Seattle, Washington
Seattle Business Litigation Attorney
John T. Bender is an award-winning litigation attorney representing companies, executives, and boards in high-stakes commercial disputes. From contract fights and partner disputes to trade secret theft and shareholder actions, John brings hard-won judgment to every matter — in state court, federal court, and arbitration.
Why Seattle companies hire John for business disputes
Recognized trial lawyer
Named 2025 Outstanding Plaintiffs' Trial Lawyer of the Year by the Washington Defense Trial Lawyers, listed on Benchmark Litigation's Top Litigators Under 40, and repeatedly recognized by Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers.
Judgment shaped by the business at stake
John advises clients on when to fight, when to settle, and how to protect operations, reputation, and leadership through the dispute.
Full commercial docket
Breach of contract, business fraud, non-compete and trade secret matters, partnership and shareholder disputes, and post-closing M&A claims.
Ready for trial from day one
Cases are built to be tried. Opposing counsel who assume they can outlast you tend to settle on better terms when they realize otherwise.
Representative Matters
- Prosecuted multi-million-dollar breach of contract and fraud claims through trial.
- Represented executives and boards in shareholder and derivative disputes involving governance and fiduciary duties.
- Prosecuted and defended trade secret and non-compete matters under the Washington Uniform Trade Secrets Act and Defend Trade Secrets Act.
- Advised majority and minority owners in partner and shareholder disputes, including buyouts and dissolutions.
- Handled complex commercial arbitrations before AAA and JAMS panels.
How John Approaches Your Case
Confidential intake
A direct conversation with John, not an intake coordinator, to understand the dispute, the exposure, and the outcome you actually need.
Case assessment
A candid read on the strength of your position, likely opposing strategy, and realistic ranges for resolution or trial.
Strategy and execution
A written plan with milestones, budget expectations, and decision points — then disciplined execution in court or at the negotiating table.
Resolution or trial
Most matters resolve. When they don't, John tries them. Either path is prepared for from day one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to discuss your matter?
Feel free to contact John here.