Shawn Timothy Newman

Education Attorney at Olympia, WA

About
Contact
Reviews
Cost
Resume

Shawn Newman is exceptional!j

I’ve known Shawn for about 20 years. He has been a local bar leader, particularly with organizing legal education events that are mandatory for us lawyers. Shawn has a reputation for his hilarious Business Law lectures at St. Martin’s University, where he’s been an adjunct professor for many years. Shawn’s commitment to zealously represent his clients is legendary. For example, he represented an owner of a sports bar who did not believe the indoor smoking ban was fair or legal. Shawn’s is dogged defense of Frankie, the owner, continued even though client actively broke the law by allowing smoking in his “private club.” The State wasn’t having any of it and closed down the bar. It’s not always easy to represent folks who deliberately violate the law. These clients are some of the most challenging, as they basically believe their individual rights trump the citizens’ rights to health and safety. Frankie died not long ago, perhaps because his right to smoke killed him. Shawn Newman is a very bright and creative attorney. He is fearless, thorough and will work until “the last dog dies.” I am honored to be a friend of his.

Much obliged

About Shawn

Learn Shawn’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Education

40%

39 years
Constitutional

20%

39 years
Business

15%

39 years
Ethics and professional responsibility

15%

28 years
Employment and labor

10%

39 years

Greetings and Thank You for visiting my Avvo profile. My private practice is limited to cases I feel passionate about, be it civil rights, privacy, government accountability or special education. I am a sole practitioner in Olympia, Washington. I am also adjunct professor at Saint Martin's University, South Puget Sound Community College and Pierce College, where i teach a variety of law courses, including business law, commercial transactions, civil liberties and various paralegal courses. For more information, go to my web page at:

Photos and videos

Licensed for 38 years

State WA

Status Active

Acquired 1984

Updated 02/01/2023

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

Contact Shawn

Shawn Timothy Newman

2507 Crestline Dr Nw

Olympia, WA, 98502-4327

Get Directions

Reviews

Write A Review

5.0 / 5.0

44 customer reviews

5 Star

100%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Posted by Katherine | April 1, 2022

Shawn Newman is exceptional!j

Read less

Posted by Stefanie | March 24, 2021

Much obliged

Shawn Newman helped me work out a conflict with my employer. He reviewed relevant documents and helped me interpret the key issues and concerns to address. His prompt correspondence was reassuring and his advice was sound. Working with him gave me confidence.

Posted by Scott | January 16, 2021

Efficient Arbitration

I have known Shawn for several years and just had an arbitration with him where he was excellent. Shawn identified the issues, and provided the parties with some worthwhile communication prior to the arbitration that made the arbitration much more efficient and effective. Shawn did a great job.

Posted by Teri | April 19, 2020

Consumer Protection

Recently, I sought legal advice; lucky for me, I contacted Attorney Shawn T. Newman. Although Shawn didn’t feel the need to represent me, Shawn was extremely helpful directing me to public resources via Consumer Protection websites; both locally and nationally. In addition, Shawn offered other avenues that I hadn’t considered. Shawn was pleasant, understanding and explained things in terms that I could easily understand. I strongly recommend Attorney Shawn T. Newman

Read less

Posted by Heidi | February 5, 2018

Consultation on a Delinquent Refund

After four months of back-and-forth between myself and a private company who would not return my credit of over $8k, I reached out to Mr. Newman for help. Unlike previous experiences, Mr. Newman advised several options I could undertake on my own with the company, before involving him and taking any legal action. His guidance was exceptional and exact; and it worked. It was refreshing to know Mr. Newman is not one to plunge headlong into litigation if it can be avoided. It was also refreshing to have someone to support me in being my own advocate. I highly recommend Mr. Newman.

Read less

Posted by Marc | February 6, 2017

Excellent Attorney

Shawn Newman provided great legal service when our constitutional rights were violated. He demonstrated his ability to start working immediately, instead of dragging the situation out. Shawn is a no frills attorney who is an advocate for his clients. I’ve recommended Shawn Newman too many people as an attorney. If your legal problems are outside of Shawn’s area of expertise, he’s provided names and resources to help the client solve their problem. Shawn is a proven advocate for his clients, who continues to go the extra mile to help defend his client’s freedoms and legal rights. If you’re in need of a constitutional and civil rights attorney, Shawn is the attorney for you! Marc

Read less

Posted by Jack | January 4, 2017

Great Attorney

Years of experience. Very through with his research. Very friendly. Provides clear and understandable explanations of the issue and alternatives. I trust his judgement and commitment to me as a client.

Posted by Ann | August 11, 2016

Deserves 10 Stars!

Shawn Newman is a rare attorney in the legal world. His deep committment, timely follow through and positive results in combination with his excellent depth and breadth of the law, for me personally, resolved a legal situation with the best results possible. And, all done by Shawn in a reassuring, positive manner interjected at times, when he knew I needed it, with a shot of killer humor. Thank you very much Shawn.

Read less

Posted by anonymous | February 26, 2016

PDC matter

When I was harassed by the Public Disclosure Commission, Attorney Newman helped my innocence of the charge shine through to the agency. Complaint dismissed. Thanks Shawn!

Posted by anonymous | July 23, 2015

Misdemeanor

Shawn represented me and a couple friends for some misdemeanor charges in Othello, WA. He did so pro bono, and took care of everything within 5 minutes of meeting the prosecutor. He is a quality attorney and an even better person. Nothing but good things to say

Posted by CJ | May 30, 2015

Shawn has your Back!

I was so fortunate to have been introduced to Shawn. He is completely & sincerely behind individuals courageous enough to fight to defend their Constitutional rights and individual civil liberties. You are no longer alone with Shawn Newman in your corner. He is not intimidated by those who seemingly act with impunity while trampling your rights, purposely reducing your property values, limiting property use and/or seizing it. Property rights are far from his only concern. If one chooses to stand up to, or is threatened by, those in power, Shawn won't flinch when the going gets tough while they pull their typical intimidation tactics. In fact, those he opposes fear him and for good reason. He is, quite frankly, a brilliant attorney and will navigate the raging waters with ease, all the while putting your mind to rest along the way. I would not want any other attorney in my corner.

Read less

Posted by anonymous | May 15, 2015

A True Master in the area of Foreclosure Defense

Shawn is a master in the area of foreclosure defense and more specifically the best I have heard of on the subject of figuring out who really owns your mortgage loan. He did a very informative podcast on Mandleman Matters, which is how I found out about him. He is also well connected with other legal experts in our State of Washington and gives out good quality referrals to other lawyers and case law information that has been very helpful to me. Anyone in his local Thurston County area should consider themselves lucky to become his client.

Read less

Posted by anne | April 3, 2015

client -small business

My small business got sued for breach of contract. Attorney Newman helped get the lawsuit dismissed in less than one month. He provided excellent service at a fair price and with a smile.

Posted by Stanley Chambers | March 4, 2015

Business Attorney

Shawn has been our business attorney for almost 10 years. His professionalism and knowledge is second to none. I would highly recommend him for all legal matters.

Posted by jason | September 3, 2013

superb representation

To summarize my experience in a word I'd say terrific. Terrific service, terrific response time, I was well informed on all that was going on and Shawn Newman saved my butt big time. A great and affordable investment, I'd highly recommend Shawn to anyone who was in need of an experienced and knowledgeable attorney.

Posted by anonymous | December 27, 2012

Aggresssive and Effective Advocate!!

Shawn is an aggressive and effective advocate but he won't waste your money picking unnecessary battles. Once he gets his teeth into your case however you will almost pity your opponent. He is very knowledgeable in many areas of law and has tremendous common sense which is a rare and valued trait. He has earned the respect of the community and has a posse of law students that adore him and follow him in and out of the courtroom. A rare gem!! I highly recommend his services!!!

Read less

Posted by Robert | September 13, 2012

Kowledgeable, focused, patient and exemplary conduct

Through the course of a difficult and challenging case that took several turns, Shawn kept us right on track. Sometimes he told us things we didn't want to hear, but I would rather know those items sooner rather than later. He was able to focus us on the strengths of our case, rather than on what the client perceived was the strength. Intuitive, kind, caring and professional would be the adjectives I would assign to Shawn.

Read less

Posted by Thomas | September 1, 2012

No detail was overlooked!

