Seyfarth announced today the arrival of partner Lauren Parris Watts to its Labor & Employment department in Seattle. Parris Watts was most recently a partner at Seattle law firm Helsell Fetterman.

In her practice, Parris Watts assists businesses of all sizes and across industries in identifying practical, strategic, and innovative solutions to employment issues that give consideration to greater business objectives, as well as diversity and inclusion goals. She advises employers on a variety of day-to-day employment matters, including accommodations, FMLA and other leave rights, and misconduct allegations and investigations. In addition, Parris Watts regularly works with employers to navigate complex personnel issues and has successfully negotiated hundreds of severance discussions. She also represents businesses in employment litigation involving wrongful termination, sexual harassment, retaliation, and discrimination, among other complex lawsuits.

“Lauren is a versatile litigator who brings deep knowledge of the most pressing employment risks facing companies today,” said Laura Maechtlen, chair of Seyfarth’s Labor & Employment department. “Our premier platform is an ideal springboard for her impressive practice.”

Parris Watts is the latest partner to join Seyfarth’s new Seattle office. Last month, the firm announced the arrival of Litigation partner Andrew Escobar. In July 2020, Seyfarth announced the formal launch of the office, the firm’s first in the Pacific Northwest and fifth on the West Coast. Seyfarth’s Seattle office is currently comprised of 16 lawyers, including 10 partners, from a cross-section of the firm’s nationally ranked departments.

“It’s exciting to add a lawyer like Lauren who brings tremendous trial experience at the state and local level. She is a natural leader who pursues excellence in the profession and provides meaningful contributions to our greater Seattle community,” said Thomas Wybenga, co-managing partner of Seyfarth’s Seattle office.

The office’s other co-managing partner, Denice Tokunaga, added that, “Lauren has an incredible reputation in the Puget Sound business community and we’re delighted she is a part of our growing team.”

A prolific thought leader, Parris Watts has authored several publications on the latest legal developments impacting employers. She earned her J.D. from Seattle University School of Law and received a B.A. from The Johns Hopkins University.