Our seasoned team.
MEET OUR PEOPLE.
Education
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University of Oklahoma, College of Law J.D.
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Cameron University
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National Institute for Trial Advocacy
Noteworthy
J. Roderik Stephens, J.D.
Attorney and Counselor at Law, Founder and Principal
While a large part of his work is in the context of litigation, Rod prefers to work with his clients to develop procedures and processes that avoid the cost and expense of litigation. Rod and the members of his legal team provide training, seminars, employment handbooks, updates on recent cases and, of course, sound counsel.
Rod’s clients benefit from his years of experience and in-depth understanding of institutional and management operational structures. The members of his firm understand that legal matters can require an immediate response in times of crisis. On those occasions, the firm’s clients can take comfort in the knowledge that the firm is prepared to provide the type of response that takes advantage of their years of experience.
Rod has been in practice since 1984 and has successfully represented clients from all over the United States and Canada. He has taught continuing education classes in employment law to members of management, human resource professionals and lawyers. The prestigious legal directory Martindale-Hubbell has ranked Rod as AV Preeminent and his firm has been listed in the Bar Register of Preeminent Law Firms. Rod has also been selected a SuperLawyer, on at least nine occasions, by Washington Law and Politics magazine.
Although Rod is passionate about the law, in his spare time you will find him exploring the natural wonders of the Pacific Northwest with his “Dawg” Allie, enjoying a cup of gourmet coffee (preferably Mt. Rainier Coffee Company’s Longmire blend) or attending a local car show.
Kathryn Gardiner, J.D.
Employment Risk Analyst
After stepping away from her law practice to raise her three children, Kathryn was a natural fit for the firm’s employment law practice. Her legal experience, combined with a human resources background, gives her a unique understanding of how employment law issues impact a business and its human capital.
Kathryn loves to work with clients that are facing internal challenges as they grow. She has a unique ability to identify problem areas and work with clients to find effective solutions.
When she is out of the office, you will find Kathryn with a latte in hand, busy with several community projects and enjoying time with her family.
Although Kathryn used to practice law in California, she is not licensed to practice in the state of Washington.
Symone Kittelson
Litigation Paralegal
When Symone joined The Stephens Law Firm she brought over a decade of legal experience.
One of the factors integral to her decision to join our team was the firm’s commitment to excellence and its commitment to provide superior client service.
With her legal background, she was a natural fit for a boutique practice. Symone enjoys working on litigation and employment law matters and assisting our clients to achieve a successful result.
As with the rest of our team, Symone understands that you cannot do law well if you do not have time to play.
In her spare time, Symone loves to ride her Harley. If it is sunny outside, you will see Symone's Harley sitting in front of our office. Symone also loves spending time with her two beautiful granddaughters and grandson.