up paying no matter what... And it was true, until we met and hired Michael. THANK YOU, MICHEAL!!!