Chalmers Carey Johnson

Employment and labor Attorney at Port Orchard, WA

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Resume

A "special attorney"

Excellent

About Chalmers

Learn Chalmers’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Employment and labor

70%

Plaintiff - Employment law, Discrimination, harassment, ADA, Title VII, ADEA, Overtime, FLSA, wrongful terminations, Administrative, Federal and State cases

27 years
Personal injury

30%

Plaintiff/ litigation of - motor vehicle accidents, premises liability, "slip and fall cases" personal injury

27 years

Chalmers Johnson has extensive trial experience in South Carolina and Western Washington. He has tried over 100 cases to verdict before juries and many more before Judges (in what are known as bench trials or administrative hearings). Mr. Johnson focuses his practice on helping people who have been injured or who have work related problems (representing mostly emplyoees, and small business owners in need of guidance). He has extensive experience in civil rights and employment law and is a fierce advocate for the rights of employees. Mr. Johnson also enjoys working with businesses concerned about complying with employment laws.

During the six or seven years, Mr. Johnson has been heavily involved in representing federal workers in disciplinary hearings, MSPB appeals, EEO claims and lawsuits, and DODCAF clearance review cases. With a practice in Port Orchard, he has helped many clients from the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and works to maintain a good relationship with the Shipyard's Unions.

An experienced appellate attorney, Mr. Johnson has argued before appeals courts in South Carolina and federal appeals panels for the Fourth Circuit in Virginia more than 30 times. He has argued before the SC Supreme Court on eleven occasions. In Washington, Mr. Johnson has fought appeals in the 9th Circuit and the Federal Appellate Court as well as the Washington Court of Appeals, Div. II.

Chalmers Johnson began his career in South Carolina in 1995 clerking for a personal injury attorney. He soon focused on civil rights and employment law and then opened his own law firm in 2000, Chalmers Johnson Law Firm, LLC, with two offices, and several lawyers, serving all counties in South Carolina. They focused on employment law/ civil rights cases and Chalmers soon began to represent clients in state and federal appeals courts. In 2007 he sold his practice in South Carolina and moved to Washington State where he practiced in the same areas with law firms in Tacoma, Silverdale, and Port Orchard, WA. With the advent of the COVID pandemic, Mr. Johnson decided to move his practice to his home office, under the name "Longshot Law, Inc."

Bar Admissions

State of South Carolina, 1996

U.S. District Court, South Carolina Division 1997

U.S. Court of Appeals, Fourth Circuit 1999

Supreme Court of the United States of America, 2003

State of Washington, 2008

U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington, 2010

Education

University of South Carolina, School of Law, Columbia, South Carolina
J.D. – 1996

Winthrop University, Rock Hill, South Carolina
B.A. – 1993, cum laude
Major: Political science, Minor: sociology

Employment History

2013 – Current

Private Practice, Longshot Law, Inc., Port Orchard, WA

- Personal injury, Litigation, Civil Rights, Employment Law, Appellate Practice, Federal MSPB, EEO, DODCAF clearance

2010-2013

J. Michael Koch & Assoc., Silverdale, WA

- Personal Injury, Litigation, Employment Law, Appellate Practice

2008-2009

Vail, Cross & Associates, P.A., Tacoma, WA
- Personal injury, Litigation

2008

West Corporation, Bar-Bri, Seattle, WA
- Staff Counsel for Bar-Bri Washington State Bar preparation

2000-2007

Chalmers Johnson Law Firm, LLC
- Owner, Employment law, Litigation, Appellate practice

1996-2000

Law Firm of Steven Wukela, Jr., Florence, SC
- Personal Injury, Litigation, Employment Law, Appellate Practice

1995-1996

Walter Brooks Law Firm, Columbia, SC
- Paralegal/clerk – Personal Injury

Photos and videos

Licensed for 26 years

State WA

Status Active

Acquired 2008

Updated 03/18/2023

State SC

Status Good Standing

Acquired 1996

Updated 02/22/2023

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

Contact Chalmers

Longshot Law, Inc., P.S.

P.O. Box 1575

Port Orchard, WA, 98366

Message Get Directions

Reviews

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4.9 / 5.0

13 customer reviews

5 Star

92%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Posted by Melanie | January 24, 2022

A "special attorney"

Having worked in the legal field for 25 years has brought me enough knowledge to know a "special attorney". Chalmers Johnson is one of them. It goes without saying that he knows his profession, but special in the way that only few are: one who truly cares, has integrity, and is eager to be helpful as possible.

Posted by Gail | July 1, 2021

Excellent

Both my sons were fired unfairly by the Federal government. This man knows his way around the laws and finding the truth. Both were rehired. Miracle worker!!

