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Ryan Cross

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Ryan Cross

Ryan Cross

Attorney
Get In Touch

Contact Us

(206) 792-0981

Biography

Ryan earned his undergraduate degree from Virginia Commonwealth University, where he majored in Criminal Justice and minored in Homeland Security and Emergency Management. During college, he gained hands-on experience through an internship with the Virginia General Assembly and worked as a paralegal at a consumer bankruptcy firm. These early experiences sparked his interest in law and steered him toward a career in legal advocacy.

Ryan went on to earn his Juris Doctor from Seattle University School of Law, where he developed a strong interest in family law. While in law school, Ryan excelled in the Estate and Disability Planning Clinic at the Ronald A. Peterson Law Clinic, earning top honors for his client work involving vulnerable adults and family decision-making.

After graduation, Ryan began practicing family law, representing clients in a wide range of matters including divorce, parenting plans, custody disputes, and guardianships. He has experience guiding individuals and families through complex and emotionally charged legal issues and is known for his balanced approach—compassionate with clients and unafraid to assertively advocate for their best interests in and out of the courtroom.

Ryan combines clear communication with strategic, confident representation. He tailors his approach to meet each client’s needs, whether through negotiation or litigation, always with the goal of securing a resolution that supports their long-term well-being.

Originally from Loudoun County, Virginia, Ryan now calls the Pacific Northwest home. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring new local restaurants, and attending live music shows and festivals. He’s also a proud dog dad to two French bulldogs, Ford and Blue, who keep life entertaining. Ryan values connection—both in and out of the courtroom—and brings that spirit into every aspect of his work. Ryan is licensed to practice law in Washington State, the District of Columbia, and Maryland.

More about Ryan Cross

Testimonials

“Working with Ryan and the team at Northwest Family Law was an exceptional experience from start to finish. They brought a rare combination of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and genuine care to the entire prenuptial process.”

Grayson M.

“Working with Ryan and Anna has been an exceptional experience. They are responsive, efficient, and dedicated to making everything as quick and easy as possible.”

Josh B.

Case Results

Child Custody · Plan Modification

Modifying a Parenting Plan to Secure Sole Custody

The Challenge

After domestic violence concerns, the client’s child had lived with them for an extended period with no contact from the opposing party. The situation was stable — but the original parenting plan remained in force and could have been used to compel an unsafe arrangement at any time.

How We Helped

Ryan Cross affirmed the client was right to act before a problem arose rather than after. Drawing on a deep understanding of the modification process, he worked with the client to prepare the petition and supporting filings for the court.

The Outcome

The court granted the client sole custody and full decision-making authority, limiting the opposing party to occasional monitored virtual contact — definitive protection, peace of mind, and a more stable future for the child.

Team Members

Monica Chin, CEO of Northwest Family

Monica Chin

Founder & CEO
Mitchel

Mitchell Polonsky

Senior Attorney
Laura Edstrom

Laura Edstrom

Rule 9 Intern
Dylana Jones, Northwest Family

Dylana Jones

Attorney
Hanna Oh, Northwest Family 2026

Hanna Oh

Attorney
Smiling female family law attorney in blue blazer portrait

Sara Penn

Attorney
Smiling attorney in a white blazer posing confidently.

Claire Shea

Attorney
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