Straightforward Legal Advice for Businesses, Creatives, and Entrepreneurs in Washington State

I’m Scott Haapala, a Seattle-based attorney who helps individuals and businesses navigate legal matters with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re forming a new company, negotiating a contract, or preparing to sell your business, I offer practical, responsive legal support tailored to your specific goals.

At Seattle Legal Advisor, I bring firsthand experience as both a lawyer and business owner. I’ve started, run, and advised businesses across industries—and I know how important it is to have someone in your corner who can explain the legal fine print and protect your interests.

Learn more about my background.

Legal Services Rooted in Strategy and Clarity

My practice focuses on helping clients make smart, informed decisions in the following areas:

• Contract Law: From contract drafting, amending, and negotiation to handling breach of contract disputes, I make sure your agreements are sound, clear, and enforceable.
• Corporate & Business Law: I advise startups, closely held companies, employee-owned entities, nonprofits, and growing businesses on corporate formation, restructuring, shareholder agreements, and day-to-day legal needs.
• Business Formation: Launching a new venture in Washington? I help clients choose the right structure, handle compliance, and build a solid legal foundation.
• Closely Held Businesses: I work with founders, family-run companies, and tight-knit teams on succession planning, governance, buy-sell agreements, and long-term strategy.
• Mergers & Acquisitions: Whether you’re buying or selling a business, I’ll guide you through the transaction process with strategic counsel and careful due diligence.
• Business Succession Planning: When it’s time to pass the torch, I’m here to help you do it smoothly—with plans that protect your legacy and secure your business’s future.
• Intellectual Property: Your ideas matter. I help clients protect their creative assets—trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets—with proactive legal protection.
• Entertainment Law: Having spent decades as a performing artist and promoter, I know the music industry well. From licensing and contracts to IP protection, I support musicians, producers, venues, labels, and creatives of all types in managing their rights and relationships.
• Estate Planning: For individuals and families, I provide estate planning services including wills, trusts, and powers of attorney—so your future is protected.

A Personalized Legal Approach That Puts You First

Every client has different goals—and different risk tolerance. I take the time to understand your business, your values, and what success means to you. Then I help you move forward with confidence.

If you’re looking for a law firm that combines big-picture thinking with fine-detail execution, you’re in the right place.

Let’s Talk About Your Next Step

My office is located in Burien, and I work with clients throughout Seattle, King County, and across Washington State.

I make it easy to connect—most clients meet with me virtually via Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or by phone, so there’s no need to leave your office. Whether you’re just getting started or facing a complex legal issue, I’m here to help.

Call me at 206.240.0442 to schedule a consultation, or reach out online here.