John Barry

John Barry handles a broad spectrum of legal matters, including civil rights defense, municipal defense, personal injury, and professional liability defense. He brings valuable experience defending governments and public officials, along with a proven track record in motions practice, trial experience, and a strong commitment to professionalism. His background in congressional and policy matters enhances his ability to analyze and advise clients on new legislation. Before entering private practice, John worked at Seattle’s Office of Police Accountability (OPA), where he advised OPA on investigations into alleged violations of policy and legislative affairs.

During law school, John participated in the University of Washington Law’s legislative clinic, contributing to the passage of a state evidence reform law. He also interned with the Seattle City Attorney’s Office. Prior to earning his J.D., John worked as a legislative aide in the United States Senate on foreign affairs, military, and some judiciary issues.

• Obtained summary judgment dismissal on behalf of a police department in a federal civil rights case alleging wrongful arrest and discrimination by conclusively disproving plaintiff’s factual allegations, after which plaintiff consented to entry of summary judgment.

• Obtained summary judgment dismissal of a major city police department in a 2020 protest case involving deployment of less-lethal crowd control tools and allegations of First and Fourth Amendment violations.

• Achieved a favorable settlement on behalf of an athletic facility in a multi-party case, including favorable rulings related to discovery issues impacting case outcome.

• Provided low/pro bono assistance to a salmon recovery nonprofit to resolve specious wage theft claims by a former employee that threatened the organization’s viability.