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Great Attorney
I was concerned over potential legal action that may occur and contacted Puget Law Group to speak to an attorney on Christmas Eve - within 10-15 minutes Chris Kattenhorn called me to see if it was an emergency or to set up a better time to speak later that day. He called back at the time we set and gave good advice for where we currently were in the situation. He's extremely communicative and helped ease anxiety during a stressful time. I'd recommend Chris and Puget Law Group to anyone looking for advice/representation.
... Read more
Brooke
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Consulted Attorney
Call Chris if you need an awesome Lawyer!
Sometime you get in a pickle and need an attorney. Chris is awesome! He was professional, responsive and communicated very clearly. He has a great team. I was very satisfied with the final outcome and sentencing of my case. I was very pleased with Chris and his team. He even has a sense of humor that made this dark time of my life brighter.
... Read more
anonymous
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired Attorney
About Christopher
Learn Christopher’s areas of practice.
2
Practice areas
-
DUI and DWI80%
14 years
-
Criminal defense20%
14 years
Christopher Kattenhorn was recently named Partner and together with Bill Kirk manages Cowan Kirk Kattenhorn. Christopher joined the firm in 2010 after serving as a public defender in several municipalities throughout Puget Sound, including the cities of Kirkland, Bellevue, Redmond, Sammamish and Kent. During his tenure as a criminal defense attorney, Christopher has handled hundreds of cases through both the criminal and DOL hearing process. He has earned a reputation as a strong courtroom presence and vigorous advocate for his clients
Christopher earned his J.D. from Seattle University School of Law where he served as Vice President of the Student Bar Association. He is an active alumni and volunteers in the legal writing program and also serves as a judge in the mock trial program. Christopher earned his B.A. at Seattle Pacific University, receiving the Dean’s scholarship and graduating with a major in Communication. While at SPU, he served in a variety of humanitarian relief projects, ranging from a refugee camp in Albania to the jungles of Papua, Indonesia.
Since limiting to his practice to DUI and other serious alcohol-related offenses, Christopher has made his mark in the field. He was named a 2012 “Rising Star” by Washington Law & Politics Magazine for his work in DUI Defense. This honor is given to no more than 2.5% of attorneys practicing in the field. Christopher is also a NHTSA-Qualified Administrator of the Standardized Field Sobriety Tests. He is a graduate of the National College for DUI Defense 2011 Summer Session at Harvard Law School.
Licensed for 13 years
State
WA
Status
Active
Acquired
2009
Updated
11/25/2022
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Contact Christopher
Puget Law Group
3201 1st Ave South
Suite 200
Seattle, WA, 98134
Reviews
4.9
/ 5.0
63 customer reviews
Posted by Brooke
| December 29, 2022
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Great Attorney
I was concerned over potential legal action that may occur and contacted Puget Law Group to speak to an attorney on Christmas Eve - within 10-15 minutes Chris Kattenhorn called me to see if it was an emergency or to set up a better time to speak later that day. He called back at the time we set and gave good advice for where we currently were in the situation. He's extremely communicative and helped ease anxiety during a stressful time. I'd recommend Chris and Puget Law Group to anyone looking for advice/representation.
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Posted by anonymous
| August 12, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Call Chris if you need an awesome Lawyer!
Sometime you get in a pickle and need an attorney. Chris is awesome! He was professional, responsive and communicated very clearly. He has a great team. I was very satisfied with the final outcome and sentencing of my case. I was very pleased with Chris and his team. He even has a sense of humor that made this dark time of my life brighter.
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Posted by anonymous
| July 10, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best in the biz!
Chris is hands down the best DUI attorney you will find in WA! He will spend countless hours working for you to get the job done and done right. Chris helped me through a lengthy DUI process that seemed like it would never end and he went above and beyond to make sure I received the best outcome possible even when it appeared I was going to get the books thrown at me. Chris and his team are super patient, responsive at all hours of the day/night, and they always have your best interest at heart. Chris is a true servant to his clients! Don’t mess around with something that can ruin your life. Hire Chris, you won’t regret it!
