About Michael D. Levelle

Michael Levelle has practiced law in Oregon since 1990. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work from the University of Montana, graduating with honors. He then attended Willamette University College of Law, where he earned his Juris Doctorate and a Dispute Resolution Certificate.

In 2018 he embarked on a new journey and established Levelle Law LLC, a firm with a client-centered culture. Michael’s practice focuses on complex estate planning, estate and trust administration, guardianships, conservatorships, and general business. He defines his role not only as a legal advisor, but also as a counselor, empowering his clients to have an active role in developing solutions based on their values and objectives. Michael is experienced in resolving contested matters, assisting the parties to share their concerns, understand each other’s point of view, and find common ground to preserve and mend valuable relationships when possible.

Mr. Levelle is dedicated to participating in civic organizations that serve under-represented and at-risk communities. He has extensive non-profit experience, including his role as Board Chair for the local organization Self Enhancement Inc., and on the Medical Teams International Board for two years. Mr. Levelle was a member of the Oregon State Bar Board for three years and served as its first African American President in 2017. His focus as President was to promote equity, inclusion, and access to justice.

Mr. Levelle enjoys spending time with his family, gardening and photography. He has a deep appreciation for the outdoors, and road tripping through the western United States, especially his home state of Montana.

Areas of Practice

Estate Planning

Whether your estate planning needs are simple or sophisticated, we treat them with the same level of care and efficiency. We can help you establish your first plan – or update an existing one, address significant life events (including marriage, children and serious medical issues), and work with you through complicated family dynamics.

We work closely with you and your other professional advisors (including accountants, bankers, and financial planners) to deliver high-value legal services as part of an integrated estate and business succession planning process.

Our estate planning practice includes:

  • Estate tax planning (revocable trusts and other foundational tools, including wills, advance directives, and durable general powers of attorney)
  • Business succession planning
  • Gift tax planning
  • Planning for charitable giving
  • Special needs planning
 

Trusts and Estate Administration

We advise personal representatives, trustees, and beneficiaries concerning the administration of estates (probate) and trusts. We help clients make informed decisions concerning post-death tax planning opportunities, payment of estate/trust expenses, maintenance and distribution of the assets in accordance with fiduciary obligations, tax reporting obligations, and closing of the estate/trust. We take a proactive approach, focusing on quality administration, detailing potential issues, and guiding forward-thinking decisions.

Our estate and trust administration practice includes:

  • Probate
  • Administration of inter vivos and testamentary trusts including advising as to fiduciary obligations and allocation of assets
  • Advise regarding tax reporting obligations
  • Dispute resolution through negotiation or mediation
  • Guardianships and Conservatorships
 

Mediation

Mediation is a voluntary, cooperative conflict resolution process in which parties make all decisions regarding participation, information sharing, and outcome. It is a conflict resolution process that emphasizes self-determination and collaborative problem solving. The goal of mediation is for a neutral third party to help the participants come to consensus on their own. Rather than imposing a solution, a mediator works with the conflicting sides to explore the underlying interests beneath their positions. The mediator’s role is to guide the process so as to foster mutual understanding of all participants’ concerns, interests, and needs. The mediator is a neutral third party who does not decide any substantive issues for the parties and does not provide legal advice or therapy.

 

The Team

Katie Levelle

Katie is the office manager at Levelle Law LLC. She is responsible for client relations and the oversight of the firm’s day to day operations.

Katie worked for the Beaverton School District as an instructional assistant for 13 years and 3 years as a substitute teacher. She enjoys gardening, camping, daily walks, reading and spending time with her four wonderful children and two beautiful grandchildren.

Kelsey E. M. Levelle

Kelsey is the office administrator and paralegal at Levelle Law LLC. She graduated from Portland State University in 2018 with a degree in Social Science and a minor in Small Business Administration. Her professional experience includes working as a Social Service Assistant for adjudicated youth and as a Resident Benefit Specialist for adults experiencing disabilities.

Kelsey plans to attend law school in 2022, following her passion as an advocate for underrepresented populations. Her focus is in the areas of estate planning, social security and disability law. She enjoys spending time with her dogs, cooking, bike riding, and Oregon’s natural beauty.