Posted by Radu | November 1, 2020

Chalmers has offered the support you'd expect from a close friend - generous, attentive, knowledgeable, responsive

Due to events we're all too familiar with, I recently had to work with a labor attorney and Chalmers gave us everything we needed through very anxious and stressful times, and more. I've been extremely lucky to be working with very sympathetic and exceedingly generous lawyers when I, very occasionally, needed - not for being in trouble, but just needing expert and precise professional support - and Chalmers has been my lucky strike this time. He's responded to our initial consultation, then there was additional support through some follow ups, and further he never ceased responding even outside of a contractual obligation. I truly feel he took it as a personal obligation to make sure we are best advised and positioned throughout our process, and just that we always feel supported and in good shape. Simply outstanding. I could not recommend Chalmers more.

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Posted by Tom | March 25, 2020

Grateful I found Chalmers Johnson

Chalmers gave me excellent assistance and advice during the fall of 2019 regarding a very difficult employment situation. He is compassionate, competent and personable. I was relieved that the situation was resolved in my favor without ever having to go to court. His fees are more than fair.

Posted by Ernestine (Tina) McKnight | November 16, 2018

Fearless, Dedicated and Loyal - A True Advocate

Many years ago Mr. Johnson represented me in a racial discrimination case involving my employer in SC. He was a true advocate, dedicated to the cause. Needless to say, he won that case, just as I thought he would, though it was only my word against the other side...and one great attorney, If you are searching for an attorney that is dedicated, loyal and does his homework., he is that attorney.

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Posted by Jamie | August 18, 2017

Helped so much

Chalmers helped me with a Wrongful Termination/ Disability claim when I was fired because of my dyslexia. Chalmers was so caring and helpful throughout the whole process and even got my job back for me. Several other lawyers I had called refused to talk to me or just hung up on me but Chalmers was willing to hear my story, then fight to get me back in my job. I will always be indebted to him.

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Posted by Nathaniel P. | November 16, 2015

Awesome fighting lawyer

So I came in contact with Chalmers Oct. 2014 after a personal injury with a major franchise.. Chalmers was honest and upfront about the procedure. The person we dealt with was a difficult person but he was on them almost daily. This injury costed me EVERYTHING..my marriage, home, employment Chalmers faught hard. .after a long year Chalmers got the answer we needed and settled for a decent amount..fees n everything was up front..no hidden costs Want a hard lawyer who won't give up..this is the guy...Chalmers I'd use again for any case..

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Posted by Tia | September 9, 2014

Awesome lawyer!

Chalmers is by far the best lawyer. He was personable, attentive, easy to reach, always responded in a timely manner, gave awesome advice and made me feel confident in the actions that were being taken. I would recommend Chalmers to anyone looking for a great employment lawyer because he knows his stuff and he includes you in every step of the process.

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Posted by Megan | April 14, 2014

"FORMER CLIENT AND NEVER HAPPIER"

I hired Chalmers after I was wrongfully terminated from my job. He took my case and soon after that my former employer offered me my job back and a few perks. THANK YOU CHALMERS! I AM HAPPIER THEN EVER!

Posted by anonymous | January 17, 2014

Fights Like a Tiger for His Clients

Chalmers Johnson represented me in a personal injury case. He fought like a tiger for me to get justice. Fierce in the courtroom, he’s pleasant and easy to work with during case preparation. He was with me each step of the way and kept me informed, well-prepared, and comfortable throughout the entire process. I’ve dealt with other attorneys in other capacities so I am familiar with what it takes to make a good attorney: experience, legal knowledge and a passion for the law, fearlessness, ethics, the ability to listen, and the desire to zealously represent the client. Chalmers Johnson has all these qualities. He truly cares about his clients. I give him my highest recommendation.

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Posted by anonymous | February 5, 2013

One in a Million

AS a client, I am happy to recommend Mr. Johnson. He is approachable, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to meet. He is genuinely interested in achieving the best results for his clients. Fierce contender! Fights to win!

Posted by anonymous | January 30, 2013

A great listener!!!

I really appreciate that Mr. Johnson took the time to really listen to me, and his advice was really helpful.

Posted by Eddie | June 28, 2017

Federal Employment Discrimination.