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Posted by Heather
| October 14, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Can’t imagine going through such a challenging time with anyone else.
I was referred to Chris by the towing company that impounded my car. They said he came highly recommended. I took their advice and I am so glad I did. Chris is not only knowledgeable and professional, he has a very positive attitude and warm smile that put me at ease during a very scary time. His support team kept me abreast of how my case was proceeding and was always happy to assist in any way.
If you also find yourself in the position of needing an attorney, do yourself a favor and retain Chris. You’ll be glad you did.
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Posted by anonymous
| October 8, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
The best!
Kris Spent time with me Andhelp me get through My Ignition interlock issue. He advised me correctly in was very ingenious on his advice. I would recommend Mr.katterhorn to anyone who needsa criminal justice attorney. He is just amazing!
Posted by anonymous
| February 24, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Attorney
Chris was referred to me by one of my friends to take care of a complex situation I was in. I hired him on the first consultation itself. Chris is an excellent attorney to work with. He was friendly, sincere, honest, compassionate, and educated me well every step of the process. He negotiated my situation very well with the public prosecutor and was able to get me the best possible outcome. He kept me updated constantly on the progress of the negotiation. He also represented me on DOL hearing and got that dismissed. He always responded to my calls and texts at any time whether it was day or evening or weekend without fail. My situation involved in WA state but I reside in another state. The end process at DOL caused multiple issues in error on my driving record in the state I reside. Chris worked with the court and DOL to immediately rectify the issues. I couldn't be more than happy. His office staff were very sincere and provided me with reminders of court dates and any information that I needed. Thank you Chris for all your help!!!
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Posted by Troy
| October 31, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Well worth it
I created a bad situation for myself on a night of partying. Chris walked me through the whole process, and was there with me every step of the way. He is excellent and I got the outcome I desired. I would definitely recommend Chris to defend you.
Posted by AT
| November 14, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceeds other lawyers in the area
Words can't express how happy I am with Chris and his work! He was able to do what other lawyers doubted was possible... he represented me at my DOL hearing and got it dismissed! I talked to 4 other high-ranking DUI attorneys in the area, and they did not sound confident about the DOL hearing. They only wanted to talk about the criminal case, but I wanted to fight for my license. When I met with Chris, he sounded the most qualified and confident out of them all.
Aside from this, I felt he exceeded all my expectations compared to the other lawyers for these reasons: price, familiarity with the local court, law precedents, arresting officer protocol, and last but not least, genuine kindness!
I encourage everyone to do your research about your case and pick the best possible lawyer to represent you (Chris)!
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Posted by Savannah
| May 31, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
CHRIS SHOULD GET A BEST DUI LAWYER AWARD
Chris was amazing. I called him enquiring about his services and he called me back within 30 minutes and we made an appointment to meet. I had a tough case and he did everything in his power to make sure that we could get it reduced. I had an interesting where someone that I knew called the cops on me as a hate act after leaving their house and I would have never even known that unless Chris got the 911 Call record from the operating system (which was not an easy task for him) but he got it and that started to build our case. He was awesome! Calmed my anxiety and him and I would even text when he was with other clients and he re assured me with confidence that he was going to get this taken care of. So professional, his receptionist would call and remind me of appointments and court dates that we had. It really was a flawless experience considering how scary it was and the circumstances. Fortunately he was recommended to me by a friend and I have and will continue to recommend him as an amazing experienced kind and flawless lawyer. Thank you Chris for all of your help! I cannot express enough gratitude for how you handled the situation and what you did for me.
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Posted by Greg
| May 15, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Kind, Supercompetent, and Effective
It is truly a great pleasure to express my deep gratitude to Christopher Kattenhorn and Matthew Knauss, for their exemplary work in representing me in my recent DUI case.
Although I never entertained the slightest doubt as to my ultimate vindication, their serene composure throughout was still reassuring. I recommend either and/or both in the highest possible terms.