We had a bad experience with another attorney and his HIGH PRICED Bellevue group. Details were overlooked, we felt like we had fallen through the cracks, that our case was not important to them. Like so many others today, our home is worth less than we owe, dealing with megabanks and their teams of attorneys can be very difficult and expensive. Shawn took over our case, immediately negotiating with the bank attorneys. He got them to admit to illegal activities. He got us a settlement that paid all our legal fees and court costs. We have now been offered a loan modification with a large principle reduction and a long term low fixed interest rate! We can't say enough good things about Shawn Newman, his knowledge of the current U.S. housing crisis, the mortgage and banking industry, as well as forclosure law is , in my opinion, unsurpassed. We still get e-mail updates from him with court decisions and legal opinions on things that pertain to us .

Read less

Posted by Duane | March 18, 2012

Estate Advise

Shawn helped us regarding a dispute of an estate settlement. He helped us to concentrate on the facts and not the emotions of the situation. Family issues can be convoluted. The stress level was lessened because of Shawn's advise. We will definitely return to Shawn if any other legal issues arise for our family. We highly recommend him.

Read less

Posted by Rebecca | December 9, 2011

BWS-Newman saved my life!!!

I'm writing this review because Mr. Newman saved my life. I went in for my two hour schedual concueltation. After describing my problem, he figured out that I was suffering from BWS "Brain Worm Syndrom". He agreed to take my case, as soon as we can figure who gave them to me. I so recomoned Mr. Newman as the leading expert in brain worm syndrom. http://abcnews.go.com/Health/video?id=6307053

Read less

Response from Shawn Newman December 14, 2011

Not true albeit Rebecca may, indeed, have BWS

View all reviews

View less reviews

Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Adjunct Paralegal and Business Law Professor
South Puget Sound Community College
2011 - Present

Adjunct Business and MBA Commercial Law Professor
Saint Martin's University
2000 - Present

Attorney
Newman Law
1990 - Present

Adjunct Business Law Professor
Pierce College
2015 - 2017

General Counsel
Saint Martin's University
1989 - 2012

Staff Counsel
Washington State Senate Committe Services
1988 - 1989

College Counsel
The Evergreen State College
1987 - 1988

Assistant Attorney General
Washington State Attorney General's Office
1984 - 1987

View all work experience

Education

Notre Dame Law School
JD - Juris Doctor
1983

Ohio State University, Columbus
BSLHR
1980

Legal Cases

Ferguson v WSBA
Penalty Affirmed

In the Matter of Kenneth M. Jones, MD
Settled with WA. Dept of Health

In re Stephen K. Eugster
5-4 "win" reducing disbarment to suspension

View all legal cases

Associations

Washington State Bar Association & NW Justice Project
Home Foreclosure Legal Aid Project
2012 - Present

YMCA Youth & Government
Mock Trial Volunteer
2010 - Present

WSBA Home Foreclosure Legal Aid Project
Volunteer
2009 - Present

Washington State Bar Association
Continuing Education Committee
2008 - Present

Supreme Court of the United States
Member of the Bar
2008 - Present

Academy of Legal Studies in Business
2008 - Present

Academy of Legal Studies in Business
2007 - Present

American Civil Liberties Union
2006 - Present

Initiative & Referendum Institute
Washington State Director
2005 - Present

National Association of College and University Attorneys
1986 - Present

Washington State Bar Association
1984 - Present

Washington Courts Historical Society
Member
2013 - 2014

Thurston County Bar Association
Board Member & CLE Chair
2007 - 2010

Washington State Trial Lawyers Association
2000 - 2007

View all associations

Honors and Awards

CASTL
Carneige Foundation
2007

Pro Bono Service Recognition
Washington State Bar Association
2006

Editorial Board
Journal of College & University Law
2005

Research Editor
Journal of Legislation
1983

Fellowship
Notre Dame Law School White Center for Public Policy
1983

View all awards

Publications

Trial News Washington State Trial Lawyers
State anti-SLAPP law needs overhaul
2007

Evergreen Freedom Foundation
Time to arm citizens to combat government fraud
2004

213 F.3d 1132 (9th Cir. 2000)
Washington Initiatives Now v. Public Disclosure Commission
2000

Notre Dame Journal of Legislation
Tuition Tax Credits & Educational Vouchers
1983

Notre Dame Journal of Legislation
Taking Federalism on the Road
1983

View all publications

Speaking Engagements

Thurston County Bar Association
Legal Research and Writing
2014

Lacey Boom! October Forum Luncheon
Employment Law
2010

Radio Free Washington
Washington State Constitution
2009

Mock Trial State Competition
Trial Practice
2009

Constitution Day 2009
Constitutional Law - Guantanamo proceedings
2009

ANTSHE 12th Annual Conference
Avoiding Legal Pitfalls on the Path to Higher Education: taxes, bankruptcy & creditors
2009

