Michael J. Longyear

Michael J. Longyear is a highly respected attorney with over 30 years of experience in estate planning, trust and probate administration, elder law, and guardianship. He has dedicated his career to guiding individuals, families, and businesses through complex legal matters, ensuring they make informed decisions regarding their financial futures. His legal practice encompasses personal and estate planning, fiduciary litigation, business management services, minor settlements, and real estate matters.

Michael’s academic background is extensive, with degrees that provide a strong foundation in law and business. He earned a B.A. from Eisenhower College in 1975, followed by an M.A.T. from Colgate University in 1977. He then obtained his J.D. from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law in 1983, equipping him with the expertise to navigate the complexities of estate and elder law.

Since his admission to the Maryland Bar in 1984 and the Washington Bar in 1989, Michael has played a vital role in assisting clients with estate planning, wealth transfer strategies, and guardianship matters. He has served as a Certified Professional Guardian. He has been recognized for his expertise in guardianship law, previously serving on the Washington Supreme Court Certified Professional Guardian Board from 2001 to 2008. He is also a board member of the Washington Association of Professional Guardians.

Michael J. Longyear’s numerous leadership roles show Michael’s dedication to the legal community. He is a past chair of the Washington State Bar Association’s Elder Law Section. He has served on the King County Bar Association’s Real Property, Probate & Trust Section and has been actively involved with Northwest Family Business Advisors and the Estate Planning Council of Seattle.

Michael’s contributions extend beyond legal practice through publications and speaking engagements, educating fellow professionals on estate and probate law. He has been consistently recognized as a Super Lawyer from 2001-2010 and 2014-2024 and holds the AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, demonstrating his commitment to excellence in estate and elder law.

Law Office Affiliations

• Member, Reed Longyear Malnati Corwin Burnett, PLLC
• Member, King County Bar Association
• Member, Estate Planning Council of Seattle
• Member, Washington State Bar Association
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, Virginia Bar Association (Elder Law, Taxation, Wills, Trusts and Estates)
• Member, Washington Association of Professional Guardians
• Member, Washington Planned Giving Council
• Member, Northwest Family Business Advisors

Licensed State

• Washington

Education

• University of Pittsburgh School of Law
  Juris Degree (JD)
• Babcock Graduate School of Management
  Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
• Eisenhower College
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges