A Holistic Approach
At Non Hostile Family Law, we understand that navigating family law matters requires not only legal expertise but also a compassionate and understanding approach. Our services are designed to support and guide you through every step of the process, ensuring that your rights are protected and your voice is heard. Whether you're facing the challenges of divorce, seeking mediation for amicable resolutions, or in need of comprehensive legal services, Joel Overlund and our dedicated team are here to provide you with the skilled assistance and personalized care you deserve. Explore our range of services to find the right fit for your family law needs.
Empathetic and Efficient
In addition to his extensive experience in family law, Joel is formally trained in Mediation and Collaborative Law, offering alternative methods to traditional court proceedings. His expertise in mediation enables him to conduct “kitchen-table” sessions for unrepresented parties, as well as facilitate settlements between parties who have legal representation, all without the need for court intervention. Joel firmly believes in the benefits of a non-litigious and non-hostile approach, especially in terms of the short and long-term wellbeing of involved parties and their children. His practice is built on this philosophy, welcoming those who seek a more amicable and effective resolution to their family law matters.
Meet our team
Joel Overlund
Family Law Attorney
Joel Overlund is a Bend, Oregon family law attorney with a unique peaceful and collaborative approach to divorce, custody and legal separation cases.
Joel was born and raised in Minnesota and North Dakota, moving to Oregon to attend law school. He has practiced family law here in Oregon for 31 years. He obtained his undergraduate degree in 1981 from Concordia College in Moorhead, MN, with a major in Business Administration and minors in Political Science and Religion. He earned his law degree in 1987 from Willamette University College of Law in Salem, OR.
From 1990-2013 Joel practiced family law with St. Andrew Legal Clinic (SALC), a low income legal service provider in the Portland, OR metropolitan area. He was a staff attorney there for five years, then became Executive Director, a position which he held for 18 years. As Executive Director, Joel was the firm’s managing partner, overseeing a staff of 18 lawyers at one point. His job combined handling family law cases, (including trial work), working with a Board of Directors, and helping with outreach and fundraising.
Joel joined Zimmer Family Law in 2013. He was a partner in the firm Zimmer, Bond, Fay & Overlund from 2016 to 2019. In 2019, Joel and his wife relocated to Bend. He has joined Non Hostile Family Law to focus on the resolution of family law matters without traditional litigation, through the use of mediation, limited services and collaborative law.
Personal:
Joel is married, has three children, five grandchildren, a dog, and two cats. He enjoys cycling, backpacking, kayaking, traveling, reading, and good bottle of wine or beer.
J.D. (1987) Willamette University College of Law, Salem, OR
B.A. (1981) Concordia College, Moorhead, MN
Dedicated to Fair and Just Family Law Outcomes
Theresa Overlund
Receptionist/Office Manager
Theresa comes to Non-Hostile family law with over 30 years experience in insurance, customer service and client services. She most recently worked for the Meals on Wheels People in Portland. Her experience allows her to assist Joel in providing the best possible services for his clients. She is enjoying what Central Oregon has to offer, and loves spending time with her yoga practice, gardening, cooking, and spending time with her grandchildren.
Our mission
At the heart of Non Hostile Family Law lies a mission driven by compassion, integrity, and a deep commitment to the well-being of families. We strive to transform the experience of family law matters into a process that is respectful, fair, and healing. Our goal is not just to provide legal solutions, but to foster an environment where every client feels supported and empowered to move forward positively. With a blend of legal expertise and empathetic understanding, we are dedicated to guiding families towards resolutions that uphold their dignity and pave the way for a hopeful future. At Non Hostile Family Law, we don’t just practice law; we advocate for peace and mutual respect in every family’s journey.
Community Involvement
Joel’s commitment to family and community involvement goes beyond the Non Hostile Family Law practice. He's passionate about access to justice, and is involved in the community in various ways including the following:
- Member of the Oregon State Bar Public Service Advisory Committee
- Member of the Academy of Professional Family Mediators (APFM)
- Member of the Oregon Association of Collaborative Professionals (OACP)
- Supports Legal Aid's Campaign for Equal Justice
- Supports St. Andrew Legal Clinic, a low income legal service provider in Oregon
- Supports the Oregon State Bar's modest means program
- Past president of Spirit of Grace, a community of Lutherans and Roman Catholics.
