Joel's practice focuses on Debtor and Creditor work, Bankruptcy, Litigation, Real Estate and Commercial Law.

 

 

He received his law degree from Willamette University (J.D., 1980). Joel previously graduated from University of Washington (B.A., cum laude, 1974), where he also received a masters degree (M.A., 1976).

 

 

• United States District Court, Western District of Washington - Admitted To Practice

• United States Bankruptcy Court, Western District of Washington – Admitted To Practice

• United States Bankruptcy Court, Eastern District of Washington – Admitted To Practice

• United States Court Of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit - Admitted To Practice

PRACTICE EMPHASIS

Commercial and Corporate Litigation, Bankruptcy, Reorganization, Receivership, Creditors’ Rights

INDUSTRIES

Construction, Commercial and Consumer Financing, Real Estate, Retail

Joel has represented debtors, unsecured creditors committees, unsecured creditors, secured creditors, landlords and bankruptcy trustees, in a variety of cases under the bankruptcy code relating to manufacturing, real estate, technology, and construction.  

RECENT CASES

2009 In re DEEP OCEAN EXPEDITIONS:  

Objected to insider claims in Chapter 11 case exceeding $6 million leading to compromise resulting in purchase of client’s claim for $800,000 in a vessel construction case.

2008 ENCOMPASS TELESERVICES:

Following trial, judgment entered for shareholder on claims of oppression for $925,000 and related settlement for $390,000.

2008 NORTHERN MARINE: 

Assisted in successful collection of judgment on arbitration award for $900,000 against principals of shipyard on a vessel construction case, including supplemental proceedings and close work with forensic CPA regarding possible fraudulent transfers. 

2008 INDUSTRIAL AIR SYSTEMS, INC.: 

Miller Act Claim and arbitration between supplier and general contractor.  Arbitration award in favor of client leading to settlement for and payment of $320,000.

2004 BROWN V. JIE AND ZOU:

Judgment for Receiver of corporate exporter on claims for diversion of contracts for $350,000 with award of sanctions for $270,000.  Related settlements with attorneys for principals and corporation. 

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS