Ruth Atherton, Business Attorney in Seattle, Washington

Ruth concentrates on business, civil rights, contracts, copyright, and general. Each area below outlines the kind of case Ruth handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Business

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• Civil Rights

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• Contracts

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• Copyright

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• General

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• Government

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• Health Care

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• International

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• IP

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• Tax

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• Trademark

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Ruth's primary office is at 1432 Elliott Ave W, Seattle, WA, 98119-3124. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new business attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Ruth usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Ruth discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in business practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Ruth for a business case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Ruth walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Ruth offer a free consultation?

  Ruth charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Ruth's office. Some business attorneys offer free consults — check Ruth's current terms during booking.

• How long do business cases in Washington typically take?

  Simple business matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Ruth gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Ruth take my case if I'm outside Seattle?

  Ruth is licensed in Washington. Matters governed by Washington law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Ruth will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Ruth?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Ruth will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Ruth accepting new business clients right now?

  Ruth's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.