Portland, OR family law attorney Zach Fruchtengarten talks about the most rewarding aspect of his practice, the most common piece of advice he gives to clients, and his background & experience. He finds one of the most rewarding aspects of practicing family law to be the ability to help people and witness the immediate impact of that assistance. Many clients remain in touch long after their cases conclude, sending holiday cards or messages of gratitude. They appreciate that he was there to provide objective advice, guide them through a difficult time, and support them in securing the best possible outcome. Few areas of law, he notes, allow attorneys to have that kind of lasting personal impact on their clients.

He frequently advises clients to follow the Golden Rule—treat others as they would want to be treated. Because family law cases often involve high levels of conflict, he stresses the importance of avoiding entrenched disputes and unnecessary hostility. By encouraging clients to take the high road, he helps them preserve their mental well-being and improve the chances of achieving a favorable resolution. Maintaining an even temperament, he explains, benefits both the client and the outcome of the case.

Interestingly, his path to family law was not what he originally anticipated. With a strong background in finance, he earned both his law degree and a master’s degree in business, concentrating on finance and accounting. Before entering family law, he worked at a major accounting firm, focusing on state and local tax consulting and compliance. That experience provided him with advanced exposure to financial analysis and tax matters, giving him skills that most new attorneys take years to acquire. When he transitioned into family law, those skills allowed him to contribute immediately to complex cases, reviewing financial records, analyzing tax returns, and supporting senior partners on high-stakes matters.