Washington Defense Trial Lawyers is pleased to announce that Rhianna Fronapfel of Bennett Bigelow & Leedom has been appointed by the Washington State Supreme Court to serve on the Washington Pattern Jury Instructions (WPI) Committee. Her appointment, approved by the Supreme Court, begins immediately and runs through July 15, 2030.

In her letter to Ms. Fronapfel, Chief Justice Debra L. Stephens wrote, “I am confident that this important Committee will benefit from your expertise and experience.”  

Rhianna joins the Committee as one of three WDTL designated appointees, serving alongside Chris Nicoll of Nicoll Black Altenbrun & Feig and Paul Stewart of Paine Hamblen. Rhianna’s thoughtful approach to trial practice and deep commitment to the civil defense community will be an asset to the Committee’s work ensuring Washington’s pattern jury instructions remain clear, balanced, and reflective of current law.

Rhianna succeeds Liz Leedom, Bennett Bigelow & Leedom, who has served with distinction as a WDTL appointee and will continue her service in an at large position on the WPI Committee. Liz’s leadership and expertise have helped shape the instructions relied upon by judges and practitioners across Washington.

WDTL extends its sincere gratitude to Liz Leedom for her dedicated service to the state and the civil defense bar and congratulates Rhianna Fronapfel on this well deserved appointment.