John Stocks

Divorce and separation Attorney at Auburn, WA

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Resume

Excellent, Experienced, Professional Attorney

We hired John Stocks after reviewing several other Attorneys for my wife's divorce-settlement-theft Contempt-of-Court case against her ex. John was the only Attorney that could confidently visualize a successful path forward for us. John and his team sought out the critical, pertinent facts, put together a very solid case, and represented us in filings, communications, and court appearances. John successfully countered several unjustified aggressive attacks and attempts to evade responsibility and accountability by the other party, and expertly navigated several court hearings, and an appeal, with a final judgement in our favor. After exhausting our pursuit of the other party, John and his team represented us in a Tort Claim to hold the State responsible for their failures that allowed the original theft. John and his team expertly navigated filings, communications, and court hearings which resulted in a successful settlement for us. It took about a year and a half to complete our pursuit for justice and restitution. John represented and supported us throughout this process. John had a casual, friendly, down-to-earth demeanor in all our interactions, understood our loss and pain, and took our case seriously. John knew the law, put together a solid case, and professionally, confidently, successfully represented us in court. We are 100% satisfied with our decision to hire John, and are thankful we found him. Other Attorneys we've used in child support and parenting plan actions did not go as well. I don't understand the negative reviews of John, as we found him, his team, and the office to be very experienced, professional, and attentive regarding our case. We would hire John Stocks to represent us again without hesitation.

Excellent divorce attorney

The first thing to say is John knows his stuff. He is connected in the court systems and people respect him. He was straightforward and did not waste any of my time (or money). Very thorough and organized. I think any attorney/client relationship includes doing your own part since you have to supply them the information they need to make your case. John has templates and great questions to keep things on track and flowing smoothly. In the end, I am very pleased with his advice and his ability to get me to the results I was looking for in my divorce and child custody. I would hire him again in a heartbeat.

About John

Learn John’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Divorce and separation

75%

John Stocks has extensive experience in Family Law, from the complex divorce to the simple uncontested case. He states: "I use a wife range of tools & techniques to resolve cases -- trials, mediations, arbitrations, and negotiations)." This includes divorce, custody, child support, alimony, adoptions, property awards, & same-sex agreements/agreements.
... Read more
32 years, 1,500 cases
Child custody

10%

John Stocks has tried, mediated, & solved thousands of parenting plan & custody issues since 1991 as a advocate, trial lawyer and mediator. He states: "Clients are passionate & emotional about their children & I have learned how to balance this with the law to protect my client's interests and rights."
... Read more
32 years, 1,100 cases
Child support

10%

John Stocks thrives with financial records and math calculations (child support worksheets). He states: "most attorneys went to law school to avoid math; but not me, I love math!" When it comes to calculating child support or other financial issues, I don't shy away.
... Read more
32 years, 5,000 cases
Criminal defense

5%

John Stocks has successfully handled over 10,000 criminal counts/charges against his clients since 1991, ranging from serious felonies, including white collar crimes, Class A, B, and C felonies, down to the simple misdemeanors. He states: "I rarely consider a guilty plea because fighting the charges will often result in the best result."
... Read more
32 years, 200 cases

CALM, EXPERIENCED, AND TENACIOUS ON YOUR SIDE. FOR A FREE CONSULTATION CALL 253-766-4890

As I look back on almost 30 years of practice, I have loved being a lawyer. I have experience and success in a variety of fields, which has made me more well-rounded compared to those who emphasize only 1 or 2 areas of law.

I have obtained several rewarding and high settlements for clients in employment law, divorces, personal injury, civil rights and police misconduct cases. I obtained the highest jury verdict in Spokane County ($3 million) against a Sheriff's office for misconduct against my clients. I am a well-rounded trial attorney who has litigated a wide range of cases, including taking cases through mediation, arbitration, and if needed, trial and appeals courts. I have done thousands of both bench and jury trials.

In law school, they told us in orientation that a high percentage of lawyers wish they did not go to law school and become a lawyer, so I am in the minority - I would not change a thing. The law is for me. I am a "lifer", which means I will practice law until they drag me away.

