- Phone: (206) 652-8660
- Fax: (206) 652-8290
- Email: rtownsend@bjtlegal.com
Practice Description
Roger Townsend is an experienced trial attorney who has practiced in Seattle since 1995. Townsend is a zealous advocate for his clients in federal and state court, as well as private arbitration and mediation. His practice focuses on representing individuals against companies, protecting and enforcing their rights in employment and business relationships. Townsend co-founded Breskin Johnson & Townsend PLLC in 2007.
Townsend is active in public service. He is the Chair-Elect of the Ninth Circuit Lawyer Representatives Coordinating Committee and a Member of the Ninth Circuit’s Conference Executive Committee. He is a past President of the Federal Bar Association for the Western District of Washington and has been appointed by the Court as a representative of the Western District of Washington at the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals Judicial Conference and the Roadways to the Bench Program. Townsend served as a city councilmember, volunteers for a free civil rights legal clinic, co-founded a program introducing students to Constitutional principles, and regularly moderates and coordinates panels for continuing legal education and important issues in the legal profession to Judges and members of the Bar.
Admissions & Courts
- United States Supreme Court
- Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals
- United States District Court, W.Dist.Wa.
- United States District Court, E.Dist.Wa.
- Washington State Courts
Professional Honors and Affiliations
Advisory Council Member of the Ninth Judicial Circuit Historical Society, 2024
Member, Workplace Environment Committee, Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, 2024-2027
Program Chair of the Ninth Circuit’s Conference Executive Committee, 2023-2024
Chair of the Lawyer Representatives Coordinating Committee, Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals Judicial Conference, 2023-2024
Chair-Elect, Lawyer Representatives Coordinating Committee, Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals Judicial Conference, 2023
Roadways to the Bench, Appointed by the United States District Court for the Western District of Washington to the bench-bar committee supporting diverse representation on the Federal Bench, 2023
Member, Conference Executive Committee, Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals Judicial Conference, 2021-2024
President, Federal Bar Association, Western District of Washington, 2016-2017
Co-Chair, Past Presidents Committee, Federal Bar Association, Western District of Washington, 2018-2023
Faculty Member, Federal Bar Association for the Western District of Washington Annual Litigation Academy, 2019-2022
Ninth Circuit Lawyer Representative, 2017-2020
Named “Super Lawyer” by Washington Law & Politics, 2008 to present
“AV” rated by Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review (highest rating)
AVVO rating: 10.0 (highest rating)
Councilmember, Bainbridge Island, Washington City Council, 2013–2017
Co-Founder, Constitution Day, an educational program in the classroom and courtroom teaching 4th and 5th grade students constitutional principles
Volunteer, Federal Bar Association, Western District of Washington Civil Rights Legal Clinic, 2006 to present
Training participant, Postpartum Support International, Perinatal Mood Disorders: Components of Care, 2022
Law Clerk to the Honorable William L. Dwyer, United States District Judge, Western District of Washington
Law Clerk to the Honorable Robert R. Beezer, United States Circuit Judge, Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals
Education
- Northwestern University School of Law
- Wesleyan University B.A., Economics
A great advocate and ally
From my labor case’s beginning to its triumphant end, Roger Townsend was a great advocate and ally every step of the way. He was very responsive, cordial, wise, and supportive of my quest for justice. I have already highly recommended him to others needing legal counsel for workplace issues in WA and will continue to do so. Many thanks again, Roger, for all you did for me and my case. You made a difference for me and my family, and I will always be grateful.
When you need a lawyer, BJT is the place to go
I very much appreciate the work your law firm and particularly Roger Townsend did on my behalf. Roger informed me of the pitfalls and potential, and guided me through the process, and we arrived at an acceptable solution. When you reach a point in life where you need a lawyer, BJT is the place to go. They will fight for you. I was very happy with the settlement that Roger negotiated.
An unparalleled level of professionalism, dedication, and expertise
I cannot express enough gratitude for the outstanding legal services provided by Roger Townsend. From the moment I reached out to him regarding my employment dispute, he demonstrated an unparalleled level of professionalism, dedication, and expertise. Facing mistreatment from my employer, which not only impacted my income but also my well-being, I was uncertain about the path forward. However, upon consulting with Roger, I immediately felt reassured and confident in his ability to pursue justice on my behalf.
Throughout the entire process, Roger and his team exhibited a profound commitment to my case. They meticulously analyzed every detail, leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of a favorable outcome. Their communication was clear, prompt, and always kept me informed of the progress and developments.
Thanks to their strategic approach and unwavering advocacy, Roger successfully navigated the complexities of mediation and secured a substantial settlement from my former employer. Their negotiation skills were remarkable, ensuring that my interests were fiercely represented at every stage. Not only did Roger achieve a favorable financial outcome, but he also provided invaluable support and guidance, alleviating much of the stress and uncertainty associated with legal proceedings.
I wholeheartedly recommend Roger to anyone seeking exceptional legal representation. His proficiency, compassion, and commitment to his clients make him a standout choice in the legal field. If you find yourself in need of legal assistance, Roger and the team at BJT are simply the best.