HKM Wins at Trial. HKM served as co-counsel representing defendants Delta Inn, Inc. and Hung G. Kim in a multi-million claim regarding the ownership of Delta Inn. On December 19, 2011, after a four-week bench trial in King County Superior Court, the court issued a verdict in favor of defendants. Soon In Kim v. Delta Inn et. al., 10-2-19547-5 SEA (King County Superior Court).

Congratulations to Partners Donald W. Heyrich and Dan Kalish who were recognized by Washington Law and Politics once again. Donald W. Heyrich was named a SuperLawyer by the magazine, and Dan Kalish was named a Rising Star.

HKM Wins Jury Verdict For Former Employee. HKM represented plaintiff Wendy Dorn in two-week jury trial regarding overtime wages. On September 15, 2011, jury returned verdict in favor of Ms. Dorn and, on November 30, 2011, the court awarded attorneys’ fees. Dorn v. Kent Post No. 15 et. al., 10-2-10169-1 KNT (King County Superior Court).

HKM Obtains Class Certification in Overtime Claim. On September 13, 2011, the Federal District Court in Oregon certified a class of Sleep Country sales associates in an overtime claim against the company. HKM represents the Sleep Country class. Shanklin et.al. v. Sleep Country USA, Inc., 3:10-CV 00406-MO (D. Or.).

HKM Writes Employment Discrimination Section of the Washington State Practice Manual. As in previous year, HKM has written the Employment Discrimination section of the Washington State Practice Manual. The publication is expected to be published in early 2012.

HKM Expands with New Hire. On September 28, 2011, attorney Cindy Lin joined HKM as a full-time associate attorney. You can learn more about Ms. Lin here.

HKM Prevails in Non-Compete Case. HKM represented Robert Heffner, current CEO of Falck North America, in non-compete lawsuit filed by Rural Metro Corp., after Mr. Heffner left Rural/Metro. Rural/Metro dismissed the case on November 4, 2010 after Heffner prevailed at TRO hearing. Rural Metro Corp. v. Heffner, 2:10-CV-02292-GMS (D. Ariz.).

Advice for Employers or Employees

Washington Employment Lawyer

Any employer in the state of Washington knows the massive numbers of laws, regulations, requirements, paperwork and other legal issues that must be carefully managed to avoid problems. Laws are ever-changing, both at the f ederal and state level, and implementing the changes quickly and correctly can mean the difference between ongoing claims and the ability to do business without the threat and distraction of litigation.

There are countless cases in which employees file claims against employers that have no basis in fact; this type of activity is a way of life for some employees who use the system to gain benefit. It is strongly advised that you have professional legal counsel keep your legal requirements in order and help you avoid lawsuits, claims and trouble with federal and state regulatory bodies. At HKM Employment Attorneys, we provide ongoing legal counsel to Fortune 500 companies, small businesses, family businesses and other enterprises that want to protect against future legal problems. Our advice to business owners is that you ensure that you are represented by a top quality employment law attorney to address all your legal details, including contracts, separation agreements, non-compete agreements, protecting trade secrets, and ensure that your firm is fully in compliance with regard to wages, overtime, commissions and can defend against claims and legal threats.

Representing Employees in Claims in Washington

For employees, when you are uncertain if you have a right to file a claim against your employer, we can assist you in determining whether your claim has merit, and what can be expected under current Washington state and federal employment law. Employees may assume they are at a disadvantage, but if you have been the victim of employment discrimination, have had your rights under the family and medical leave act (FMLA) violated, or have a wage claim, getting knowledgeable legal representation to help you get the issue resolved is a crucial matter. We are very familiar with all Washington employment laws as well as federal statutes that protect workers, and can quickly help you determine whether you can move forward with a legal action against an employer that has violated your rights in the workplace.

Contact a Washington employment law lawyer from HKM Employment Attorneys for representation in any employment law issue.