Janice Langbehn

Janice Langbehn brings a unique perspective to her work as a client advocate. She spent her first career as a state Child Protective Services Social Worker and Supervisor, which strengthened her commitment to aiding families in navigating the complexities of family law. She is adept at guiding her clients through issues of custody, stepparent or dependency adoption, dissolutions, and minor guardianships. Her skill as a litigator and mediator ensures the best outcome for each client she serves.

Janice prides herself on her diverse experience and education. She earned a master’s degree in Social Work and Public Administration while she was working full time for the State. At the same time, she and her late wife, Lisa Marie Pond, adopted four foster children and fostered 25 others. After retiring from the State, Janice began her second career as a Court-Appointed Special Advocate and paid Guardian ad Litem, so she could continue her advocacy work for families.

It was the death of her wife in 2007 that changed the direction of Janice’s life. She began to speak out for fair visitation rights for LGBT families. Her work was recognized by Lambda Legal and the Human Rights Campaign, and led to the awarding in 2011 of two significant honors for her efforts to secure hospital visitation rights for same-sex couples throughout the United States: the National Liberty Award from Lambda Legal, and the Presidential Citizen’s Medal—the second highest civilian honor—by President Barack Obama in a ceremony at the White House.

After all her kids were grown, Janice began her third career, completing her Juris Doctor at Seattle University School of Law in 2018. Family law was an obvious choice given Janice’s strength, skills, and experience. Janice sits on the WSBA Diversity Committee; she is also a member of the Tacoma Pierce County Bar, King County Bar, Thurston County Bar, and QLaw and Family Law Sections of the Washington State Bar.

When you meet Janice, you will also meet Lexi, her service dog. Lexi was trained by Canine Companions to complete nearly 40 tasks for Janice. However, Janice’s clients say the best part is just being around Lexi during the stress of court.

When not in court, you will find Janice cheering on her favorite players, Tacoma’s National Women’s Soccer League team, OL Reign. You can also find her reading a mystery or thriller novel, or spending time with family.

Awards

• Rising Stars – Super Lawyers (2021)

• Presidential Citizens Medal – President of the United States (2011)

• Liberty Award – Lambda Legal Defense Fund (2011)

• National Equity Award – Human Rights Campaign (2010)