David Bean has focused almost exclusively on family law since he began practicing law in Oregon in 2001. His experience lends itself to assisting clients with a variety of issues. David joined the firm as an associate in 2004, and became a partner in 2008. As a lawyer, as in life, David’s goal is to leave people better off than he found them. While legal matters can be taxing, David’s awareness of his clients’ needs and his ability to communicate serve his clients well. David is grateful for the referrals he receives from his current and former clients. These, along with the many referrals he receives from lawyers, counselors, CPAs, judges, and friends are a testament to the fine work David does.
David has the tools to guide his clients towards resolution in a number of ways. As a last resort, David is an experienced litigator who enjoys providing the court with necessary and sufficient information to make decisions. More often than not, like most divorce lawyers, David helps his client settle their cases because trusting even excellent and well-meaning judges with your destiny is very risky. In the rare situations when cases need to be litigated, David and his team are always well prepared and effective. To settle cases, David trained to and became an adept negotiator. He studied to and became a mediator, which provided him deeper insight to achieve reasonable solutions without the many added costs of litigation. David also joined a select group of attorneys who are trained in collaborative divorce. He enjoys collaborative practice and appreciates being able to offer a variety of options to his clients. Family law matters are often amongst the toughest challenges people face. David welcomes the opportunity to act as your advocate, guide, and resource.
While not practicing law or participating in the community, David enjoys time with his wife, daughters, and dog, Tilly. He has advanced ranks in both kung-fu and karate, enjoys tennis, golf, and running as well as exploring Portland’s many great restaurants and tasting Oregon Pinots.
Legal Articles and Publications:
- “You May Know Me…,” Multnomah Lawyer, October 2010
- Co-Author of Parenting Plans: A Proposal for Oregon. Oregon State Bar Family Law Newsletter, 2006
- Co-Author of Austin and Austin Compensatory Spousal Support and the Fatal “Or”. Oregon State Bar Family Law Newsletter, 2004
Speaking Engagements:
- Oregon Association of Collaborative Professionals, Panelist, 2019
- The Robe as Sword and Shield: Part 2 – Family Law, MBA CLE Program, 2017
- “When is a Settlement a Settlement?”, Oregon Law Institute, 23rd Annual Family Law Seminar, 2010
- Learning the Ropes: How to Succeed as an Associate at a Mid-Size Firm
- What You Need to Know About Pre-Nuptial Agreements
- Professionalism for Young Attorneys, MBA CLE Program, 2006
Professional Organizations:
- Multnomah Bar Association
- Court Liaison Committee, Member
- Executive Committee, Board of Directors
- Mid-Sized Firm Roundtable, Founder, Past Chair
- Membership Committee, Past Chair
- Clackamas County Bar Association
- Multnomah County Family Law Group, Past Chair
- Owen M. Panner Inns of Court
- Executive Committee, Program Chair & Past President
- Oregon Academy of Family Law Practitioners
- Oregon Family Institute, Board of Directors
- Oregon Association of Collaborative Professionals, Member
Community Activities:
- Multnomah Bar Foundation, Board of Directors, 2021 – Present
- Multnomah County Family Law Group
- Board of Directors of the Young Lawyers, Past President
- Campaign for Equal Justice Advisory Committee, Volunteer
- Jefferson High School, Mock Trial Coach, 2003-2005
- Legal Aid Services of Oregon’s Domestic Violence Project, Volunteer
- Lewis & Clark Law School, Class Agent
- Pro Bono Committee of Legal Aid Services of Oregon & The Oregon Law Center, Former Chair
