Stoel Rives Hired New Partner in Seattle
The firm expanded its environmental practice by recruiting a water rights attorney to its regional office.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in People
Stoel Rives LLP has appointed a new partner to its Seattle office to focus on water rights law. The attorney joins the firm after previously serving at K&L Gates.
Why it matters
The recruitment is intended to bolster the firm's specialized knowledge within its environmental practice group. This move positions the office to better address complex legal water issues across the Pacific Northwest.
The firm added one partner to its Seattle office to expand capacity in the environmental practice group. The recruitment effort focuses on deepening regional water rights expertise.
The players
Stoel Rives LLP
This is a full-service business law firm that maintains a significant presence in the Pacific Northwest.
K&L Gates
This is a global law firm where the newly hired partner previously practiced law.
The details
The new partner was brought on board to integrate their experience into the existing environmental practice team. Their work will center on navigating the unique legal and regulatory landscape of water rights within the Pacific Northwest.
Timeline
October 7, 2026: Stoel Rives announced the recruitment of the new partner.
Market Landscape
This strategic hire reflects a broader industry trend where major firms are aggressively expanding their niche environmental practices. By strengthening its Seattle presence, Stoel Rives remains competitive in a market defined by complex natural resource litigation and regulatory oversight.
Corporate clients requiring assistance with water rights issues in the Seattle area now have additional legal resources available at the firm. This expansion may lead to increased capacity for the firm to handle complex environmental cases for its regional client base.
The takeaway
Firms are increasingly prioritizing niche environmental expertise to navigate regional resource regulations. Clients should evaluate their current legal counsel's proficiency in local water law as these regulations continue to tighten.
Further reading
Learn more about local leadership shifts in the People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Law360.
