Bloom Law PLLC

10/16/2025

This morning, our partner, Jay Free delivered a dynamic presentation at the Washington Employment Lawyers Association (WELA) Annual CLE, sharing his insights in “Countering Defense Tactics and Traps: A Reformed Defense Attorney’s Approach to Discovery and Pre-Filing Investigations.”
Jay drew on his experience on both sides of the aisle to equip advocates with practical tools to anticipate, counter, and neutralize common defense strategies.
This year’s CLE theme — “Thinking Outside the Book: Innovative Approaches to Litigation” — celebrates creativity and resilience in advocacy. Bloom Law is proud to see Jay leading that conversation.

07/25/2025

Brian Kniffen reacts to his $5M victory!

07/24/2025

A jury has awarded $5 million to Brian Kniffen, a former employee of the East Wenatchee Water District, who was wrongfully terminated following a work-related spinal injury. The jury concluded that the utility company failed to provide reasonable accommodations and discriminated against Kniffen, violating state and federal disability laws. Lead Counsel Beth Bloom emphasized that Kniffen was unjustly punished for his injury, despite his nearly 30-year dedication to the company. The Water District's refusal to invest in a $30,000 powered valve turner, which was recommended and financially supported by Washington State Labor & Industries, highlighted their prioritization of profit over employee safety. The jury's unanimous verdict after one day of deliberation upheld Kniffen's claims, underscoring the case's importance in advocating for fair treatment of injured workers seeking accommodations. Kniffen expressed gratitude to the jury for ensuring accountability and preventing similar injustices in the future. The legal team representing Kniffen included Matt O’Laughlin, Beth Kidd, and Madeline Ashcraft.

07/02/2025

Former Skagit Transit CFO Christopher Stamey has filed a whistleblower retaliation lawsuit against Skagit Transit and CEO Crystle Stidham, alleging he was fired after reporting financial misconduct. The suit accuses Stidham of misusing taxpayer funds for personal luxury expenses, forging Stamey’s signature on $500,000 in spending, and circumventing financial controls. Stamey was placed on leave and ultimately terminated for speaking out, and seeks damages, policy changes, and whistleblower protections. This case reflects broader issues of retaliation against employees who raise ethical concerns. Read more about the case here:

Christopher Stamey has filed a whistleblower retaliation lawsuit against Skagit Transit, alleging he was fired....READ MORE !

07/02/2025

The Pasco School District pays $1.9 million to settle a federal lawsuit filed by former transportation director Jose Hernandez, who alleged endured nearly a decade of racial harassment and discrimination. This resolution a step toward accountability and inclusion, aiming to spark cultural reform within public institutions. Read more here:

The Pasco School District pays $1.9 million to settle a federal lawsuit filed by former transportation director Jose Hernandez...READ MORE !

05/22/2025

Beth Bloom spent the week in Bozeman, Montana attending the Damages Attorney Roundtable annual conference. DART is an elected honor society for top-tier plaintiffs’ lawyers. Her talk on the Ethical and Efficient Use of AI explored the legal ethics governing use of generative artificial intelligence and the expanding role of AI in legal drafting, trial preparation, and persuasive advocacy. There was still time for a stiff 1400-foot Montana hike. Here pictured with Attorney Corrie Yackulic, Judge Averil Rothrock, and attorneys Mike Wampold, and Becky Roe.

05/21/2025

Celebrating justice in action! 💥 Beth Bloom and Jay Free traveled to visit our amazing client Teresa Levine to honor her recent $3M trial victory against Northshore Utility District. We brought a framed keepsake to mark the moment. It's incredibly rewarding to stand beside courageous clients like Teresa who fight not just for themselves—but to make the workplace better for everyone. One trial at a time. 🖤⚖️
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https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/ex-northshore-utility-district-employee-wins-3m-in-discrimination-case/

02/10/2025

Former North Thurston Public Schools teacher Christie Tran has filed a lawsuit against the district, alleging retaliation for supporting student protests against race and s*x discrimination in early 2022. The lawsuit cites the Washington Law Against Discrimination and follows a previous tort claim and a Washington State Human Rights Commission finding that the district unlawfully retaliated against her. Tran, who had been a visual arts teacher and student adviser, was placed on administrative leave for eight months following the protests and later reassigned to a demoted position, leading to her resignation in 2023. She claims the district falsely accused her of misconduct, smeared her reputation, and continues to retaliate, making it difficult for her to continue her teaching career. Seeking justice, Tran asserts that no teacher should have to choose between advocating for students and their career. Read more here:https://buff.ly/3WTIbpN .

A North Thurston Public Schools teacher who supported students during protests in early 2022 has filed a lawsuit against the district, claiming district officials retaliated against her for her stance.

01/09/2025

Congratulations to Jay Free on becoming a Partner at Bloom Law! This achievement is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and exceptional legal acumen. His commitment to excellence has played a significant role in the firm's continued success, and this well-deserved promotion reflects the trust and respect he has earned from both clients and colleagues. We look forward to continued growth and success in this exciting new chapter for both Jay and Bloom Law.

12/16/2024

Jury Awards Over $3 Million to Teresa Levine, Former Northshore Utility District Employee in Gender Discrimination Case. This verdict validates the harm caused when qualified women are denied opportunities simply because of their gender. Teresa stood up against discrimination, not just for herself, but for all women striving to advance in their careers. We hope this decision sends a clear message that discriminatory practices will not be tolerated. We and our co-counsel at Breskin, Johnson & Townsend worked hard for this verdict and are so happy to see Teresa achieve justice in this case.

11/20/2024

Congratulations to Sal Mungia for his election to the Washington Supreme Court. With his extensive experience and profound understanding of the law, Sal Mungia will make a positive impact on the judicial system and serve the people of Washington State with integrity and fairness. We are lucky to have him serving on our highest court!

10/23/2024

Election day is upon us! Sal Mungia needs your vote. Fill in that oval, return your ballot and join 8 of the current Supreme Court justices, The Stranger, and The Seattle Times, in support of Sal! Don't forget those other kind of important races on the ballot. Vote - SAL MUNGIA, for Supreme Court!