William Dussault

Lawyers Near MeWashingtonKing CountySeattleDowntown Seattle2nd Avenue

801 2nd Ave #1200, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

5.0

I have worked with Bill Dussault on numerous cases over the last 30 years and find him to be a knowledgeable, ethical, compassionate and outstanding attorney. I have referred dozens of people to him over the years and have heard only words of praise for his work and demeanor. I highly recommend Bill Dussault.

Simon Forgette
  • Overview

William Dussault Introduce

Hello, Washington residents! When it comes to highly specialized and compassionate legal advocacy, particularly in the complex realms of disability and elder law, few names resonate as strongly as William "Bill" Dussault in Seattle. For decades, Bill Dussault has been a trailblazer, dedicating his career to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities and seniors, and helping families navigate crucial planning decisions. This article will delve into his extensive experience, the comprehensive services he offers, and why he comes so highly recommended by those who have benefited from his unparalleled expertise right here in the Washington region.

William L.E. Dussault is a distinguished and highly respected attorney based in Seattle, Washington, with a career spanning over 50 years. He is widely recognized as a pioneer in the field of disability and elder law. His contributions include originating the concept of the Special Needs Trust in 1973, a crucial tool for financial planning for individuals with disabilities, and being instrumental in the passage of the first state Mandatory Special Education Law, "Education for All," in 1971.

After establishing the preeminent Dussault Law Group, a firm focused entirely on disability and elder law, he sold his interest in 2016. In 2017, he joined Aiken, St. Louis & Siljeg, P.S., a firm established in 1959, to ensure his long-standing values and commitment to clients and the disability community would continue through another generation of dedicated attorneys.

Throughout his extensive career, Bill Dussault has earned a reputation for being exceptionally knowledgeable, ethical, compassionate, and an outstanding attorney. His practice is deeply rooted in advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities, ensuring they can achieve equal rights and that families can provide life-long care for their loved ones. His long-standing expertise and unwavering commitment to client well-being have garnered him widespread praise and numerous high recommendations from clients and peers alike.

William Dussault's office is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Seattle, providing easy access for clients throughout Washington State. You can find his practice at:

801 2nd Ave #1200, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

This central Seattle address places the office within a prominent building, easily reachable by various modes of transportation. For those utilizing public transit, numerous bus routes and light rail stations are within a short walking distance, making it convenient for individuals traveling from different parts of the city and surrounding areas. For clients driving, there are multiple parking garages and street parking options available in the vibrant downtown district, though it's always advisable to plan for parking in advance. The office's location also benefits from its proximity to federal and state courthouses, government agencies, and other essential legal and professional resources, which can be advantageous in handling complex legal matters. The professional and welcoming environment of a downtown law office ensures a comfortable and discreet setting for consultations, reflecting the firm's commitment to client convenience and service.

William Dussault's practice at Aiken, St. Louis & Siljeg, P.S. offers a highly specialized and comprehensive range of legal services, primarily focused on disability law, elder law, and estate planning, reflecting his lifelong dedication to these areas.

  • Special Needs and Other Trusts: Expertise in drafting, administering, and litigating special needs trusts, which are crucial for preserving eligibility for public benefits for individuals with disabilities, as well as other types of trusts for various estate planning needs.
  • Estate Planning: Comprehensive estate planning for estates of all sizes, including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, tailored to protect assets and ensure clients' wishes are honored, especially for families with disabled members.
  • Elder and Disability Law: Addressing a broad spectrum of legal issues affecting seniors and individuals with disabilities, including long-term care planning, Medicaid eligibility, and protection against financial exploitation.
  • Guardianship and Trust Establishment and Administration: Guiding clients through the complex process of establishing, administering, and litigating guardianships for vulnerable adults, as well as the administration of trusts.
  • Public Benefits: Assisting clients with understanding eligibility for and accessing various public benefits, such as Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Medicaid, and handling appeals.
  • Probate: Guiding executors and families through the legal process of settling an estate after a death, including asset distribution and managing any disputes.
  • Special Education Law: Advocating for the rights of children with disabilities to receive appropriate education services under federal and state laws, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
  • Personal Injury Settlement Planning and Consultation: Providing expert advice on how to structure personal injury settlements to protect public benefit eligibility and ensure long-term financial security for individuals with disabilities.
  • Vulnerable Adult Protection Proceedings: Representing clients in actions brought under Washington's Vulnerable Adult Act (RCW 74.34) to protect against abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation.