I decided to become a lawyer after the Major League Baseball peoples did not draft me in the first few rounds when I was 18. I pitched several "1 hitters" (yes, 1 hitters, not "no hitters") in high school and for American Legion at ages 16-18, however, I lacked a 4th pitch (slider, curve, and knuckle-curve was all I had). Anyway, I also loved playing basketball and football, but when old age set in (age 24+), I began playing softball and have really enjoyed that over the years, until really old age set in (age 40+), and now I don't play as much. Trying to pick up golf cuz I see a lot of older people out there swinging the clubs, but the last few years I have focused on Tennis. I like martial arts, sports on t.v., great movies, great food, and being happy. I had not traveled around the world much, until I met my wife, Hong, who has taken me to China many times now (wow, it is really cool). My focus outside of work is my daughter, JoJo and her life! Anyway, I still spend a lot of time doing work because I am obsessed with deadlines, client problems and being the best lawyer I possibly can.

Awards

Client's Choice

2016 2015 2014 + 2 ...

Licensed for 31 years

State WA

Status Active

Acquired 1991

Updated 03/18/2023

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Contact John

John Stocks

(253) 766-4890 Office

721 45th St Ne

Auburn, WA, 98002-1303

www.vansiclen.com

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Reviews

Write A Review

4.5 / 5.0

63 customer reviews

5 Star

87%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Client's Choice

John received a significant number of 4+ stars in 2016

Posted by James | December 26, 2018

Excellent, Experienced, Professional Attorney

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Posted by Alissa | March 28, 2018

Excellent divorce attorney

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Posted by Kevin Kangara | February 19, 2018

Outstanding Attorney and Person.

I hired John Stocks to represent me when I wanted to protect the best interest of my kids. He met and exceeded my expectations and was very resourceful and creative during the process. I had looked up family law attorney's online and after contacting a few attorneys who were not able to help me for one reason or another. I settled for John. I explained the problem I had, he immediately had a strategy for how I could handle the issue and get a favorable result. He was available immediately for an in person meeting, which was excellent because I was looking to solve this issue immediately. John spoke to me for over an hour, strategizing over the best course of action to take and explaining all options. I have worked with attorneys before, non of them give you their cellphone numbers. John give me his direct cellphone number and asked me to call him directly if I had any questions or concerns. He was the most impressive attorney I have dealt with. I have to say that the entire firm was not only professional, timely and competent on every level...but they also were extremely compassionate to the feelings and issues that this type of case involves. There was not a time that I contacted him that he didn't answer. He understood that the children's best interest is the heart of the matter. If you ever have to retain an attorney for family law matters, I recommend John with absolutely no reservation. I am certain that you will not be disappointed in having John Stocks represent you. He is diligent, humane, and an excellent negotiator; he will fight for you. I would like to say a big thank you to John Stocks and all your crew.

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Posted by RUBEN | November 26, 2016

VERY PROMPT AND DETAILED

I contacted John Stocks in regards to a collection matter for my business and he and his staff were very prompt to respond with all of the necessary questions they had in order to work on my case. They would answer any question I had during the process clearly and promptly which gave me peace of mind!

Posted by anonymous | October 28, 2016

Excellent Choice

I personally used Mr. Stocks in my divorce. In a divorce, you need an attorney that has a solid understanding of case law. When you’re in court with John he will stand by you and fight for you and your case till the bitter end. I had two attorneys before finding him and would not trade him for anyone out there. He also is a genuine guy and he truly understands how hard it is to get through a difficult court battle. He gets it and will guide you every step of the way. He does not play games he works very hard. He has a very well skilled paralegal as well and they are an amazing team! They both get the job accurately and on time which is very important when you are dealing with the courts. My only regret in my case is I did not hire him out the gate! I hope my review helps you make a good decision in choosing a experienced attorney!

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Posted by Shannon | October 28, 2016

Thorough and Detailed

I have a complex contentious custody situation that requires an attorney that can keep up with all the details and cut right to the core of the issues. I've had experience with several attorneys- John stands out from them in several ways. He kept up with me and all the details of my case. John thoroughly explains his legal advice in such a way that helps you to make better decisions for yourself and your case. This is exactly the quality you need in an attorney. Especially with an emotionally charged family legal matter.

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Posted by Carol | October 27, 2016

John Stocks

I hired John Stocks as my divorce attorney. I would hire him again in a heartbeat. I have recommended Mr. Stocks to several colleagues, and they have been just as happy with his services. Mr. Stocks was compassionate, supportive, helpful, aggressive, knowledgable, experienced and guided me through a very difficult time. If I ever need any future services, I would definitely use Van Siclen, Stocks & Firkins again.

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Posted by Gale | October 27, 2016

Cool Attorney! Very smart and great to work with!

