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Michael Grattan Thompson

Workers compensation Attorney at Spokane, WA

5.0   32 reviews

also known as Michael G. Thompson, Attorney at Law, PLLC

  • Licensed for 36 years
    State WA
    Acquired 1987
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

About Michael

Learn Michael’s areas of practice.

2
Practice areas
  1. Workers compensation
    90%
    Representing injured workers in the state of Washington for over 30 years.

    34 years

  2. Social Security & Disability
    10%
    Representing individuals who have been denied Social Security disability benefits.

    34 years

Michael has been fighting on behalf of injured workers in the State of Washington for over 30 years. He is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum which is a national organization of lawyers who have achieved a recovery of over a million dollars in just one case. Michael was co-counsel in a 3rd party lawsuit arising out of a work related injury in which the recovery exceeded 2.5 million.

Michael is consistently awarded  an "AV Preeminent" rating by his peers, and holds the highest possible rating for ethical standards and legal ability in the Martindale-Hubbell Directory of Attorneys which rates lawyers nationwide. Michael is also rated as a top lawyer by the Spokane-Coeur d'Alene Living magazine.

After obtaining degrees from the University of Washington and Gonzaga University School of Law, Michael started his legal career as a Federal Law Clerk for the Chief Justice of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of Washington. Michael entered private practice in 1990 where he began fighting for the rights of the injured and disabled.

 

Photos and videos

Highest Rating
Multi-Million Dollars Advocates Forum

Contact Michael

Similar lawyers nearby

Michael G. Thompson, Attorney at Law, PLLC
1212 N Washington St
Suite 212
Spokane, WA, 99201-2401

