Case Studies: Demonstrating Our Commitment to Legal Excellence
At the Law Offices of Shakespear N. Feyissa PSC, every case we handle is an example of our relentless pursuit of aggressive, results-oriented advocacy. Our Seattle-based law firm has secured exceptional results on behalf of clients in a myriad of complex legal issues. On this page, we detail a handful of representative cases that highlight our focused level of service, legal strategy, and unwavering commitment to our clients. These examples reflect how we assist clients at every level with tailored solutions and unmatched advocacy to relentlessly pursue justice and victory.
Securing Justice After a Life-Altering Truck Accident
In 2022, a local Seattle construction worker suffered life-changing injuries when his vehicle was struck by a commercial semi-truck on Interstate 5. The trucking company denied liability and claimed the accident was unavoidable due to harsh weather conditions.
We quickly put our plan into action and began investigating. We engaged accident reconstruction experts and reviewed hours of dashcam footage. Our team carefully obtained and analyzed the electronic logging device data from the truck, confirming violations of federal hours-of-service regulations. We also discovered evidence that the driver had not received adequate safety training.
Through aggressive negotiation and preparing the case for trial, a $2.8 million settlement was obtained for our client, covering medical costs, lost wages, and future care needs. The trucking company also agreed to change its driver training standards. Our client’s family was extremely grateful for our caring efforts and for the settlement, which made it possible for them to rebuild their lives.
Achieving Justice in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
The family of a young woman killed while crossing a street retained our firm after a van ran a red light and struck her in a crosswalk in downtown Seattle. The at-fault driver’s insurance company offered a very low settlement and tried to blame the victim.
Attorney Shakespear N. Feyissa led a full investigation, obtaining witness statements, traffic camera images, and expert testimony in accident reconstruction and pedestrian safety. We filed a wrongful death lawsuit and, during discovery, demonstrated that the defendant’s company had a pattern of driver negligence.
Our aggressive litigation forced the insurance company to settle related cases with similar facts for $1.5 million, the policy limit, in mediation. The family gained not only monetary closure but also a public apology from the defendant company. This case demonstrates our commitment to holding negligent parties accountable and achieving justice for grieving families.
Upholding Civil Rights in a Workplace Discrimination Conflict
Our client, a software engineer, endured a pattern of racial discrimination and retaliation at a large Seattle-based technology company. Despite reporting the incidents to human resources, our client was demoted and ultimately terminated. He came to us seeking to hold his employer accountable and restore his professional image.
We quickly filed claims with the Washington State Human Rights Commission and commenced a civil suit based on race discrimination, wrongful termination, and emotional distress. We reviewed all discovery, including internal emails, performance reviews, and testimony from supportive co-workers. Utilizing state and federal civil rights laws, we pursued punitive and compensatory damages.
The case settled before trial for $950,000, along with the reinstatement of our client’s former job and a written apology from the company. The settlement helped our client revive his career and prompted the company to institute diversity and inclusion training.
Defending Medical Negligence Victims: A Success Story
Case Overview: A Seattle mother experienced severe complications after a surgical procedure at a local hospital. Postoperative negligence led to infection and permanent impairment. The hospital denied wrongdoing, and the case was initially dismissed by another law firm before the client sought our help.
Legal Strategy: We re-examined the medical records with leading independent experts, identifying deviations from the standard of care. Our attorneys filed a medical malpractice lawsuit, highlighting systemic issues in postoperative care protocols. We leveraged expert testimony to demonstrate the direct link between negligence and our client’s injuries.
Outcome: Through persistent advocacy and strategic negotiation, we secured a $1.2 million settlement, ensuring our client received the medical care and support she needed. The case also led to a hospital review of its surgical safety procedures, furthering our goal of promoting accountability in healthcare.
Helping the Innocent: A Criminal Defense Triumph
Case Overview: Our client, a young man with no prior record, was charged with felony assault after a bar altercation was mischaracterized by witnesses. Facing the prospect of a lengthy prison sentence, he turned to us for help.
Legal Strategy: Attorney Feyissa conducted a meticulous review of surveillance footage and cross-examined witnesses, revealing inconsistencies in their statements. We presented new evidence showing our client acted in self-defense and filed motions to suppress questionable testimonies. Our legal team maintained constant communication with the client and his family, ensuring they understood every step of the process.
Outcome: The prosecution dropped all charges on the eve of trial. Our client was able to return to his job and resume his life without the stigma of a criminal conviction. This case exemplifies our commitment to robust criminal defense and the protection of clients’ rights, regardless of the odds.
Resolving Employment Discrimination for Systematic Change
Case Overview: A nurse at a major Seattle hospital endured months of gender discrimination, including unequal pay and exclusion from advancement opportunities. Despite repeated complaints, management failed to address her concerns.
Legal Strategy: We filed complaints with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Washington State Human Rights Commission. Our attorneys gathered evidence of wage disparities and interviewed multiple co-workers who corroborated our client’s experiences. We engaged in mediation, emphasizing not just our client’s need for justice but the broader implications for workplace equity.
Outcome: The hospital agreed to a $350,000 settlement, as well as the immediate revision of its pay and promotion policies. Our client’s perseverance, combined with our legal expertise, resulted in compensation and meaningful institutional change.
Civil Litigation: Complex Aviation Lawsuit Success
Case Overview: A small business owner suffered substantial losses after a private aircraft lease was canceled due to alleged safety violations. The lessor attempted to retain the entire deposit and avoid liability for the abrupt termination.
Legal Strategy: Our firm reviewed the intricate lease agreements, aviation regulations, and maintenance records. We filed a civil lawsuit for breach of contract and misrepresentation, employing aviation experts to support our client’s position. Our negotiation skills and knowledge of aviation law enabled us to counter the lessor’s defenses effectively.
Outcome: The matter was resolved through arbitration, with our client receiving a full refund of the deposit plus damages totaling $210,000. The case highlights our ability to navigate complex civil litigation and deliver favorable results for both individuals and businesses.
Why Clients Rely on the Law Offices of Shakespear N. Feyissa PSC
Our case results reflect not just legal skills, but also our firm culture and values: integrity, persistence, and dedication to our clients. Whether we are pursuing justice on behalf of a person who has suffered an injury, defending the rights of the accused, or advocating for civil liberties, we have a client-centered, multicultural approach to every case. Our commitment to honest practices and ethical representation, and lawyers who can relate to our diverse client base, has allowed us to earn the trust of individuals and businesses throughout Seattle and across the nation. Learn more about us.
Get in Touch: Speak with Proven Advocates
If you or someone you love is experiencing a difficult legal matter – from personal injury, wrongful death, civil rights, criminal defense to employment discrimination – we are ready to assist. The Law Offices of Shakespear N. Feyissa PSC can provide the aggressive, result-oriented representation you need. Contact us today and request a consult to see how we can help you make the most of our experience.