About Wesley Fitzwater

My practice emphasizes the legal and crisis issues faced by the elderly and their families, including incapacity, guardianship, long-term care, and end-of-life concerns. In my 30+ years of practice, I have truly enjoyed the relationships I have developed with my clients and their families. I have the privilege of helping and protecting them – often at one of the most difficult times in their lives. I count myself very fortunate because I like my job. I enjoy the wonderful group of attorneys and staff I work with every day. Most importantly, I get to help clients who need and appreciate my help. It doesn’t get much better than that!

Born and raised in Oregon, I come from a family of attorneys with both my father and grandfather serving in the profession. I hold a B.S. in Psychology and Sociology from Willamette University in Salem and a J.D. from the University of Puget Sound School of Law in Tacoma, Washington.

I am a strong believer in the philosophy of “doing well by doing good.” I enjoy educating my community about elder law issues and am a frequent speaker to senior groups, medical and social workers, financial professionals, attorneys and community groups. I am an author and instructor on topics including long-term care and Medicaid planning, incapacity, guardianships and conservatorships, estate planning, legal ethics and professionalism. I am also the co-editor of the Oregon State Bar publication entitled The Elder Law Handbook, a reference book for Oregon attorneys.

I am a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys. I also currently serve on the Interdisciplinary Committee for Adult Protection in Multnomah County working to protect seniors. I am the past Chair of the Elder Law Executive Committee and the past Chair of the Estate Planning Executive Committee of the Oregon State Bar. I am also a member of the Guardianship/Conservatorship Association of Oregon.