Se Hwa is an Associate Attorney with Reed Longyear whose practice focuses primarily on family law litigation. She brings a practical, strategic, and solutions-oriented approach to each case, with experience handling hearings in many counties throughout Washington State. She understands that family law disputes can be both legally complex and deeply personal, and she works closely with her clients to identify their priorities, develop effective strategies, and move their cases forward.
Se Hwa is a confident advocate who prepares each case with the expectation that it may need to be litigated, while remaining focused on opportunities for efficient and constructive resolution. She recognizes that the best outcome is not always achieved by prolonging a dispute. Instead, she works to identify creative solutions that address her clients’ goals and, when possible, resolve issues early. When litigation is necessary, she is prepared to advocate firmly and effectively on her clients’ behalf.
Clients value Se Hwa’s ability to make complicated legal issues understandable and her willingness to be accessible and responsive throughout the process. She takes the time to listen carefully, understand the circumstances unique to each family, and explain both the legal options and practical considerations involved in important decisions. Her goal is for clients to feel informed, supported, and confident in the strategy being pursued.
Se Hwa’s approach to family law is informed in part by her own experiences navigating language and cultural barriers. She immigrated from Korea to Southern California and, as the eldest child in a family where English was a second language, frequently served as a bridge between her parents and the institutions they encountered. These experiences gave her an early appreciation for the importance of clear communication, empathy, and effective advocacy which she brings to her work with clients today.
Before focusing her practice on family law, Se Hwa practiced in the areas of disability rights and special education law, advocating for students and families seeking appropriate educational services and accommodations. This experience strengthened her ability to navigate complex disputes, work with individuals facing difficult circumstances, and develop practical solutions to challenging problems.
Se Hwa earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Irvine, graduating cum laude with a double major in Psychology and Criminology. She received her Juris Doctor from the University of Illinois College of Law. During law school, she was selected as an Anderson Fellowship Extern with Equip for Equality and was the recipient of the Brad & Terri Lane Internship through the Public Interest Law Initiative’s Student Internship Program. She also served as a Teaching Assistant for two undergraduate Introduction to Law courses. Se Hwa graduated as a Leadership Scholar with a Pro Bono notation, reflecting her commitment to public service and advocacy.
Se Hwa is committed to providing thoughtful, effective representation that balances strong advocacy with a focus on efficiency and early resolution. Whether a matter can be resolved through negotiation or requires litigation, she works to give her clients a clear strategy, responsive counsel, and confident advocacy at every stage of the case.