Founding Attorney
Thomas Hackett is a legal strategist and advisor to families and business owners who founded NW Legacy Law in 2014 to provide estate planning and probate services in a more personal, compassionate way. Since 2010, he has worked with parents, grandparents and business owners across Washington and Oregon to preserve what matters most, family harmony, financial security and lasting legacy. His approach centers on keeping things simple because he believes fancy legal words aren't helpful and neither are explanations that are more complicated than the question.
Thomas's practice covers the full spectrum of estate and trust work including designing wills and trusts, administering trusts, helping families through probate, and assisting business owners with succession plans, charitable giving and asset protection. He takes the time to educate clients about potential pitfalls and opportunities, then develops strategies that align with their goals. His goal is to make the legal process straightforward and empowering, not intimidating. Thomas and his wife, Tara, are the proud parents of two energetic children. The family enjoys regional outdoor activities including skiing at Mt. Hood, watching Tara brave the cold Oregon coast to surf, and spending time in Hood River as Thomas kiteboards.
Practice Areas
- Estate Planning
- Probate and Estate Administration
- Trust Administration
- Business Succession Planning
- Charitable Giving
- Asset Protection
- Tax Law
Admissions
- Washington State Bar
- Oregon State Bar
Education
- University of Washington School of Law
Juris Doctor - Seattle University
Bachelor of Arts, Economics
Awards
- Super Lawyers Rising Star (2019) - Honor awarded to fewer than 2.5% of attorneys
- Best in Business for Law Firms (2014–2019) - Vancouver Business Journal
- Best of Clark County for Lawyers (2015) - The Columbian
- Start-Up Business of the Year (2014) - Business Growth Awards
Press
- Featured by the Vancouver Business Journal as "Best in Business for Law Firms" for six consecutive years (2014–2019)
- Named Best of Clark County for Lawyers by The Columbian in 2015
- Recognized as Start-Up Business of the Year in 2014 by the Business Growth Awards
Community
- President, Board of Directors - Vancouver Farmers Market (2013-2016)
- Board Member - JDRF Oregon and SW Washington Chapter (2015-2016)
