Spokane attorneys Dick and Karen Sayre, well known here for their emphasis on elder-related legal issues, have added attorney Michelle Fossum as a partner in their practice.

Fossum has been assigned to handle more administrative duties within the firm, which has changed its name from Sayre & Sayre PS to Sayre, Sayre & Fossum PS, says Dick Sayre. He and his wife, Karen, founded the firm in 1992.

“We’re seeing more cases of clients coming to us regarding long-term care of their parents,” Sayre says. “With that growing population, nursing-care facilities are increasingly failing to provide proper care and effectively medicate their residents.” 

Fossum brings needed expertise, he says.

“Additionally, she is expanding into our elder law practice and will be assuming a primary position related to public benefits related to long-term care, special needs trusts, estate planning and probate and trust administration, which are our primary areas of concentration,” he says.

Sayre says Fossum took over management duties almost immediately.

“That may seem fast, but we’ve known Michelle for over 20 years,” Sayre says. “She is smart and caring—a perfect combination as we expand.”

Karen Sayre hired Fossum when the Sayres worked at Underwood, Campbell, Brock, & Cerutti PS. After the Sayres left to start their firm, they continued to work with Fossum in varying capacities, Dick Sayre says.