Blackfoot Family Lawyers

Deborah Gates was born in Laguna Beach, California and raised in Ketchum, Idaho. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Santa Clara University, graduating with minors in Philosophy and Performing Arts. After completing her undergraduate work, Ms. Gates earned her juris doctorate from Southwestern University School of Law. During law school, Ms. Gates interned for the Department of Children and Family Services’ contracted law firm, representing the children of families where abuse was alleged, including lower income clients in child custody cases. Also during law school, Ms. Gates interned for the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s...

Alan J. Coffel was born and raised in Salem, Oregon. He attended the University of Oregon, graduating in 1969 with a B.A. degree in Political Science. After graduating, he spent two years in the U.S. Army with the rank of 1st Lieutenant and had a tour of duty in Vietnam for one year. Upon returning, he attended law school at the University of Idaho, graduating in 1974. He was the Owyhee County Prosecutor for approximately five years and has since been in private practice in both Owyhee County and Canyon County. He is admitted to practice...