John took my theft case, it's been an extremely difficult situation, and I feel protected having him as counsel. He's tough, the same day I hired him he fired out demand letters and got things moving. His demand letters early on helped me obtain a 5 year stalking protection order 3 monthe later. He knows his stuff. Definitely recommend.

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Posted by Shannon | October 27, 2016

Best of the Best

I have hired John Stocks to represent me for several legal issues over the past 6 years and I have been very impressed with his work. John Stocks has a great personality that shines through to make you smile during the most difficult times in your life while presenting the facts involved and explaining legal options. I highly recommend John Stocks on a regular basis to anyone who needs legal counsel and have referred many clients which resulted in nothing but positive feedback. John Stocks is extremely knowledgeable and professional and is known for working many hours through the night to ensure we have reviewed and prepared for everything we need in court and I will continue to hire him if I ever need an attorney.

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Posted by Brenda | October 27, 2016

Divorce case

I hired John Stocks for my divorce case that lasted 18 months. John was always friendly, courteous and pleasant with me. He is the type of lawyer who does his homework and is prepared for court and trials with the details. Nothing gets buy him; he checks and double checks his work and papers. John advocated for me in my divorce and wrote up the papers detailing everything I wanted. He did a fabulous job! I would hire him again!

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Posted by anonymous | October 27, 2016

Finally, an Attorney with Integrity

John Stocks is an extremely gifted attorney. If you are looking to hire the best, he is the man for the job.

Posted by anonymous | December 10, 2015

The best

John is the best attorney I have ever met or worked with. He is caring and compassionate about his clients. He knows exactly what he is talking about, knows the laws, he is available to his clients, straight forward and honest. I would recommend John to anyone looking for an attorney. John has worked tirelessly on my very difficult case. He was always prepared, on time, gave good advice and followed through.

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Posted by Linda | December 10, 2015

Driven and Dedicated Attorney!

John, is an excellent attorney he does not do anything without a 100% effort. His presence in the court room is very professional. His communication with the judges and other peers is outstanding. He does not back down he stands up for you and will not give up. He has proven himself time and time again in my case. There are many issues in a divorce that you often have to settle on. In all of my hearings he executed every aspect of my motion without settling on anything. He will give you the absolute information that you need to be successful and will tell you straight up if you do not have a chance. It’s refreshing when you hire an attorney that is honest with you and lets you know the facts in your case. I had a situation unfold over a long weekend he responded to me right away on my case even though he was out of town and handled things so well. I can’t thank him enough for his effort and outstanding approach in all phases of his work. If you are looking for an attorney you can count on you will not be disappointed.

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Posted by Erica | December 10, 2015

Glad to have Mr. Stocks in my corner

I first consulted with Mr. Stocks when I was contemplating divorce. I appreciated his no-pressure advice. When I subsequently had to deal with domestic violence and divorce, I hired Mr. Stocks. I felt very comforted having him in my corner. He is knowledgeable, helpful, friendly, accessible...and I always felt he was more concerned with solving my problems than racking up hours. Mr. Stocks has often counseled me, giving me suggestions and instruction on things I could take care of myself in order to reduce charges. I will definitely be using Mr. Stocks for my future legal needs.

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Posted by anonymous | December 10, 2015

Domestic

John has been very helpful helping me walk through each step of the process. He's clear in his explanations and really stepped up for me when I needed him the most. He's not only a really nice guy who makes me feel at ease, but he's as sharp as a whip! There is no doubt he knows exactly what he's doing. He is very passionate about what he does and it shows in how he takes on a case. I would highly recommend him to even my closest of family and friends!

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Posted by anonymous | December 9, 2015

John is the man to get the job done!

John and his staff have been fantastic to work with. He has been able to execute the needs for me to get my life back on track and have the peace of mind I deserve. He is professional and personable. He has been responsive at all times of the day. I highly recommend him for any family law matters.

Posted by Dawn | August 19, 2014

Satisfied Client!!

John Stocks is an excellent attorney. He recently handled my divorce after a 23 year marriage. I was very happy with the outcome. This was my second divorce and hands down he is the best! John continues to stay in contact with his clients, sending reminders to update your wills, beneficiaries, and provides information for resources in the community. I have referred John to several friends!

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Posted by anonymous | August 5, 2014

Skilled attorney with lots of experience - Great people skills too.

