In a powerful demonstration of advocacy and leadership, President Erin Seeberger, President-Elect Rory Cosgrove, and Executive Director MaggieSweeney of the Washington Defense Trial Lawyers (WDTL) recently visited the Washington State Capitol for WDTL’s annual "Day on the Hill." Organized by WDTL Legislative Consultants Kris Tefft and Christine Brewer, this event underscores WDTL's commitment to engaging with legislators and championing the interests of the defense bar.

The day began with a gathering at the Dome Deli in the Legislative Building, where the team organized their agenda and prepared for a series of impactful meetings. Their schedule included discussions with key legislators such as Senator Keith Waggoner, a member of the Senate Law & Justice Committee, and Senator Jamie Pedersen, the Senate Majority Leader. They also met with Representative Hunter Abell, a former WSBA president and member of the House Civil Rights & Judiciary Committee, as well as Representative Peter Abbarno, member of the House Consumer Protection & Business Committee, and his bunny Veto.

The agenda featured a Senate Democratic Caucus Business Community Meeting, providing an opportunity to engage with a broader legislative audience. The day concluded with meetings with Senator Adrian Cortes, a member of the Senate Business, Financial Services & Trade Committee, and Representatives My-Linh Thai and Jamila Taylor, both influential members of the House Civil Rights & Judiciary Committee.

Maggie Sweeney, known for her dynamic leadership and deep-rooted dedication to WDTL, emphasized the importance of these interactions. "Our presence at the Capitol is not just about representing our members; it's about ensuring that the principles of justice and equity remain at the forefront of legislative decisions," she remarked.

President Erin Seeberger highlighted the collaborative spirit of the event, stating, "This is a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between the legal profession and the legislative process. Together, we can work towards solutions that benefit not only our members but also the communities we serve."
President-Elect Rory Cosgrove echoed these sentiments, adding, "Engaging directly with legislators allows us to share the real-world implications of proposed laws. It's a chance to advocate for policies that uphold the integrity of our legal system."

Tefft and Brewer’s careful planning and accompaniment ensured that WDTL's leadership team effectively navigated this bustling day of advocacy, emphasizing the importance of strategic legislative engagement. The "Day on the Hill" serves as a reminder of the critical role WDTL plays in shaping policy and fostering a fair legal environment.

Through their efforts, Sweeney, Seeberger, and Cosgrove exemplify the dedication and professionalism that define the Washington Defense Trial Lawyers. As WDTL continues to champion the interests of its members and the broader legal community, events like these highlight WDTL’s commitment to promote justice and balance in civil courts.