Marshall & Saunders is a Seattle criminal defense firm concentrating on accusations of sexual misconduct, child abuse, and domestic violence. Its practice has represented clients across Washington since 1997, handling high-stakes criminal, civil, and administrative matters. The team reports more than 100 years of combined defense experience, over 250 criminal trials, and representation of more than 1,000 clients in sensitive cases in state and federal courts alike.
Marshall & Saunders handles allegations of rape, child molestation, indecent liberties, voyeurism, sexual misconduct with minors, and commercial sexual abuse of minors. Its internet-related practice includes sting operations, child pornography offenses, and communications with minors for immoral purposes. The firm also represents clients facing prostitution-related accusations and sex offender registration violations, developing defense strategies from investigation through trial based on evidence, applicable law, and individual case circumstances.
Marshall & Saunders also handles child physical abuse accusations, including shaken baby syndrome, suspicious fractures, and alleged assault of children. Its broader work encompasses domestic violence charges, protection orders, civil sexual abuse lawsuits, Title IX investigations, university disciplinary hearings, and Child Protective Services proceedings. The firm also assists with dependency cases, administrative appeals of abuse findings, licensing disputes connected to alleged abuse, and post-conviction challenges when appropriate.
Marshall & Saunders has obtained dismissals and reduced penalties through detailed evidence review. A child molestation charge was dropped after the defense pursued an omitted witness, while a separate case ended with dismissal of both criminal and dependency proceedings. In Pierce County, psychological evidence helped secure a 17-month sentence for attempted second-degree rape of a child, below the standard 31-to-41-month range for that offense.
Marshall & Saunders draws on attorneys recognized as Washington Super Lawyers and recipients of Martindale-Hubbell’s AV Preeminent rating. The team includes a 2026 William O. Douglas Award recipient and members of the Washington State Bar Association and National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. For clients, the process combines tailored investigation, forensic interviewing, expert witnesses, meticulous trial preparation, and practical help addressing employment, housing, or reputational consequences. Clients can request confidential consultations online.
