Ethical. Knowledgeable. Proactive.
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.
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.
What Clients Say
"I'm incredibly grateful for Scott's support after my father's unexpected passing. He guided us through the process with clarity, compassion, and professionalism. He was always responsive and sensitive to our situation, making a difficult time more manageable."
Avvo Review, May 2025
"Scott helped me with writing a corporate lease and reviewing my lease with my tenants. He was very thorough and updated the documents multiple times so that they are best suited for my case."
Avvo Review, March 2025
"When I ask Mr. Haapala for legal advice, I always feel like I'm talking to a real adult! I recommend him because he is proactive, personal, and patient. His legal services feel like a gift from the gods because of his professional work ethic."
Avvo Review, May 2024
"Scott has helped me with a variety of legal matters over the last several years. He helped me set up my LLC so that I can rent my property. Scott is thorough and detailed and explains complicated legal information in layman's terms."
Avvo Review, February 2024
"My spouse and I have started, purchased, operated, and sold several small businesses over the past 25 years. This time we were creating a start-up with 10 different people. Scott was an invaluable asset to our endeavor."
Avvo Review, September 2023
"Scott is a wonderful man, a great fellow, and brilliant Doctor of the Law."
Google Review
"I'm incredibly grateful for Scott's support after my father's unexpected passing. He guided us through the process with clarity, compassion, and professionalism. He was always responsive and sensitive to our situation, making a difficult time more manageable."
Avvo Review, May 2025
"Scott helped me with writing a corporate lease and reviewing my lease with my tenants. He was very thorough and updated the documents multiple times so that they are best suited for my case."
Avvo Review, March 2025
"When I ask Mr. Haapala for legal advice, I always feel like I'm talking to a real adult! I recommend him because he is proactive, personal, and patient. His legal services feel like a gift from the gods because of his professional work ethic."
Avvo Review, May 2024
"Scott has helped me with a variety of legal matters over the last several years. He helped me set up my LLC so that I can rent my property. Scott is thorough and detailed and explains complicated legal information in layman's terms."
Avvo Review, February 2024
"My spouse and I have started, purchased, operated, and sold several small businesses over the past 25 years. This time we were creating a start-up with 10 different people. Scott was an invaluable asset to our endeavor."
Avvo Review, September 2023
"Scott is a wonderful man, a great fellow, and brilliant Doctor of the Law."
Google Review
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.
Contact
Please fill out the form below and I will contact you shortly.