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  32 customer reviews
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Posted by anonymous | October 26, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best attorney in town!
If I had not pursued hiring Michael, I most likely would not have been able to maneuver through all the obstacles thrown at me successfully. He is an excellent attorney with a successful track record, and a pleasure to work with. Thank you Michael!
Posted by Pete | January 7, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Attorney
Mr. Thompson represented me for Social Security. He was very professional and personable. He was referred to me be a family member. He was very clear about how long it could take. Kept us well informed about the process. He always responded to questions I had. He made the whole process easy and painless. I would highly recommend him.
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Posted by Stephen | June 2, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceptional Attorney
Mr Thomas represented me for both my Labor and industry and social security cases. Mr Thompson always had my best interest in mind while dealing with my case. He was readily available and willing to answer any questions. I would highly recommend Mr Thompson to be your attorney.
Posted by Tony B | February 5, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Very Helpful Attorney
Mr. Thompson was from the very beginning very helpful and personable. He was referred to me by a close friend. I wanted to consult with an attorney to help me go through the process of getting SSDI for my brother. Mr. Thompson took the time - more than once - to help me understand the process and told me to call him back anytime, and he would be happy to help me. Because of his advice, I was able to get SSDI for my brother without any problems. If you need this kind of service, call Mr. Thompson. He is the best!!!
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Posted by anonymous | October 1, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional and Personable Attorney
Very exceptional, easy to speak to, most importantly, always available when needed for phone consultation. After dealing with L&I for 8 years Mr. Thompson was able to settle my case and get the outcome I had hoped for.
Posted by Heather | January 3, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Professional-highly recommend!
Michael is a skilled professional as well as compassionate and patient. I had a difficult case but Michael guided me through the process with clear explanations and excellent attention to detail. He always kept me "in the loop" to the progress of my case, returned my calls quickly when I had questions and contributed astute observations while steering the mountains of submissions through the courts without error. He advocated expertly at my hearing which resulted in a life changing successful outcome. I found him to be intelligent, articulate and trustworthy. He has many years of successfully navigating the courts and it shows. If you have a disability case, Michael Thompson is who you want on your side-period.
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Posted by Rebecca | July 14, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Do not waste your time on any other Attorney! Choose Michael Thompson!
Michael is by far the best Attorney. I went through lots of disabilaty declines prior to seeing Michael. THE SYSTEM IS CONFUSING AND STRESSFUL! Once I hired Michael my world was much CALMER! He knew the EXACT NEXT STEPS to get closer to getting Social Security Disability Insurance. I followed his instructions and gathered all hospital documents, appointment notes.... Michael gave me a form that was not online to the average attorney. The court wants the 3rd party to fill in the form; prior to court. Having my own doctor fill out the form made the job for the 3rd party much easier. In this case the third party ended up using the form filled out directly from my own doctor. It was a concise evaluation from my doctor. That form made all the difference in my review with the Judge; who was tough. We went in knowing we had everything together and just needed to let the Judge and the 3rd party decide. There were no promises because you never know which way the proceedings will go. My court date was in the morning and I was expecting to have my sister and myself testify. In the end the Judge did not need to hear from us. What a relief! Six weeks later I started to receive my benefits. The only thing I would change: going to Michael sooner. The system is designed to decline you the first few times so just knowing that, you can save yourself the stress and hire him. My fee was paid through Social Security Disability, so I did not have to come up with the money.
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Posted by Jeannie | July 1, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Labor and Industry
I hired Michael Thompson to help me with a case that another prominent atty. said i had no claim. I am so happy I went to Mr Thompson, he really worked hard for me and I was never left wondering what was happening. He kept me updated and informed of the whole process. He was really efficient and had the facts. I never expected things to go so quickly. I was pension in less than a year thanks to Mike and his perseverance and believing in me. I appreciate him so much.
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Posted by Jim | December 4, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Attorney.!!!
What a great Attorney.. I went to Mr. Thompson from the recommendation I found on line at AVVO. Mr. Thompson is very knowledgeable in his field of expertise and resolved my S.S.D. issues in a very short time. Mr Thompson always explained where we were, and what to expect next to come in a very easy and understandable conversation. Mr Thompson will always be my first choice for a lawyer.
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Posted by anonymous | November 30, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Disability Claim
I retained Mr. Thompson for my disability claim. He was extremely thorough and knowledgeable. He immediately put me at ease with his friendly and caring personality. He returned phone calls usually within the hour and kept me informed as my case progressed. He communicated every step of the way. I am so fortunate to have seen his profile on line. I have never retained a lawyer in this manner before, but am so glad that I used this method. I cannot say enough about this extremely professional, knowledgeable attorney. I highly recommend him.
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Posted by Cynthia | March 12, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very Capable, Knowledgeable, pleasant Attorney
I was very impressed with his professionalism. He was very up front and didn't sugar coat anything. I appreciated this because then I knew where I really stood. My case was a long shot for disability because of my disease. He and his assistant communicate regularly and directed me as to what information I needed to gather. He really knows the judges and is comfortable within the system. I would highly recommend him and will return myself if need be.
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Posted by Suzanne | November 13, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Wonderful Attorney
Mr. Thompson was my attorney for a complicated disability case. He was very thorough and professional, phone calls were promptly returned, and he was always supportive, but realistic about my situation. We received a favorable decision at my hearing and I am so grateful for his representation. I would recommend Michael Thompson to anyone in need of an attorney!
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Posted by Laurie Overton | November 5, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A job well done
Mr. Thompson was extremely thorough and knowledgeable. Throughout the course of my case, my husband and I would have occasional question. Upon calling Mr. Thompson if he was not immediately available, he would return my call usually within an hour. I would recommend him and his courteous staff to my closest friends and family.
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Posted by Jack | November 2, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Michael Thompson
Mr. Thompson was professional and personal. He always.did what he said he was going to do. He always kept me informed about my case and returned my calls.
Posted by Tammie | November 2, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Awesome Attorney
My husband suddenly had to stop work because of neuropathy and we were devasted. Mr. Thompson was professional, helpful, and truly a godsend. He was more than efficient and took a very stressful situation for our family and made us have hope again. He exceeded our expectations and handled everything smoothly. One of the most amazing things about our attorney was that he communicated with us every step of the way and really relieved our worry. I would highly recommend him to anyone who wants to win their case.
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Posted by anonymous | January 26, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Very helpful, candid and courteous
Michael called me back after my first inquiry in a reasonable amount of time and spent a good little bit of his valuable time (gratis) with me helping get me on the right track. If at some point I am in actual need of legal services related to my case, I will call him without question. This is the level of concern that indicates he will go to bat when the time comes.
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Posted by Martin | June 17, 2015
Successful Disability Claim
I began to lose my ability to stand, walk, or be pain free, as a result of a back injury I received years ago in a construction accident. By the time I realized how debilitated I was becoming and filled out the initial paper work at the social security building, I had not even though about selecting an attorney. I saw this gentlemen’s add in a local paper and looked up several other before deciding, without reference, to use Michael. Honestly, it was a shot in the dark for me and my family. I wish to report what a wonderful decision that was. Michael delivered against an average case with as much on the line as any lower back claim. I believe the success came from his ability to work as a team with his client and family. Michael is genuine. He works harder for you than is required. My family and I recommend Michael G. Thompson highly.
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Posted by Sherman | November 26, 2013
Best Representation Possible
Michael Thompson handled my Disability case with more professionalism and thoroughness than either I or the judge at my trial anticipated. The judge praised him profoundly for how well-written the trial preparation paperwork was. As a result, the trial was over within 15 minutes with a fully favorable decision. After which she again praised Michael's preparation and said she hoped all of her trials were managed as smoothly. Of course there is no guarantee that every client of Michael's will receive a fully favorable decision, but I can testify that every client of his will be represented as well as absolutely possible.
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Posted by Debra | November 9, 2012
Absolutely Outstanding!
When I came to Michael my life was in turmoil and I was involved in another case which could of jeopardized my L&I Widows Benefits Claim but against all odds and lots of hard work he won my case. Michael and his knowledgeable staff always kept me well informed and always got a quick reply to any questions I had. I can't say enough about how great a lawyer Michael G Thompson is.
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Posted by LYNNRTTR | November 9, 2012
VERY HAPPY
MR. THOMPSON REALT FOUGHT FOR ME, I CAN'NT THANK MR. THOMPSON ENOUGH. HE REALY WENT THE EXTRA MILE .
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Cost

