Founding Principal of Patterson Buchanan Fobes & Leitch, Inc., P.S.
On September 25, 2018 Michael A. Patterson passed away after a prolonged and courageous fight with cancer.
As an attorney, Mike had a well-deserved reputation as a relentless advocate for his clients and a strong presence in the courtroom, whether before judge or jury. As a mentor, he impacted many of us greatly – helping us become thoughtful counselors and unflinching litigators.
In 2007, when our Firm was founded, Mike’s determination and vision provided a strong foundation for our long-term success. His demand for quality and advocacy helped build the Firm. As Mike would have wanted, we will continue our work on behalf of our clients.
Mr. Patterson served as President at Patterson Buchanan. He possessed significant civil trial and appellate experience, having tried more than 150 cases to verdict in both federal and state courts, and having argued over 50 cases in federal and state appellate courts. Mr. Patterson was a nationally recognized trial attorney. Very few civil litigators match his trial experience.
Mr. Patterson concentrated his practice on high stakes, high profile litigation and represented scores of school districts; numerous cities, counties, and fire districts; various archdioceses throughout the country; and many well-known private clients. He won the Mary Kay Letourneau case for the Highline School District. Known for his experience working high profile cases, he was frequently called upon to be the media spokesperson for clients involved in difficult situations. He had been interviewed by ABC, CBS, Dateline and NBC. Mr. Patterson was also nationally recognized as a speaker for a wide variety of litigation and best practice issues.
In addition to defending clients, Mr. Patterson served as an expert witness in numerous matters throughout the country on fiduciary duty and insurance issues.
