Stahancyk, Gearing, Rackner, and Kent Open New Law Office

Story by: Cheri Nagel
Date Published to Web: 2/26/2004
Printed in the Central Oregonian: 2/17/04

In mid-January Stahancyk, Gearing, Rackner and Kent P.C. opened a new family law office in Prineville. The award winning firm, who also has offices in Bend, Portland and Astoria, was founded by Jody Stahancyk, the daughter of longtime Prineville resident Joe Stahancyk.
"I grew up on a ranch north of Prineville and attended Ochoco Elementary School and Crook County Middle School, before graduating from Crook County High School," said Stahancyk.
After graduation, Stahancyk attended Linfield College and then the University of Oregon Law School.

Operating out of Joe Stahancyk's residence, located at 105 SW Beaver Street, the Prineville office will offer such services as estate planning, divorces, modifications of child support, probate, wills, and future planning. "We offer all aspects of family law, not just divorce," said Stahancyk.

James Larson, a practicing attorney with 38 years experience, will be working full time as counsel to the Prineville firm. Larson was born and raised in Portland and obtained a bachelors degree in political science from Lewis and Clark University. Following college, Larson spent four and a half years in the US Navy, serving as a Surface War Officer. He remained a member of the US Naval Reserve, eventually retiring as a commander. After his active duty, Larson returned to school, attending Willamette University's Law School. Upon completion of his degree, Larson worked for the Oregon State Attorney General's office in both the Portland and Salem offices.

Larson began practicing in Prineville with Jim Van Voorhees in 1974. After 29 years, Larson and Van Voorhees agreed to dissolve their working relationship at the end of 2003. Since 1974 Larson has been an active member of the community serving as a board member of Pioneer Memorial Hospital and also as the President of the Prineville Chamber of Commerce, President of the Kiwanis Club, and Treasurer as well as board member of the Crooked River Round Up Association.

Joel Kent, who runs the Bend office, will be in Prineville one day a week. "Joel is not only a terrific lawyer but he is also a very talented volleyball coach who coaches in Crook County. Every other county in Oregon wants him to coach their volleyball team, but Joel is dedicated to Crook County," said Stahancyk.

Also employed in the Prineville office is Anna Swanson, who came out of retirement to serve as secretary. "One of Anna's stipulations when she agreed to be the secretary was that she would be able to use the kitchen. Anna is always baking something delicious and invites those who stop by to sit down and have a cup of coffee and some dessert," laughed Stahancyk.

Joey Condron, a junior at Crook County High School and the son of David Condron and Nancy Wiggins, serves as a student worker in the Prineville office. Brian Hurley, who is a graduate of Colby College in Main, is employed as the Administrative Assistant. To round out the staff, Joe Stahancyk serves as office manager.

"It truly is enriching my father's life by having people in the house," said Stahancyk. "This is the most caring group of people you will ever meet and I am confident they will take wonderful care of Prineville."

To contact the office call (541)416-9312 or fax (541)416-0798.