Rates
  • Contingency 15%-30%

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Owner
  • Michael G. Thompson, Attorney at Law, PLLC
  • 1992 - Present
  • Federal Law Clerk to the Chief Justice
  • US Bankruptcy Court E.D. of WA
  • 1987 - 1989

Education

  • Gonzaga University School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1986
  • University of Washington -Seattle
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1983

Associations

  • Supreme Court of the United States Of America
  • Member
  • 1996 - Present
  • Washington State Association for Justice
  • Member
  • 1995 - Present
  • United States Court of Appeals For the Ninth Circuit
  • Member
  • 1988 - Present
  • United States District Court for the Eastern District of Washington
  • Member
  • 1988 - Present
  • United States District Court for the Western District of Washington
  • Member
  • 1988 - Present
  • Washington State Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1987 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Top Lawyer
  • Spokane Coeur d'Alene Living Magazine
  • 2022
  • AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2022
  • Top Lawyer
  • Spokane Coeur d'Alene Living Magazine
  • 2021
  • AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2021
  • Top Lawyer
  • Spokane Coeur d'Alene Living Magazine
  • 2020
  • AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2020
  • Top Lawyer
  • Spokane Coeur d'Alene Living Magazine
  • 2019
  • AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2019
  • AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2018
  • Top Lawyer
  • Spokane Coeur d'Alene Living Magazine
  • 2018
  • Top Lawyer
  • Spokane Coeur d'Alene Living Magazine
  • 2017
  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2017
  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2016
  • Top Lawyer
  • Spokane Coeur d'Alene Living Magazine
  • 2016
  • Spokane's Top Lawyers
  • Spokane Coeur d'Alene Living Magazine
  • 2015
  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2015
  • Spokane's Top Lawyers
  • Spokane Coeur d'Alene Living Magazine
  • 2014
  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2014
  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2013
  • Spokane's Top Lawyers
  • Spokane Coeur d'Alene Living Magazine
  • 2013
  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2012
  • Spokane's Top Lawyers
  • Spokane Coeur d'Alene Living Magazine
  • 2012
  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2011
  • Spokane's Top Lawyers
  • Spokane Coeur d'Alene Living Magazine
  • 2011
  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2010
  • Spokane's Top Lawyers
  • Spokane Coeur d'Alene Living Magazine
  • 2010
  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2009
  • Spokane's Top Lawyers
  • Spokane Coeur D'Alene Living Magazine
  • 2009
  • Spokane's Top Lawyers
  • Spokane Coeur D'Alene Living Magazine
  • 2008
  • Member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum
  • The Million Dollar Advocates Forum
  • 2000
  • Certification
  • International Workers' Compensation College
  • 1996
  • "Excellent" Efficiency Rating
  • Judicial Employees in the US Court System
  • 1989
  • "Excellent" Efficiency Rating
  • Judicial Employees in the US Court System
  • 1988
View all awards