Finally, although I am not an attorney--and don't even play one on TV!--I offer my own considered layman's view that if you believe that you have been wrongfully charged with DUI, fight with all the resources that you can muster. Don't take a plea bargain unless there are more pressing claims against your resources. I did that once, several years ago--and have regretted it ever since.
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Posted by anonymous
| April 30, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Christopher was wonderful
Christopher called me back the same day even on a Sunday and got me the assistance that I was looking for. He was pleasant and informative and answered all of my questions. Thank you
Posted by Hosea
| October 12, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Above and beyond
Chris is fantastic! He is very knowledgeable and professional.
My situation was not the best, I'm not proud of it.
Every time I talked with Chris I was put at ease, and I got a sweet deal considering my circumstances.
Also he has an amazing team behind him who were always there to answer my questions, point me in the right direction and help me out when needed.
Chris and his team not only helped me with the court issues, but also are helping me live a better life now!
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Posted by Maria
| July 4, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Hoping Not to Need you again-but Great Service
Other than the ocasdionsl traffic delays (which we have no control over), Chris was not just professional but friendly as well. Very easy to talk to.
I've got your card and will recommend whenever the need arises to friends/family. Thank you for helping make this learning experience as painless as possible.
Posted by anonymous
| June 25, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Hire Chris!!
When I made a bad choice to drive under the influence and get into a car accident, someone recommended Chris because of his record in the city of Kirkland and because of his personality. This unfortunate event took place right around Thanksgiving and Chris went out of his way to meet me in his offices while they were closed for the holiday weekend. Immediately I knew I wanted him to represent me. I can't say enough good things about he or his counterparts, but what I believe to be the most important part of my review is that my DUI was knocked down to a reckless driving charge, with no jail time. I blew over two times the legal limit. This outcome is due to his efforts. He will not fail you and he will be there to answer all of your questions and give you confidence in the outcome.
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Posted by anonymous
| June 13, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A truly dedicated attorney and human being........
In working with Chris for almost a year, I have come to learn he is extremely professional and truly cares about his client. This care results in the high level of dedication to his client. Any time I would call Chris for a status update, legal and/or court questions or general guidance he was always knowledge about the case and provided answers that I understood. There were situations in which we had to appear in court with little notice, but Chris was always prepared in order to receive a positive outcome. His support, direction and patience are greatly appreciated and will always be remembered. Because of Chris our son is now pursing his life long dream.
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Posted by anonymous
| December 3, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The very best
Chris made a bad/unfortunate situation into the best possible outcome for me! I hired him, and can not be more thankful that I did! He went above and beyond, and I felt comfortable with him from day one, he fought long and hard for me and we came out on top! I will forever be grateful for the hard work he put in, and recommend Chris and only Chris from here on out!!!
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Posted by anonymous
| October 14, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
THE BEST.
From start to finish Chris not only demonstrated exceptional knowledge and service with handling my DUI, but he showed sincere compassion, which sets him apart from the rest, making me feel like i wasn't just another case. He is well spoken, educated, and just damn good at his job. He was always available, sincere, and i feel like i got the best attorney for my situation. I highly recommend Chris above all else and strongly advise his services!
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Posted by Anthony Alaman
| May 25, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Awesome awesome awesome.
In December 2015 I was pulled over and arrested for DUI. After looking around at a few lawyers I decided to go to Chris Kattenhorn and could not have been more pleased with my decision. Chris was knowledgeable, extremely friendly and quick to help me get through the procedures of court and with his help we were able to get my sentence reduced down to negligence 1. All for a competitive and reasonable price that included a monthly payment plan. Him and everyone in his office were friendly and made this entire process as quick and painless as one could ask for during such a difficult time. I would highly recommend that anyone having to deal with a DUI call Chris, seriously great.
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Posted by anonymous
| April 25, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
ONE OF THE BEST!!!
On St Patrick's day 2010 I was pulled over and well you know the rest of the story. I searched for an attorney and hired the best attorney in Washington. Of course he was all is ads were in every men's restroom in every bar I went to .
