Comprehensive Client Approach

Our attorneys were some of the first in the region to adopt contractual Dispute Resolution Agreements (“DRAs”) which became the framework for Washington legislation in 2005 that mandated investigation and reporting schedules in construction defect cases.  But not all DRAs are alike.  Successful agreements contain strict discovery and report deadlines, as well as tolling provisions that “freeze” the time periods during which a claim must be brought.  DRAs benefit both developers and homeowners because they keep the dispute out of the public eye, out of the courts, and can often lower the costs of the entire action.  Through carefully tailored drafting and strategic use of DRAs, Barker Martin has successfully settled numerous claims without ever having to file a lawsuit.

Mediation is also a key component to resolving cases, whether or not a lawsuit has been filed.  Our litigation attorneys have successfully mediated the vast majority of our cases without the necessity for costly trial proceedings.  However, if we do need to fully litigate a claim, our litigators are seasoned trial attorneys.  When arbitration is mandated or is beneficial to the client, Barker Martin is well-versed in arbitration proceedings.  Ultimately, the team at Barker Martin is creative, adaptive and resourceful in relying on multiple dispute resolution tools to obtain proven results for our clients.

Barker Martin’s attorneys are experienced in identifying and evaluating the complex issues involved with product liability claims.  We maximize recovery for our clients by bringing direct claims against both developers and manufacturers responsible for damages as appropriate.  In some instances, allegedly defective products become the subject of class action lawsuits.

As part of its efforts to protect and serve its clients, Barker Martin has prosecuted putative class actions in Washington and Oregon and is currently involved in ongoing negotiations in a national class action involving allegedly defective plumbing components.  Thus, we are uniquely situated to advise our clients on both direct claims and on the effect of participating in class action claims or settlements. 

In fact, our extensive trial experience (three of the five partners being former criminal prosecuting attorneys) applies to our general counsel work as well.  Our extensive courtroom experience puts us in the unique position of projecting how a dispute may play out in front of a judge or jury.  This knowledge allows us to advise our clients so that they can avoid getting pulled into court in the first place, and to make sure that they can present the most reasonable defense if they do get sued.

Bigger than a solo practitioner, but smaller and more focused than a mega-firm, Barker Martin has the focus, resources and resolve to properly prepare and present your case at trial.

Barker Martin’s litigators are well qualified to handle complex civil disputes. Because of our depth of experience, we are also able to continue to provide excellent client service if a seemingly straightforward case splinters into an insurance coverage matter, multi-party claim or appeal. Our attorneys are qualified to handle all aspects of a legal claim, from evaluation and evaluation of alternative dispute resolution, filing, to litigation and trial, through post-judgment supplemental proceedings and execution on a judgment.