Zach Santos has many qualities that make him a talented attorney: his ability to think critically and creatively, write well, advocate orally, and perhaps most important to the job: a genuine desire to help regular people with irregular problems. His path to family law, however, was not one that was inspired by movies, mentorship, or intellectual aptitude. Rather, his desire to pursue family law was formed through his faith, and specifically the teachings of James 1:27. From this passage, Zach felt empowered and led to speak for those who may struggle to speak for themselves; to be an advocate for children and parents who find themselves caught in the emotional, financial, and unsteady turmoil of family law cases. Through his career, he has found an immense amount of fulfillment in being able to help his clients to the finish line and to the next, more hopeful, chapter of their lives.

Zach is a Pacific Northwest native, having spent much of his life living between Gresham, Portland, and Bend. He has, however, spent an accumulated 15 years enjoying life in California, Maryland, Florida, Washington, Washington D.C., and Argentina which, combined with his Puerto Rican heritage, has allowed him to master basic Spanish. Despite his extensive travel, Zach remains steadfast in his devotion to Oregon—as he says, one can never run out of opportunities to participate in world-class outdoor experiences year-round, or tip-flight brews in the craft beer scene in and around Bend.

When not working, Zach has no trouble staying busy. You might find him hiking, camping, enjoying poetry and comedy, playing team sports, volunteering at church, seeking out the best iced coffee that Oregon has to offer (the most important meal of the day, according to Santos), or enjoying the company of his two adored cats. As an avid sports fan, Zach enjoys following along with the Portland Trail Blazers, Seattle Mariners, and New York Jets and Giants who, according to Santos, “Demonstrate unshakeable perseverance through their inevitable futility.” Asked about a quote that inspires him, Zach references Dr. Seuss, who he believes had a profound impact in encouraging children to embrace their unique individuality. His favorite quote supports this observation, which reads: “Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Your than You.”

Education: Juris Doctor from Lewis & Clark Law School; B.S. in Business Administration and B.A. in Spanish from Walla Walla University.

States Barred: Oregon state courts