My review is on going? I met Chalmers in 2009 through a friend, and in short found he is knowledgeable in Federal Employment Law. He is a unique attorney because as a client my persona is East Coast assertive?! For example, I am a Philosophical person by nature and question everything, right or wrong. I had over 16 years of Federal Service, and subsequently discriminated on numerous occasions. To Date I am about to lose all I worked for. However, Even though I'm perceived as a hard A**? I am law abiding! I believe deep down Chalmers is the most knowledgeable Attorney I know in relation to Federal Employment law, and is easy to talk with when he sees you! Though I worry 24-7 about the progress of my case due to be heard in FEB/2018 Tacoma Federal District Court. As a Disabled ARMY Veteran would recommend Chalmers for all Veterans, and or Federal Employees with Discrimination concerns. Also as a 20 year plus Life Member of AMVETS Post #1 Tacoma, WA. and as a proud person who served my country in several Federal Venues to exceed 20 plus years. I fully recommend him as a Attorney with an array of experience to adjudicate any Federal Employee/labor/discrimination case with a never give up attitude. Even under pressure from me( Assertive Client) :) he stays calm. Though he's yet to win my large case! I feel deep down he will prevail. I only hope to survive the Government collusion by following the rules of Law in relation to EEO?(In which my employer did not follow)! I was still forced out with all my years of service, and am devastated from the experience. However, Hats off to Mr. Chalmers Johnson, you have helped me become humble man. Eddie

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 8.4 (Excellent)

Work Experience

Of Counsel
GSJones Law Group, P.S.
2013 - Present

Senior Litigation Attorney
Law Offices Of J.Michael Koch & Associates
2010 - Present

Litigation Attorney, Personal Injury
Vail, Cross & Associates
2008 - 2009

Staff Counsel
Bar-Bri for Washington
2008 - 2008

Owner, Senior Litigator
Chalmers Johnson Law Firm, LLC
2000 - 2007

Litigation Attorney
Law Firm of Steven Wukela, Jr.
1996 - 2000

Law Clerk
Walter J. Brooks, Attorney at Law
1995 - 1996

View all work experience

Education

University of South Carolina School of Law
JD
1996

Winthrop University
BA - Bachelor of Arts
1993

Porter-Gaud School
1990

Legal Cases

Thompson v. Associated Petroleum Products
Verdict for the Plaintiff $280,000.00

Hurley v. Safeway
Plaintiff Verdict

Associations

National Multiple Sclerosis Society
Consulting attorney
1999 - Present

Languages Spoken

English

French

Honors and Awards

Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2014

Pro Bono Award
South Carolina Bar
1998

J. Woodrow Lewis Appellate Advocacy Award
Moot Court Bar, USC School of Law
1995

Publications

North Myrtle Beach Times
Attorney files EEOC complaint, Fights unemployment denial on behalf of Chief of Police
2006

Lawyers Weekly
Worker Could Get Trial on Emotional Distress Claims Over Vulgar Comments
2005

Lawyers Weekly
Verdict Vacated in Handbook Based Race Discrimination Case
2004

Lawyers Weekly
"High Court Reinstates Verdict in Constructive Discharge case: Handbook created jury question for at-will status"
2003

Lawyers Weekly
"Town's Personnel Manual Might Have Required Firing For Cause"
2003

The Post and Courier
Ex-dockworker's union official files lawsuit
2003

The Chronicle, South Carolina's Best African American Newspaper
Black Homeowners Feel the Pain, Lack of Compensation in Bridge Construction Project
2003

The Post and Courier
Uprooted Man Files Suit Over Bridge Project
2003

Florence Morning News
Former Central Park manager sues over firing: claims firing was for refusing to end a lesbian relationship"
2002

The Gazette
Lawsuit filed against Berkley County Jail
2002

The Sun News
North Myrtle Beach Detective Files Suit : Alleges termination in violation of the First Amendment for discussing unionizing the police department
2001

Florence Morning News
"Local Gay Man sues Wal-Mart, Alleges harassment, physical abuse"
2000

Florence Morning News
"Officer files suit against Florence: Woman claims discrimination"
1998

Florence Morning News
"Civic Center Sex Suit"
1997

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Speaking Engagements

Employment Law class - Guest Speaker
Employment law and Civil Rights - the Plaintiff's Perspective
2002

National Multiple Sclerosis Society regional meeting
Employment law - The Americans with Disabilities Act and Multiple Sclerosis
1999

Florence Darlington Tech Paralegal Program
Employment law - Job opportunities for Paralegals
1999

South Carolina Bar Association Annual Meeting
Pro Bono criminal and family law
1998

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Attorney endorsements

Received (3)

Given (3)

Endorse Chalmers

David Nauheim

Employment and labor Attorney | Apr 19
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have worked with Chalmers on a number of cases. He is of-counsel in my firm. He fearless and brilliant. He is a litigation ninja and has over 100 jury trials under his belt. When I am not sure how to handle an issue, he is the first one I call. If he takes your case, you can be sure he is going to fight for you, no matter how tough the odds."

John Myers

Personal injury Attorney | Dec 11
Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"I endorse this lawyer. He knows the law, and he is tenacious and efficient. Having worked for him as an employee and known him as a colleague, I trust him implicitly. He has a friendly, level-headed, approachable personality that facilitates an excellent rapport with his clients. He works very effectively with his adversaries and the courts in striving to accomplish the goals of his clients."