Stephen Monro
Owner of Monro Law Firm and Platinum Law Group
Stephen Monro is an attorney in Washington State with decades of experience in law, construction, and real estate. He founded several law firms, including the Monro Law Firm and Platinum Law Group, and is admitted to practice in all Washington State Courts as well as the Western and Eastern District Federal Courts. Alongside legal work, he is licensed as a general contractor, real estate broker, and IRS tax preparer. For over 25 years, he has provided pro bono legal services, assisting individuals who lack access to representation. His practice has covered areas such as civil litigation, personal injury, and property law.
Early Life and Educational Background
Stephen was born in 1952 in Seattle, Washington. After completing secondary school, he studied at Central Washington University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree. He then went on to City University in Los Angeles, where he obtained a Juris Doctor degree. Later in his professional life, he returned to City University and completed a Master of Business Administration degree.
Marine Corps Discipline and Civilian Transition
Before entering the legal profession, he served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam era. Military service provided him with discipline, confidence under pressure, and a respect for order. These traits became valuable in his later work as an attorney and in managing his own law firm. His ability to lead, stay focused in stressful situations, and follow through on responsibilities continued well beyond his time in service.
Admission to Legal Practice
Stephen began practicing law in 1996. Since then, he has represented clients across Washington State, appearing in both state and federal courts. He is admitted to all Washington State Courts and to the Federal Courts for both the Western and Eastern Districts. He is an active member of the Washington State Bar Association, and also holds membership in the Washington State Association for Justice and the American Association for Justice. These organizations provide him with access to professional resources, peer support, and continuing legal education.
During his career, he established and managed firms under different names, including the Law Office of Stephen K. Monro, the Monro Law Firm, and Platinum Law Group.
Experience in Real Estate and Construction Fields
In addition to law, he has worked as a licensed general contractor in Washington. This hands-on experience gives him unique insight into construction sites, contracts, budgets, and inspections. It also provides practical knowledge that many attorneys do not bring to property and construction-related cases.
He is also licensed as a real estate broker in Washington State. This adds a detailed understanding of transactions, contracts, disclosures, and agency duties. With both legal training and industry knowledge, he can approach real estate disputes and transactions with a holistic perspective.
His experience in construction and real estate often supports his legal work. He has handled disputes involving property sales, boundary issues, and commercial disagreements, using his combined background to evaluate both documents and site conditions directly.
Mediation Services
Stephen also offers mediation services, drawing on his years of experience to help clients resolve conflicts outside of court. He accepts various mediation matters at reasonable costs, and many cases he oversees are settled through this process.
Tax Advocacy Credentials
He is credentialed with the IRS to prepare tax returns and provide assistance with related matters.
Pro Bono Service
For over 25 years, he has dedicated a portion of his practice to pro bono representation. Many of the clients he assists face serious challenges such as housing loss, financial hardship, or unfair treatment. He approaches these cases with the same level of commitment and care as he does paid work.
Often, those needing pro bono services are unfamiliar with legal systems and deadlines. He takes the time to explain procedures and ensure filings are correctly completed. His continued dedication to this work reflects a long-standing belief in equal access to justice.
Personal Interests and Outdoor Stewardship
Beyond his career, he values family, animals, and outdoor life. He enjoys fishing in the rivers and lakes of the Pacific Northwest, and often goes camping with his family, traveling by RV throughout Washington and nearby states.
He also raises horses, including rescues that need regular care and attention. Providing for them requires patience and consistency, which he has maintained year-round.
Preserving land and protecting wildlife habitat are essential to him as well. He supports conservation efforts and believes in maintaining natural spaces for future generations. These values guide how he manages his property and what he passes on to his family.
Family remains central in his life. He and his wife are nearing their 50th wedding anniversary, and their enduring partnership, combined with strong family connections, has provided a solid foundation of support throughout his career.
Stephen Monro continues to dedicate his professional life to law while maintaining firm commitments to family, community, and the natural environment.