Publications

  • Lorman Education Services publication
  • The Pension Candidate
  • 1996
  • Lorman Education Services publication
  • Communicating with the Department of Labor and Industries
  • 1996
  • Creditor-Debtor Law News Letter
  • Common Misconceptions of Abandonment
  • 1989
  • Eastern Washington Bankruptcy Notes
  • Code Notes
  • 1989
  • Creditor-Debtor Law Newsletter
  • Agricultural Credit Act in Chapter 12
  • 1989
  • Eastern Washington Bankruptcy Notes
  • Death of a Debtor in Possession in a Chapter 11 Reorganization
  • 1989
  • Creditor-Debtor Law Newsletter
  • Case Summaries
  • 1989
  • Creditor-Debtor Law News Letter
  • Avoidance of Injunctive Relief to the Extent it Impairs an Exemption
  • 1988
View all publications

Speaking Engagements

  • Winter Conference--In Search of the Passkey
  • Workers Compensation
  • 1997
  • A "Friendly" Debate on Contemporary Worker's Compensation Issues
  • Workers' Compensation
  • 1996
  • Spokane Credit and Bankruptcy Awareness Seminar
  • Bankruptcy
  • 1989
  • Gonzaga University School of Law Creditor - Debtor Section
  • Creditor-Debtor Law
  • 1989
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (4)
Given (4)
Endorse Michael
Workers compensation Attorney | Jan 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Michael is a dedicated and hard-working attorney who really cares about his clients. You will be well represented with Michael."
Social Security & Disability Attorney | Sep 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have had the privilege of knowing Mr. Thompson for over 18 years. I send all of my clients to him if they have need of a Social Security Disability attorney, as he is the best in my opinion. He has worked in this industry for a very long time and has an amazing track record of success for his clients."
Workers compensation Attorney | Feb 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"For several years Mr. Thompson and I were opposing counsel in industrial insurance appeals. Without exception he was always well prepared, thorough, and a zealous advocate for his clients. His expertise in workers' compensation cases, as well as social security disability claims and appeals, places him among the very best attorneys in his field. On those occasions when I need a second opinion or professional input regarding an issue, Mr. Thompson is one of the first attorneys I contact. Also,over the past several years I have referred many of my industrial insurance clients to him for representation in their social security disability claims. He has always served them exceedingly well."
Workers compensation Attorney | Feb 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"For over two decades I have referred workmans comp clients Mr. Thompson and never heard a complaint. Rather, I have received notes and calls stating that Mr. Thompson acted quickly, professionally, and with obvious talent in representing them. In addition, when I have needed a consult on cases where an L & I lien (aka Workmans Comp lien) or Medicaid or Medicare lien was involved Mr. Thompson has been an extremely competent and ethical consultant. Without hesitation, I will continue in the future to refer clients to him. Finally, as an attorney who has been practicing personal injury law for 33 years I know from my colleagues who, among the many workmans comp lawyers, are most respected, and Mr. Thompson is one of the very few in that category."
Workers compensation
Estate planning
Workers compensation
Personal injury

Avvo Contributions

This attorney hasn't created any legal answers in Q&A or legal guides recently on Avvo.

Spokane Workers compensation Lawyer Michael Grattan Thompson
Michael Grattan Thompson
Workers compensation Attorney
Spokane, WA
Licensed for 36 years