About
Nicole Deering is a founding partner and owner at DBMA Family Law Group in Portland, Oregon. With 25 years of experience, Nicole focuses her practice on resolving complex family law matters through divorce litigation, child custody, spousal support, collaborative divorce, and mediation. She is known for her client-centered approach and commitment to achieving practical and sustainable outcomes for families.
Nicole earned her B.S. from Portland State University’s Honors College in 1991. She received her J.D. from Lewis & Clark Northwestern School of Law in 1994.
Nicole launched her legal career with Oregon Legal Services, advocating for survivors of domestic violence and providing critical legal aid. Since then, she has continued to serve Oregon families at Koch & Deering, through her own law practice, and as a shareholder at Schulte Anderson. With experience in both public service and private family law practice, Nicole offers a unique blend of legal insight and compassionate support for the complex legal and emotional challenges families face.
Nicole is a strong advocate for the “least harm” approach in family law, prioritizing the well-being of children and the long-term emotional and financial stability of all parties. She is especially skilled at guiding clients through family transitions using collaborative and mediated solutions, while also being fully prepared to litigate when necessary.
Nicole Deering is admitted to the Oregon State Bar and is an active member of several legal organizations, including the Oregon Academy of Family Law Practitioners, Oregon Women Lawyers, and the Multnomah Bar Association. She also participates in the Oregon Academy of Collaborative Professionals and Portland Collaborative Divorce. At DBMA Family Law Group, Nicole continues to provide thoughtful, high-quality legal guidance to individuals navigating some of life’s most challenging changes.
Law Office Affiliations
- Owner & Founding Partner, DBMA Family Law Group
- Former Attorney, Koch & Deering
- Former Attorney, Deering Law Office
- Former Shareholder, Schulte Anderson
- Former Legal Aid Attorney, Oregon Legal Services
- Member, Oregon State Bar, Family Law Section
- Member, Oregon Women Lawyers Association
- Member, Multnomah Bar Association
- Member, Oregon Academy of Family Law Practitioners
- Member, Portland Women’s Foundation
- Member, Oregon Academy of Collaborative Professionals
- Member, Portland Collaborative Divorce
Licensed State
- Oregon
Education
- Lewis & Clark Northwestern Law School
Juris Doctor (J.D.) - Portland State University
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
Awards & Badges




- Adoption
- Alimony
- Child Abuse & Neglect
- Child Custody
- Child Support
- Divorce & Separation
- Domestic Violence
- Marriage & Prenuptial Agreements
- Appeals
- Litigation
- Guardianship