William Dussault’s career is marked by numerous distinctive features and highlights that underscore his pioneering spirit, profound expertise, and unwavering dedication to his clients and the broader disability community.

  • Pioneering Legal Contributions: Bill Dussault is renowned for originating the Special Needs Trust in 1973, a revolutionary tool that has since become a cornerstone of financial planning for individuals with disabilities nationwide. He was also instrumental in passing the "Education for All" law in 1971, which mandated public education for all children for the first time in history, showcasing his foundational impact on disability rights law.

  • Decades of Experience: With over 50 years of practice since his admission to the Washington State Bar in 1972, he possesses an unparalleled depth of knowledge and experience in elder and disability law. This extensive tenure means he has seen the evolution of these laws firsthand and understands their nuances.

  • Exceptional Peer and Client Recommendations: As evidenced by the provided testimonials, Bill Dussault is consistently described by peers and clients as "knowledgeable, ethical, compassionate and outstanding." Recommendations are given "without reservation," highlighting a rare level of trust and satisfaction based on his work and demeanor. Phrases like "insight and compassion" and explanations that are "patiently and well" underscore his client-centered approach.

  • Admitted to Practice at the Highest Levels: His admission to practice in the State of Washington, Colorado, the United States Federal District Court, and the United States Supreme Court (1982) speaks to his extensive legal qualifications and ability to handle cases at all judicial levels.

  • Thought Leadership and Education: Bill Dussault is a frequent presenter at local and national attorney seminars and symposiums, sharing his expertise on ethics, malpractice in personal injury settlements, public benefits coordination, and various aspects of disability law. He has also served as an adjunct professor at the University of Washington School of Law and School of Nursing.

  • Active Involvement in Advocacy: He has been deeply involved with numerous state and national groups concerned with legal issues impacting persons with disabilities, serving as counsel to organizations like TASH and holding leadership roles with the American Bar Association Family Law Committee and the Brain Injury Association of America. He is also the founding president of the Washington Chapter of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA).

  • Recognized Influence and Awards: His contributions have been widely recognized, including being named one of the top 150 lawyers in Washington by Seattle Magazine, one of the top lawyers by Washington State Law and Politics, awarded the Butch Blum award as one of four most influential lawyers in Washington in 2003, and receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award by the ARC of King County, among other distinctions.

For a highly specialized and experienced attorney like William Dussault, the concept of "promotions" or "special offers" in the traditional consumer sense is not typically applicable. His value proposition lies in his unparalleled expertise, decades of experience, and the profound impact he has had on the fields of disability and elder law.

However, clients benefit significantly from:

  • Initial Consultations: While not explicitly stated as free, it is standard practice for attorneys in specialized fields to offer initial consultations. This allows potential clients to discuss their case, understand the scope of work, and learn about the firm's approach without immediate financial commitment for extended services. You should inquire about their consultation policy when contacting the office.

  • Value of Expertise: Engaging an attorney with Bill Dussault's background means clients are benefiting from a wealth of knowledge that can lead to more favorable and efficient outcomes in complex legal situations. This expertise, while not a "discount," often translates into significant long-term financial and personal benefits for clients, far outweighing the cost of legal services.

  • Educational Resources: As a frequent presenter and active advocate, Bill Dussault contributes to various educational seminars and public information initiatives. While these are not direct "offers" for legal services, they provide valuable opportunities for individuals and families to gain critical insights into disability and elder law, sometimes at no or low cost.

Prospective clients should contact the firm directly to discuss their specific needs and the fee structure for the specialized services provided.

If you are in Washington and seeking expert legal counsel in disability law, elder law, or estate planning, you can contact William Dussault's office at Aiken, St. Louis & Siljeg, P.S. using the following information:

Address: 801 2nd Ave #1200, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

Phone: (206) 624-2650

Mobile Phone: +1 206-624-2650

It is recommended to call ahead to schedule an appointment or to inquire further about his specific services and availability. The team will be able to guide you on how to best proceed with your legal inquiry.