Great, down-to-earth guy. His experience and familiarity with the courts and those that staff them really helped me out. On one occasion in court, a regular family court commissioner made comments indicating that she held John in high esteem from her previous experiences hearing him. He's a busy guy - getting a non-emergency response may take a little persistence but I understand this is common - but gets the job done - never missed a single deadline in my long, high-conflict case. The couple of true emergency responses I needed were addressed immediately. He deposed my opposing parties with confidence and lots of skill - very adept at questioning - compassionate when needed, firm when needed. Overall, an honest, experienced, skilled attorney with great people skills, good work ethic, and sense of humor. Definitely would recommend.

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Posted by anonymous | August 1, 2014

Relevant and accurate advice.

John was very straight forward with me when I was going through my divorce. He gave realistic and valuable advice. I would recommend him without hesitation.

Posted by anonymous | August 1, 2014

Pick him!

John is one of a kind (in a good way)! He has been my attorney of choice for over four years. I have recommended him to friends who have in turned used his services as well. He has a quick mind and solid advice. Pick him!

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.6 (Superb)

Work Experience

Member
Eagles
2007 - Present

Member
Auburn Elks
2007 - Present

Member
Auburn Noon Lions
2006 - Present

Partner
Van Siclen, Stocks & Firkins
1998 - Present

Partner
Van Siclen & Stocks
1995 - 1998

Associate
Smythe & Van Siclen
1991 - 1994

Law Clerk
Burgess Fitzer
1990 - 1991

Law Clerk
Swanson Parr Cordes Younglove Peoples and Wycoff
1988 - 1989

View all work experience

Education

Seattle University School of Law
Juris Doctor
1991

University of Washington
Bachelor's of Arts
1988

Centralia Community College
Associates
1986

Olympia High School
High School Diploma
1984

View all education

Legal Cases

Wife of 11 years versus Husband
Custody and Child Support

Puyallup Couple - Attorney's Fees Request
$10,000 temporary attorney's fees

Spousal Maintenance (Alimony) and Contempt Against Husband
The Court of Appeals Reversed Trial Court

View all legal cases

Associations

Auburn Area Chamber of Commerce
Board Member
2014 - Present

Tacoma Pierce County Bar Association
Member
2007 - Present

Selective Service System
Local Board Member
2003 - Present

King County Bar Association
Member
1991 - Present

USSSA Softball World Player
Member
1987 - Present

Oregon State Bar
Member
2002 - 2002

Auburn Chamber of Commerce
Member
1999 - 2007

American Trial Lawyers Association
Member
1994 - 1999

Washington State Trial Lawyers Association
Member
1992 - 2007

American Civil Liberties Union
Member
1992 - 1999

American Bar Association
Member
1991 - 2007

Washington State Bar Association
Lawyer
1991 - 2007

South King County Bar Association
Member
1991 - 2007

Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Member
1991 - 1999

Seattle University Law Review
Editor
1989 - 1991

University of Puget Sound Law Review
Editor
1989 - 1991

Professional organizations and associations
Member
1987 - 1988

Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity
Member
1987 - 1988

University of Washington
Dean's List
1986 - 1988

Phi Theta Kappa National Honor Fraternity
Member
1985 - 1986

National Honor Society
Member
1984 - 1988

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Languages Spoken

French

Russian

Honors and Awards

Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2017

Best Attorney
Auburn Reporter
2014

Best Attorney - finalist
Auburn Reporter
2013

Super Lawyer
Super Lawyers Magazine
2011

Best Attorney - finalist (top 2)
Auburn Voters - Auburn Reporter
2011

Best Attorney - finalist (top 2)
Auburn Voters - Auburn Reporter
2010

Best Attorney - finalists (top 2)
Auburn Voters - Auburn Reporter
2009

Best Attorney - 1st Place
Auburn Voters - Best of Auburn
2008

Who's Who in Family Law
2007

Employee and Lawyer of the Year
2006

VIP Member
Continental Who's Who National Business Leaders
2006

Rising Star Nominee
2005

Marketing Director
2004

Acknowledgement
The Pacific Institute
2003

Recruiting Partner
2001

Certificate Re: GAL and Title 13 OAC Training
2000

Managing Partner
1996

Juris Doctor
1991

Law Review Top 5% in Law School
1989

American Jurisprudence Award
1989

Full Scholarship
International Business Food Clinic
1988

University of Washington Dean's List
1988

Bachelor of Arts Business - Magna Cum Laude
1988

Award
Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity International
1987

