Law Office of Diane Sweet

Protecting the Rights of the Accused

This lawyer is licensed to practice in Washington and has no record of discipline from the Washington bar association.*

Firm Overview

My firm concentrates primarily on misdemeanor and felony criminal defense. My Vancouver, WA law practice was started in 2006 when I moved to the area. I began by representing clients pro bono and volunteering with the Clark County Volunteer Lawyers Program. My office at that time was located in my home and I often met clients at the nearby coffee shop. As my practice grew, I needed more space and privacy for my clients. Soon I moved my office to a building across from the county courthouse conveniently located in downtown Vancouver, Washington.

Example cases

A felony client's felony points and sentence were reduced after his prior convictions were held to be "same criminal conduct".

Main Office

Main
712 W Evergreen Blvd
Vancouver WA 98660

Phone

(360) 718-8957

Fax

(360)735-7938

Websites

http://www.dianesweetattorney.com

Fees

Free Initial Consultation?

Yes, 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Services Offered For Fixed Fees?

My services are based on a flat fee and are determined on a case-by-case basis.

Hourly Rates

$200 per hour, usually not applicable because of flat fee.

Office Information

Office Hours

Monday through Friday
8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Emergency After Hours

How did your firm decide on the primary area of practice(s)?

I chose criminal defense because protecting the rights of an accused client is more important to me and more enjoyable than engaging in civil litigation.

What is your firm's point of view regarding clients educating themselves on legal issues?

I have found that a basic understanding of the legal system and legal issues pertaining to cases empowers clients and makes the court process less stressful. An informed client is better able to assist counsel and ask the necessary questions.

Is your firm willing to review documents prepared by clients?

I am always willing to review documents prepared by my clients.

Is your firm willing to coach clients who want to represent themselves?

I have helped individuals represent themselves with success. I will consider it on a case-by-case basis.

Diane Sweet

Prior to moving to Vancouver, WA I worked for the National Park Service in Yosemite National Park legal office as a paralegal on misdemeanor cases that occurred in the park. I was also a park ranger working on the Resource Stewardship for the Protection Rangers course in resource education.

I volunteer with the Red Cross and work with the homeless. I find that helping people who are in crisis prepares me for dealing with the situations my clients are facing.

My strengths are my patience and tenacity when dealing with prolonged cases and difficult circumstances. I believe in setting goals and working diligently with unrelenting hard work to achieve the preferred outcome.

Personal interests:

Fitness training, traveling, and attending concerts.

License

Bar Number: 35881
Washington , 2004

Education

University of Oregon School of Law
Juris Doctorate , 1990
Eugene, OR
Jessup Cup International Law Moot Court
Oregon State University
Master of Science , 1979
Corvallis, OR
Fish Disease Research
Oregon State University
Bachelor of Science , 1977
Corvallis, OR
Fisheries and Wildlife

* Nolo has confirmed that every member attorney has a valid license and is in good standing with the state agency that licenses lawyers. Any past disbarments and suspensions (with possible exceptions for minor violations or nonpayment of dues, in our discretion) will be indicated accordingly in the badge. Member attorneys are required to notify Nolo immediately if they become the subject of any disciplinary action by any state licensing agency.