I soon found out that it was not the case as I sat in court many times being the last one there waiting. Long story short he was not a fighter and I got bad advise. Well it would never happen again so no worries. Wrong, Aug 23rd 2016 it happened again and I was devastated and knew I would lose my job do jail time etc. etc. . I was given a card for Chris form the impound yard and was hesitant. I called we made an appointment and his 1st words don't worry, relax we will get through this. My last case was still open so I had plenty to worry about. Chris walked me through the process and was with me every step of the way. Always on time always professional and I got into a deferred program and all the while he monitored my last case on a weekly basis and by the grace of god it got closed with no Revocation. Chris continues to check in just to make sure that all is ok and if I need anything.
Chris is the epitome of a good attorney and his staff is top notch and very professional. Words cannot express how pleased I am that I hired Chris and I would Highly Recommend him to friends,family or whomever may be reading this.
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Posted by anonymous
| March 25, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A Top-Notch Attorney That Produces Results
I normally don't write reviews. However, after Chris' measured guidance and zealous advocacy, I feel compelled to share my experience with others.
I am an honest, law-abiding citizen. However, last year, I made a mistake. On the advice of a colleague, I called Chris. This was the best decision I could have made.
Always the consummate professional, he immediately met with me while I was in jail awaiting arraignment. He was there for me through every step of the process and developed a strategy which resulted in the dismissal of my case.
Mistakes happen - even to good people. But with effective counsel, you can weather the storm and ensure that the repercussions of that mistake are minimized. For me, Chris did just that. I highly recommend his services.
- A Grateful Man
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Cost
Rates
- Free Consultation 90 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card
Resume
AVVO RATING
10.0
(Superb)
Avvo Rating
Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not.
What determines Avvo Rating?
Experience & background
Years licensed, work experience, education
Legal community recognition
Peer endorsements, associations, awards
Legal thought leadership
Publications, speaking engagements
Discipline
Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
Avvo Rating levels
- 10.0 - 9.0 Superb
- 8.9 - 8.0 Excellent
- 7.9 - 7.0 Very Good
- 6.9 - 6.0 Good
- 5.9 - 5.0 Average
- 4.9 - 4.0 Concern
- 3.9 - 3.0 Caution
- 2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution
- 1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution
Work Experience
- Partner
- Cowan Kirk Kattenhorn
- 2014 - Present
- Attorney-at-Law
- Cowan Kirk Gaston Wolff
- 2014 - 2014
- Attorney-at-Law
- Cowan Kirk Gaston
- 2010 - 2014
- Contract Attorney
- Stein, Lotzkar and Starr PS
- 2010 - 2010
- Non-Profit Merger Coordinator
- Loveall Price & Associates
- 2009 - 2009
- Practicing Legal Intern- Rule 9
- Stewart, Beall, MacNichols, & Harmell
- 2007 - 2009
Education
- National College of DUI Defense
- Summer Session
- 2011
- La Pier & Associates
- Qualified Administrator of Standardized Field Sobriety Tests
- 2010
- Seattle University School of Law
- Juris Doctor
- 2008
- Seattle Pacific University
- Bachelor of Arts
- 2003
Associations
- King County Bar Association
- Member
- N/A
- Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- Member
- N/A
- American Bar Association
- Member
- N/A
- National College of DUI Defense
- Member
- N/A
- American Bar Association Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Committee
- Committee Member
- N/A
- American Bar Association, Criminal Justice Section
- Member
- N/A
Languages Spoken
- English
Awards
- Rising Star
- Super Lawyers
- 2019
- Rising Star
- SuperLawyers
- 2018
- Rising Star
- SuperLawyers
- 2017
- Rising Star
- Super Lawyers
- 2016
- Top 100 Trial Lawyers
- National Trial Lawyers
- 2015
- Top 40 Under 40
- National Trial Lawyers
- 2015
- Top 100 Trial Lawyers
- National Trial Lawyers
- 2014
- Top 40 Under 40
- National Trial Lawyers
- 2014
- Rising Star
- Super Lawyers
- 2012
Speaking Engagements
- Oh Behave! Etiquette for Young Professionals
- Ettiquette in personal and professional life
- N/A
Attorney endorsements
Received
(20)
Given
(5)
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Chris's creative approach to criminal defense and his ability to think on his feet are just some of the qualities that make him a powerful advocate for his clients."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Apr 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"In only a short period of time, Mr. Kattenhorn has unquestionably shown a remarkable level of competence and dedication in all aspects of his work, which encompasses several areas of practice that require high levels of both traits. I sincerely believe that it is only a matter of time before Mr. Kattenhorn is in the elite category of lawyers in his field. I endorse Chris Kattenhorn."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Christopher. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | May 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Christopher is an aggressive and compassionate advocate for his clients. He understands the complicated nuances of DUI defense and is able to focus in on the relevant legal issues and facts to get the best possible results for his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have seen Mr. Kattenhorn practicing law in King County over the last several years. He is a bright, practical and effective attorney who demonstrates great skills and maturity. I know that he is hard working. His clients always seem well advised which is so important in our area of law. Chris is knowledgeable and not afraid of a good fight. He has all of the tools of a great attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Chris is a strong advocate to his clients. I have seen him advocating for his clients in numerous cases and he is always prepared, knowledgable and gets great results. His clients can rest assured that they are in good hands."
