A resident of Newport, Washington, and the founding attorney of ELTC Law Group, Denise Stewart’s parents inspired her move back to Northeast Washington—just as they once inspired her to pursue the legal career she now loves.

As a young woman, Denise initially gravitated toward archaeology, and after completing her undergrad studies in anthropology, she ultimately graduated from Seattle University School of Law in 1999.

The desire to be near family led her to put roots down in Pend Oreille County where she raised and homeschooled three children, remarried and was blessed with four additional bonus children.

She started ELTC Law Group in Newport in 2007 with only $500, not anticipating the impressive growth her firm would see over 20 years – one client at a time. Denise’s offices in Newport and Sandpoint focus on elder law, including estate, asset protection, long-term care, and after-death transfer planning. Although she averages six workdays each week, they are “mostly” balanced days with time for family. She loves her work and how it allows her to serve the community and bring clients peace of mind.

“In our lives, we have all these little questions, but when you leave a legacy you love and even something behind through charitable giving, you don’t question whether it was the right thing to do,” says Denise. “Their life continues to benefit others even though they’re not here.”

Through clients’ generosity and direction, Denise also established community funds at Innovia for Newport, Pend Oreille, Stevens, Ferry, and North Idaho Counties. She appreciates that community funds bring residents together to discuss what matters most and allows them to make funding recommendations collaboratively.

Personally and professionally, Denise is wholeheartedly committed to elevating the needs of others.

“Without taking care of one another, we don’t really have much of anything. Giving back is the fastest and surest way to look up from what’s in front of you to see what needs to be done around you. That’s community. That is a legacy you can love.”