Samantha Benton is a 4th generation Hood River resident. She is an experienced family law and estate planning attorney who has background as an advocate in both the public and private sectors. With calm assurance, she helps families and clients come up with practical solutions to the big issues impacting their lives.
Samantha graduated from the University of Oregon School of Law in 2012 with a Certificate of Completion in Estate Planning. Prior to joining McCarthy Law she was an associate at a well-respected family law and estate practice firm in Portland where she focused on divorce, child custody and child support. After graduating from college in 2001, Samantha worked in various federal and state government branches. She also has experience working for the Oregon Judicial Department as well as at the Oregon Legislature, where she served as Chief of Staff to State Representative Scott Bruun from 2007-2009.
Family Law Attorney
Samantha Benton has worked on complex family law cases such as high-conflict child custody cases, negotiating parenting time agreements, creating parenting plans, and preparing for and appearing at trial. Samantha also enjoys her appointed cases as an advocate for child clients. Early in her career, Samantha worked for the Oregon Judicial Department as a Family Law Program Manager. During her tenure there, she educated staff and judges on changes in family and probate law and organized a two-day family law conference. She is a strong advocate for her clients, helping to ensure they get the outcomes they deserve.
Estate Planning
Samantha also assists clients in estate planning and probate matters. Samantha enjoys helping families and individuals plan for their future. She believes this helps alleviate stress during difficult times and ensures that personal wishes are honored
Oregon and Local Community Involvement
Samantha Benton graduated from the University of Puget Sound in 2001 and University of Oregon School of Law in 2012. Samantha returned to her hometown of Hood River, Oregon, in 2019 to be closer to family and to work in a collaborative environment that allows her to get to know her clients and fight for positive outcomes.
Samantha is an active member of the Family Law and Estate Planning section of the Oregon State Bar, and member of the local County Bar Association. Formerly, she served as the Ethics Committee Vice-Chair and Government Relations Vice-Chair for ABA Family Law Section. She also serves on the Domestic Violence Subcommittee of the State Family Law Advisory Committee.
When she is not working, Samantha is likely hiking with her Springer Spaniel, Alice, fining her culinary skills and enjoying local wine and beer, or reading a good book.
Education
- Hood River High School,1997
- University of Puget Sound, 2001
- University of Oregon School of Law, 2012
Bar Membership
- Oregon