ACLU South Sound/Olympia Chapter
SLAPP Suits: Getting Sued for Speaking Out!
2009

Youth & Government Mock Trial Competition
Trial Practice
2008

TVW Presents "How Does it Work? A Citizens' Guide to Democracy" Ballot Initiatives
Ballot Initiatives
2008

Constitution Day
Constitution
2008

Clarence Darrow: Crimes, Causes and the Courtroom
Clarence Darrow: Crimes, Causes and the Courtroom
2008

Brighter Tomorrows
Special Needs Clients; Special Education; Mental Health
2008

YMCA Mock Trial Competition
Mock Trial Judge
2007

Washington State Initiative & Referendum Symposium
Initiative & Referendum Law
2007

Clarence Darrow & Sir Thomas More
Justice, Morality & Ethics
2007

TCBA Luncheon CLE
SLAPP Suits
2006

Responsible Justice: Balancing Safety with Rehabilitation
Criminal Rehabilitation & Recidivism
2006

Inside Olympia
Initiatives & Referendum
2006

Constitution Day
Fundamental Rights & the "Nanny State"
2006

WSTLA Thurston County Roundtable
SLAPPS: Geting Sued For Speaking Out
2005

Constitution Day
Beyond the Patriot Act
2005

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (8)

Given (10)

Endorse Shawn

John Kesler

Arbitration Attorney | Jan 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Shawn's combination of legal experience, intelligence, and work ethic make him ideal to serve as arbitrator. He arbitrated an extremely contentious case for me and another local attorney recently and his approach was helpful in ensuring the proceedings were conducted in an efficient manner. Shawn treated both sides fairly and applied the law without prejudice as a good arbitrator should. Shawn was very well prepared at each stage of the proceedings and he got his decision to the parties quickly once the hearing concluded. I highly recommend Shawn as an arbitrator [and attorney]."

Michael Siegel

Constitutional Attorney | Feb 21
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. We worked together on a number of projects designed to impact public policy and encourage passage of legislation for the public good. We worked on petition drives together including a law designed to require performance audits to assess the waste, fraud and abuse in Washington state government. Shawn was a powerful ally in many of these efforts as a result of his outstanding work and experience as an attorney for the Washington State Senate and for Evergreen State College. I have had the opportunity to meet a number of Shawn's clients over the years, and without exception, this have been satisfied with his going above and beyond any reasonable standard of legal representation expectations to accomplish the best possible result for his clients. Shawn has appeared before the Washington Supreme Court and many believe he would make an excellent Supreme Court Justice. I offer my recommendation of Shawn to anyone seeking legal counsel in his areas of expertise."

Daniel McGookey

Unknown Attorney | Jul 11
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Shawn is a very thorough and dedicated lawyer. He is tenacious in his defense of homeowners with mortgage issues. I highly recommend him to those struggling for mortgage justice!"

Richard Walker

Constitutional Attorney | Jan 20
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Of course, his track record speaks for itself--but beyond that, when I approached him in regards to a matter of profound concern, not only to myself but to a number of other lawyers in the community, he gave generously of his time, and I was impressed with his ready knowledge and perspicacity. All in all, a credit to his profession, a servant to worthy causes."

Ron Meyers

Employment and labor Attorney | Jun 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Shawn is a great lawyer who is not afraid to take a controversial case -- simply because he believes it is the right thing to do. He is a smart, personable and zealous advocate. A great lawyer to have on your side!"

Adam Karp

Unknown Attorney | May 02
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Shawn brings a refreshingly personable, compassionate quality to diligent, quite capable legal representation. Over the past decade, I have come to know Shawn as a skilled and multifaceted advocate. I endorse his work and refer with confidence."

Joseph Scuderi

Constitutional Attorney | Mar 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. He is a leader in the State of Washington for promoting civil rights and personal liberty."

Jonathan Sprouffske

General practice Attorney | Mar 02
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Shawn continually strives to provide a high-quality level of representation for his clients. He is a great asset to the community. I have been privileged to teach courses with Shawn at St. Martin’s University, and am constantly amazed by his dedication to the practice of law."

View more endorsements