Full Tuition Scholarship
University of Washington Alumnae
1987

University of Washington Dean's List
1986

National Honor Fraternity Award
Phi Theta Kappa National Honor Fraternity
1986

National Honor Society
Centralia Community College
1986

President's List of Honored Students
1985

President's List of Honor Students
Centralia Commuity College
1984

Scholarship
Western International Band Clinic
1984

State Champion - Percussion/Piano
Washington State
1984

Beta Gamma Sigma
Bega Gamma Sigma University of Washington
1983

State Champion
All-Star Baseball Fastpitch Colt League
1982

View all awards

Publications

4 Options (Relationships)
4 Options to a Family in Turmoil - VSSF
2015

Auburn Reporter
Family Law Questions and Answers
2006

King County Journal
Family Law
2006

Van Siclen, Stocks and Firkins Newsletter
Mediation - The Process
2006

Van Siclen, Stocks & Firkins Publication
Family Law Litigation Disclosure
2005

Washington Business Association
How to obtain a Mechanic's Lien
1992

Juvenile Cases Reporter
Summary of Juvenile Court Cases
1989

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Speaking Engagements

UW and Seattle U
Judge Trial
2013

Van Siclen, 40 years
Re-swearing after 40 years
2008

Mock Trial
Judging Mock Trial
2008

Mock Trial
Mock Trial
2007

Mock Trial
Mock Trial Skills
2007

Moot Court
Moot Court Arguments
2006

VS & F Conference
ER 904: procedural and substantive pointers
2005

The Physician Patient Privilege Visited
WSTLA Roundtable: The Physician Patient Privilege Re: Subsequent Treating Doctor
1992

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (21)

Given (38)

Endorse John

Natalie De Maar

Unknown Attorney | Nov 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. John is a hardworking and excellent attorney. He is extremely knowledgeable and obtains good outcomes for his clients."

Patricia Steele

Divorce and separation Attorney | Jun 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. John Stocks in an aggressive advocate with a common sense approach to his cases that is both refreshing and effective. I would recommend him to anyone dealing with family law issues."

Jill Rogers

Unknown Attorney | Mar 19
Relationship: Other

"A very knowledge and competent attorney. I endorse this lawyer."

Thomas Baldwin

Divorce and separation Attorney | Feb 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Michael Waddington

Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse John. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."

Alexis Singletary

Divorce and separation Attorney | Feb 06
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"John is professional and knowledgeable. I am confident that the clients I refer to him will receive good, competent representation and strong advocacy."

Kathryn Abele

Child custody Attorney | Jan 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"John is a fantastic attorney and a good man. Any client would be well-served to have John help them with their family law issues."

Deborah Gordon

Divorce and separation Attorney | Jan 15
Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer."

Andrekita Silva

Divorce and separation Attorney | Dec 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Christopher Benson

Divorce and separation Attorney | Jul 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. John has an excellent reputation in the legal community and is known for high quality client representation."

Jeffrey Caffee

Unknown Attorney | Dec 14
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"With over 20 years of experience working on Family Law (and other) legal issues, John Stocks is one of the most respected Family Lawyers in Washington."

Daniel Cook

Family Attorney | Oct 18
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"John is a great lawyer. He is great in the courtroom and works long hours to serve his clients well. He does his homework, including legal research, and makes strong arguments even when the facts appear to be against him."

Todd DeVallance

Family Attorney | Jun 29
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. John has been a opposing counsel on several cases. He is strong advocate for his clients."

Andrew Kim

Family Attorney | May 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Joshua Foreman

Family Attorney | Jul 24
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I enthusiastically endorse this lawyer's work. John Stocks and his firm, Van Siclen, Stocks, and Firkins, a full service firm in Auburn, WA, do excellent work. He would be a good choice for a matter anywhere from Tacoma to Seattle, especially the Maleng Justice Center in Kent. His firm combines hard-hitting, effective representation of their clients with the highest standards of courtesy and professionalism. Here's just one example of something you should know about him: John did something absolutely amazing -- he argued a case before the Supreme Court of the United States . . . when he was only 25 years old -- that's not a misprint; he was twenty-five, not long out of law school. You would expect to see an attorney like John practicing law on a high floor of a big building in downtown Seattle; Auburn is lucky to have him."

Michael Zoretic

Divorce and separation Attorney | Jan 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. John is very bright and tenacious in protecting his client's interests."

Tamara Roe

Criminal defense Attorney | May 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I recommend John Stocks because he is a persuasive advocate for all of his clients. He is knowledgeable and works hard to effectively and efficiently meet his clients' goals."

Janel Ostrem

Family Attorney | May 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I strongly endorse John Stocks. He is a thoughtful, compassionate, yet aggressive attorney whose years of experience make him one of the most well-respected and admired attorneys in South King County."