Christopher "Chris" Durbin

Brian E. Lawler is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Environmental Law, Land Use and Zoning Law and Real Estate Law. Brian E., who practices law in Seattle, Washington, has been recognized since 2015. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Brian E. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Sarah K. Duran is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Artificial Intelligence Law. Sarah K., who practices law in Seattle, Washington, has been recognized since 2026. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Sarah K. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

With over 20 years of experience and 250+ merger/acquisition transactions (ranging up to $120M), Karl provides comprehensive legal and tax counsel, personalized to all types of closely held and family businesses throughout the Pacific Northwest. Drawing upon a significant federal and state tax background, he enjoys assisting clients with choice of entity and formation, governance and operating agreements, employment and compensation plans, service agreements, as well as business dissolutions,...

BACKGROUND Shoko’s practice focuses on preparing and prosecuting patent applications in electronics, telecommunications, optics, software, and mechanical engineering. Shoko received a B.S. in Physics from the University of Washington in 1998 and her J.D. from the University of Washington School of Law in 1997. EXPERIENCE Shoko collaborates extensively with her clients drafting and prosecuting patent applications in electronics, telecommunications, optics, medical devices, software, and ...

Troy J. Hickman is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Corporate Law. Troy J., who practices law in Seattle, Washington, has been recognized since 2016. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Troy J. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

BACKGROUND As Managing Partner, Hayley brings a clear vision and collaborative leadership to the firm, guiding its strategic direction while continuing to serve clients with deep expertise in intellectual property (IP) law. She focuses on efficient and effective patent prosecution, licensing, and validity and infringement studies. With a background in electrical engineering, Hayley has successfully advised clients across a broad spectrum of technologies, including electrical, software, and me...

Daniel M. Waggoner is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Communications Law, First Amendment Law and Technology Law. Daniel M., who practices law in Seattle, Washington, has been recognized since 1991. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Daniel M. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Laura R. Gerber is a strong advocate for her clients. From her early years in a whistleblower protection organization, to her current practice litigating against some of America’s largest corporations, Laura has built her career as a trusted advocate for plaintiffs. Laura represents her clients with skill, tact and diplomacy. As a result, Laura’s clients trust her to listen carefully, keep them informed, provide excellent legal advice, and to diligently pursue their interests in l...

Akane R. Suzuki is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Tax Law and Trusts and Estates. Akane R., who practices law in Seattle, Washington, has been recognized since 2011. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Akane R. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Rich Birmingham has over 30 years of experience in both employee benefit consulting and ERISA litigation. He is one of the few lawyers in the country who is listed in "Best Lawyers in America" in two employee benefit categories—ERISA law and ERISA litigation. His command of both the substantive and litigation areas of ERISA enable him to give practical proactive advice when consulting with clients and to obtain early dismissal or settlement when litigating ERISA matters. Rich is a frequ...