Stokes Lawrence is pleased to welcome Helen McFarland to the firm’s litigation team, where she will represent employers and organizations in complex, high‑stakes disputes. Helen is based in the firm’s Seattle office and will work with clients across the firm.
An accomplished first‑chair trial lawyer and strategic advisor, Helen has decades of experience defending clients in state and federal courts, as well as in arbitrations and administrative proceedings. Her practice spans a broad range of workplace and business‑related litigation, including wrongful termination, discrimination, retaliation, harassment, unfair competition, wage‑and‑hour claims, and independent contractor misclassification.
“Helen is an exceptional trial lawyer with outstanding judgment and presence,” said Theresa Wang, managing shareholder of Stokes Lawrence. “She brings deep litigation experience, a practical approach to risk management, and the ability to connect with clients at every level of an organization. We are excited to have her join the team.”
Known for her persuasive advocacy and strong courtroom skills, Helen regularly serves as lead counsel in sensitive matters and has secured numerous favorable resolutions for her clients, including defense summary judgment rulings. She is particularly valued for her ability to translate complex legal issues into clear, actionable strategies for executives, boards, and in‑house legal and HR teams.
In addition to her litigation work, Helen advises organizations on compliance and risk mitigation related to hiring and termination decisions, accommodation and leave obligations, wage‑and‑hour practices, and internal governance. She also serves as an independent workplace investigator for both private and public entities, conducting thorough and impartial investigations involving matters at all organizational levels, including executive leadership.
Helen has developed particular experience representing clients in the healthcare and retail sectors, while also advising organizations in technology, financial services, and transportation. She is licensed to practice in Washington, Oregon, and California, and helps clients navigate the evolving legal landscapes of some of the most demanding jurisdictions for employers.
Since 2024, Helen has been recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® for Litigation – Labor and Employment (Seattle, WA). Outside of her practice, she is actively involved in the King County Bar Association’s Labor & Employment Law Section, where she serves on the Board of Trustees and previously served as Section Chair in 2025. She is also a member of the National Employment Law Council. A prolific writer and frequent speaker, Helen regularly shares insights and guidance on labor and employment law developments and industry trends. She earned her J.D. from Lewis & Clark Law School and her bachelor’s degree from Vassar College.
