Meet The Team

Amanda Hinson, Partner

With 22 years in the legal profession my practice focuses on estate planning, trust administration, probate, tax planning, and real estate. My mission is to provide clear, compassionate guidance to help families and individuals protect their assets, plan for the future, and navigate life transitions.

Before entering the legal profession, I built a strong analytical foundation in biotechnology research. This experience supports my problem-solving approach to legal issues. Also drawing on my biology background I practiced in biotech patent law and disability law. I am honored to have served as a career judicial clerk for federal judges in the U.S. District Court in Seattle and San Diego.

For over 18 years, I have called Kitsap County home. My husband, Tony Hinson, a retired Navy JAG and current supervisory attorney at Navy Region Legal Office Northwest, and I are on the wild journey of raising our blended family of four awesome teenagers. Outside the office, I enjoy gardening, cooking, and spending my time at my kids’ high school cross country meets, jazz band concerts, and Model United Nations conventions.

As a mom with aging parents, I bring a personal understanding of the challenges families face. These experiences deepen my commitment to helping clients preserve assets, address multigenerational needs, and plan thoughtfully with an eye toward effective tax strategies.

I look forward to meeting with my clients and learning about their needs.

Credentials and affiliations:
  • Washington State Bar Association
  • State Bar of California (inactive)
  • King County Bar Association
  • Kitsap County Bar Association
  • U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington
  • U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California
  • U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, admitted 2002
  • University of San Diego School of Law, Juris Doctor, 2004
  • University of California Riverside, Bachelor of Science, Biology, 1997

 

Marissa Wachter

Marissa Wachter is an estate planning attorney who helps individuals and families plan for the future with clarity and peace of mind. She advises clients on wills, trusts, probate, and estate planning strategies tailored to their goals, values, and life circumstances. Her focus is on making a sometimes-complex process feel understandable, organized, and reassuring.

Marissa earned her J.D., summa cum laude, from Seattle University School of Law and her bachelor’s degree from the University of Washington. She is a member of the Washington State Bar Association and the Kitsap Bar Association.

Marissa began her legal career at Davis Wright Tremaine in Seattle, where she developed a strong foundation in legal practice. She later founded and operated a small law firm, gaining firsthand experience in providing personalized legal services to individuals. She is now pleased to continue her practice at Tolman & Hinson.

Marissa grew up in Kitsap County and now she and her husband are raising their family here. She has also volunteered extensively in her children’s schools, reflecting her strong commitment to the place she calls home.

Marissa is known for her thoughtful, detail-oriented approach and her ability to guide clients through important decisions with patience and care. She takes pride in helping clients create plans that bring security, reduce uncertainty, and protect what matters most.

Staff

Amy

Legal Assistant

As a legal assistant, I am focused on client interaction, helping run the front desk, and assisting our amazing attorneys. I previously worked for many years as an interior stylist/merchandiser and professional organizer, and I love being able to contribute attention to detail, organization, and a bit of style to the office.

In my off hours, you can find me decorating my house, baking, or traveling.

Merry

Office Manager, Legal Assistant

Merry joined Tolman & Hinson in 2022 after working in sales and veterinary medicine most of her career, bringing her enthusiasm for client service, clear and compassionate communication, and attention to detail with her. Her favorite part about working at Tolman & Hinson is being at the heart of the Kitsap community, meeting the clients, and being of service to the attorneys and team.

In her off time, you will find her staring at the stars and spending time with her family in their house in the woods.

Tammy

Paralegal

I have always been drawn to advocacy and to helping others access the resources they need for a more secure future. Before joining the firm, I worked as a paralegal in real estate and retail tenant law. Since joining Tolman & Hinson, I’ve had the privilege of supporting their practice by managing probate estate administration and guiding the case-management process. My own personal experiences have deepened my commitment to this work, and I find meaningful purpose in helping clients navigate the loss of a loved one with clarity, compassion, and support.

Kitsap County has been a wonderful place to raise my children, with its unique coastal climate, majestic mountains, and lush forests. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, cooking, and relaxing with a good book.