For Washington locals, William Dussault is an extraordinarily suitable and impactful choice for legal counsel, particularly for families navigating the intricate challenges associated with disability and elder law. His unparalleled experience, spanning over five decades, coupled with his role as a pioneer in developing key legal frameworks like the Special Needs Trust, means clients are receiving guidance from one of the most knowledgeable and respected attorneys in the field. The glowing testimonials from long-term clients and peers underscore his ethical practice, compassionate demeanor, and consistent ability to achieve positive outcomes. Having an attorney of his caliber, whose work has literally shaped the legal landscape for persons with disabilities, available right here in Seattle, provides immense peace of mind and strategic advantage. For anyone in Washington seeking expert, compassionate, and effective legal representation in disability, elder, or estate planning matters, William Dussault stands as an outstanding local resource.

William Dussault Location

801 2nd Ave #1200, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

William Dussault

801 2nd Ave #1200

Law Offices of Eric Brian Johnson, PCLaw Offices of Eric Brian Johnson, PC

1201 2nd Ave #900

Samuel Meyler, Attorney at LawSamuel Meyler, Attorney at Law

801 2nd Ave #1415

Mary Anne Vance Law OfficeMary Anne Vance Law Office

801 2nd Ave #1415

Johnson Beard & Trueb, PCJohnson Beard & Trueb, PC

801 2nd Ave #800

Mark R. DerricottMark R. Derricott

811 1st Ave

S.L. Pitts PCS.L. Pitts PC

719 2nd Ave UNIT 520

Colvin + Hallett LawColvin + Hallett Law

719 2nd Ave #1450

Seattle Divorce Lawyers u2013 Twyford LawSeattle Divorce Lawyers u2013 Twyford Law

814 2nd Ave

Higuera & VanDerhoef PLLCHiguera & VanDerhoef PLLC

705 2nd Ave #610

Frank Freed Subit & Thomas LLPFrank Freed Subit & Thomas LLP

705 2nd Ave #1200

MacDonald Hoague & Bayless (MHB)MacDonald Hoague & Bayless (MHB)

705 2nd Ave UNIT 1500

Kiviat Criminal DefenseKiviat Criminal Defense

Hoge Building

© Leaflet © OpenStreetMap contributors

Reviews

I have worked with Bill Dussault on numerous cases over the last 30 years and find him to be a knowledgeable, ethical, compassionate and outstanding attorney. I have referred dozens of people to him over the years and have heard only words of praise for his work and demeanor. I highly recommend Bill Dussault.

Nov 02, 2017 · Simon Forgette

We have relied on Bill's expertise, insight and compassion in our cases involving disabled people and trusts for many, many years. He is thorough and explains things patiently and well. We recommend Bill without reservation.

Nov 01, 2017 · Jan Nevler

Contact Us or Give Feedback(William Dussault)

Thank you for visiting our website! If you have any suggestions or thoughts, please share them—we value your feedback!

Lawyers Near Me

Law Offices of Eric Brian Johnson, PC

Law Offices of Eric Brian Johnson, PC

1201 2nd Ave #900, Seattle, WA 98101, USA

Samuel Meyler, Attorney at Law

Samuel Meyler, Attorney at Law

801 2nd Ave #1415, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

Mary Anne Vance Law Office

Mary Anne Vance Law Office

801 2nd Ave #1415, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

Johnson Beard & Trueb, PC

Johnson Beard & Trueb, PC

801 2nd Ave #800, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

Mark R. Derricott

Mark R. Derricott

811 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

S.L. Pitts PC

S.L. Pitts PC

719 2nd Ave UNIT 520, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

Colvin + Hallett Law

Colvin + Hallett Law

719 2nd Ave #1450, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

Seattle Divorce Lawyers u2013 Twyford Law

Seattle Divorce Lawyers u2013 Twyford Law

814 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

Higuera & VanDerhoef PLLC

Higuera & VanDerhoef PLLC

705 2nd Ave #610, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

Frank Freed Subit & Thomas LLP

Frank Freed Subit & Thomas LLP

705 2nd Ave #1200, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

MacDonald Hoague & Bayless (MHB)

MacDonald Hoague & Bayless (MHB)

705 2nd Ave UNIT 1500, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

Kiviat Criminal Defense

Kiviat Criminal Defense

Hoge Building, 705 2nd Ave #1111, Seattle, WA 98104, USA