DUI and DWI Attorney | May 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I've been very impressed with Chris for years, ever since I watched him passionately advocate for his clients as a public defender. As the years have passed, I have watched him continue to strive to achieve the best possible results. He doesn't give up or give in. He's now working with a highly respected group of attorneys, and has continued to increase his skills and his presence in the defense community. He is an excellent attorney and you would be in extremely good hands if you hired him to defend you!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Kattenhorn is extremely knowledgeable in the DUI practice area, as well as other areas of criminal defense. Along with his skill and experience, Mr. Kattenhorn brings dedication and passion to his representation of clients."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Oct 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Chris is a great advocate for his clients. He has a passionate court room presence!"
DUI and DWI Attorney | Mar 07
Relationship: Co-worker
"Chris is an excellent attorney. What he may lack in experience, he more than makes up for in his tenacity and creativity. His quick mastering of applicable case law and techniques is remarkable to say the least. Most of all, Chris has what it truly takes to be successful in this business, integrity and passion. I highly recommend Mr. Kattenhorn, you won't be dissapointed."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 15
Relationship: Supervised lawyer
"Chris is a determined and dedicated advocate. His vibrant personality wins over his opponents and juries, making him both an effective negotiator and trial attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Chris is a young aggressive lawyer who can help you obtain a great result in your case."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Sep 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Chris Kattenhorn is an exceptional lawyer who is rapidly building a solid reputation among the criminal defense bar. He has a very sharp legal mind and a strong courtroom presence. In addition, he's clearly developed very good relationships with his clients and his peers. I would recommend Chris to anyone in need of an excellent criminal defense lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work. His clients are in good hands."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Chris is a zealous advocate for his clients."
DUI and DWI Attorney | May 04
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have known Chris for the past several months and am very impressed with his character, knowledge of the law and ability to achieve fantastic results for his clients. He has an excellent presence in the courtroom as an advocate for those accused.
In addition to witnessing Chris in action, I have employed his services for coverage assistance. Every time he has appeared on my behalf, my clients have been very impressed with his abilities in the courtroom. He is truly a zealous and compassionate attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Chris has a huge personality and heart. He truly cares for his clients and is the ultimate professional. Chris has a genuine demeanor which allows open communication between he and his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 29
Relationship: Co-worker
"Christopher is a tireless advocate who goes above and beyond his duties as an attorney to zealously defend the rights of our clients. Not only does Chris have extensive criminal defense experience, he also has a great attitude and tremendous enthusiasm for his practice. He exhibits all the qualities of a great attorney, and I am proud to be his colleague."
DUI and DWI
Litigation
Litigation
DUI and DWI
Criminal defense
Avvo Contributions
This attorney hasn't created any legal answers in Q&A or legal guides recently on Avvo.
Christopher Kattenhorn
DUI and DWI Attorney
Seattle, WA
Licensed for 13 years
Free Consultation