Elizabeth Hanley is an experienced plaintiffs’ trial attorney and shareholder at Schroeter Goldmark & Bender in Seattle, where her work continues the firm’s 55-year tradition of advocating for those who have been harmed.
In her practice, Ms. Hanley represents individuals who have been sexually abused or discriminated against; crime victims; individuals who have suffered wrongful death or serious personal injury; individuals who have been subjected to bad faith by an insurance carrier; and employees who have been subjected to unlawful practices individually or on a class-wide basis.
In the courtroom, Hanley is known for her ability to connect with juries, often by distilling complex information in ways that develop trust and effectively convey what’s at stake and why it matters. Her trial preparation regularly leads to favorable outcomes for her clients, including many cases she has tried to jury verdict in Washington’s federal and state courts.
Beyond the courtroom, Hanley plays an active role in shaping the law itself. Her legislative work is a natural extension of her passion for advocacy, which is rooted in her belief that justice shouldn't depend on outdated or unjust laws.
She has been recognized as a Top 100 Trial Lawyer by the National Trial Lawyers each year since 2013. Additionally, she has been recognized by Washington Super Lawyers every year since 2017, as a Top 50 Woman Attorney by Washington Super Lawyers, and by The Best Lawyers of America since 2021.
She serves by appointment to the Washington Supreme Court and the Washington Pattern Jury Instructions Committee. She also served as the president of the Washington State Association of Justice for the 2024-25 term and as the Immediate-Past President continues to lead in the organization. In addition, she currently serves as the Secretary of the American Association for Justice Council of Presidents, the national trial lawyers’ association.
Hanley earned a BA at Gonzaga University, and during her undergraduate years studied British Literature at Trinity College, Oxford University. She earned a JD from the University of San Diego School of Law. Prior to becoming an attorney, she served as lead articles editor of the San Diego International Law Journal. She also represented taxpayers in disputes with the IRS at the University of San Diego School of Law Tax Clinic and received honors in trial advocacy.
Hanley grew up in Montana, where she developed a competitive spirit and determination as the oldest of five siblings. Outside of her legal practice, she enjoys the challenge of endurance sports and is often found training for a triathlon or climbing one of the Pacific Northwest region’s peaks. In fact, she has summited many iconic peaks in the Northwest, including Mt. Rainier, via multiple challenging routes.
Hanley has two accomplished daughters who share her passion for advocacy and helping others.
Practice Focus:
Auto Accidents
Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries
Class Actions
Employment Law
Insurance Bad Faith
Medical Malpractice
Personal Injury and Wrongful Death
Sexual Assault and Harassment
Wage and Hour (Individual and Class Action)
