Wallace Terry

Professional Experience

I was fortunate to know at an early age what I wanted to do in life. I have always rooted for the underdog and even as a teen I was trying to solve problems and mediate every conflict I came into contact with. Because I wanted to understand the interpersonal relationships of people and how those relationships come about I focused in undergraduate school on the social sciences.

After Law School I began my career doing primarily corporate and business law and enjoyed creating and helping to sustain those businesses. Then I discovered criminal work and found that it was like being involved in a mystery story and I could focus on successful resolutions. It gave me an opportunity to really dig into the law and how it works in a trial setting with truly adversarial roles. And so began a long career defending the accused.

I also found that same type of process in family law where I strive to minimize conflict and help people through the devastation of divorce with as little trauma as possible.

After spending six years practicing law in Salem, I moved my family to Hermiston, Oregon where I spent a few years in general practice then focused on criminal law. That career in criminal defense lasted for 17 years and grew from a sole practice to a firm practice with 11 employees including attorneys, investigators and paralegal staff.

In 1994 I went back to a diversified practice and focused on family law, wills trusts and estates and business law with some criminal law clients. I also practiced in the areas of medical malpractice. During that time I expanded my abilities by becoming trained in mediation. This mediation training has assisted me in bringing people together in conflict and facilitating their involvement in resolving their conflicts in a more friendly fashion.

After retiring for a time I found I missed the practice of law and the rewards it brings. I have been very fortunate to have found a home at Harris Law Firm where we practice a holistic approach, to be your family of attorneys to aid and assist in every area of your life where we can be of assistance.

I currently take cases in the areas of Family Law, Wills Trusts and Probate. However, feel free to contact me with any areas that I have experience in.

Personal

When I am not practicing law I spend time with my two cocker spaniels going to the coast for walks on the beach, fishing or scuba diving. I also enjoy travel, especially to warm climes or to see my children in Hermiston, OR and in Las Vegas, NV. At home I enjoy woodworking and landscaping or being in the kitchen cooking for family and friends.

Please email me if you'd like to have me help you, or if you'd like more information.