John S. Stocks

Divorce and Family Law, Criminal Defense, Personal Injury, Civil Litigation

John Stocks has represented a lot of high profile clients and argued ground-breaking cases before the biggest courts (WA Supreme Court, 9th Circuit, and all 3 Courts of Appeals). He has been the lead trial attorney in several complex trials, including family law, criminal defense, and civil cases. He has also settled a lot of cases through mediation, which requires a thorough preparation of the case from the outset.
Although settlements often yield the best result for most clients, John is not afraid to get a case ready for trial, whether criminal, civil, or family law. He has been the lead trial attorney in numerous jury and bench verdicts, including obtaining the largest and first-ever jury verdict for negligent investigation against a law enforcement agency, which involved the Sheriff’s office. The case was held in Spokane County Superior Court ($3 Million). Also, John has settled multiple police & government misconduct cases for over seven figures. He has also taken numerous cases to trial for divorce clients where the spouse was offered next to nothing, and no one else would take the case. One case highlight was achieving a lifetime spousal support award for the wife of a local, semi-famous news anchor (Seattle); another was obtaining a $450,000 property award decision from a Judge (Tacoma) for a husband who was offered $30,000 in settlement!
John also has won many large, complex, and/or publicized criminal jury trials, especially including those falsely accused of a crime (yet already being convicted in the media), including over thirty (30) teachers, all resulting in a dismissal of all charges or not guilty verdicts.
Now, John heads the family law department with a strong legal team of excellent lawyers and paralegals to address the many legal issues facing individuals in relationship turmoil.
Lastly, John has successfully argued several cases before the Divisions I, II, and III of the Court of Appeals. John is admitted to practice in the State of Washington and the U.S. District Court, both the Western and Eastern Districts of Washington.

John was born and raised in Olympia, Washington, where his father was with the State Auditor’s office for many years. He graduated from the University of Washington and then went to law school at Seattle University (formerly University of Puget Sound School of Law). He maintains his residence in King County, and remains active in the community, including Auburn Eagles, Elks, Rotary, Lions Club, Chamber of Commerce, softball associations, and other volunteer organizations. He enjoys participating and/or being a spectator in local softball, basketball, baseball, and professional sports; John also writes and composes music.

“I know that John has other cases, but he made the time for my “drama” at the drop of a hat. Thanks for the personal attention and sincere advice. (Divorce, March 1995, Contempt, 2012.)

“I found John and his staff to be professional, prompt, and passionate. …will use no-one else.” (Divorce, Custody case)

-Jessica M. of Auburn

“John is my ‘go-to-guy’ for all my legal concerns.” (Divorce case.)

-Kylie H. of Federal Way

“John is hard working; would take my texts and phone calls (even from home after dinner) just to answer my growing concerns and calm me down.” (Divorce client – 26 year marriage.)

-Gary S. of Lake Tapps

See John Stocks Argue in the Supreme Court