Chris Black

Chris Black is a highly skilled criminal defense attorney with extensive experience handling cases in federal, state, and local courts throughout Washington. His legal career is dedicated to defending individuals facing serious charges, ensuring their rights are protected.

Chris has built a reputation as a strong advocate, recognized for his expertise in trial and appellate litigation, legal research, and strategic case development. His approach includes thorough legal analysis, identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and using every available tool to secure the best possible outcome for his clients. Due to his outstanding legal skills, he has been recognized as a Super Lawyer since 2014 and was named one of Washington’s top trial lawyers by the National Trial Lawyers.

Chris earned his J.D. from the University of Washington School of Law in 2001. He also holds a B.A. in Economics, with Honors, from Johns Hopkins University, which he completed in 1997. His legal career began during law school when he interned at a criminal defense firm. He later became an associate partner and eventually founded his own firm in 2009.

With decades of criminal defense experience, Seattle attorney Chris Black represents clients facing serious charges, including felonies, federal crimes, and pre-charge criminal investigations. He is highly skilled in constitutional law and criminal procedure, often achieving case dismissals, evidence suppression, and strategically negotiated plea agreements. Chris also has extensive experience in immigration-focused criminal defense, helping noncitizen clients avoid or minimize immigration consequences stemming from criminal charges. His leadership in this area includes serving as President of the Board of Directors for the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project.

Chris has also served as President of the Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, where he worked to advance the rights of defendants across the state. As a member of multiple state and federal bar associations, including the Federal Bar, Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, and Consulate of Mexico’s consulting criminal law panel, he remains dedicated to strong, strategic legal advocacy for every client.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founding Partner, Black & Askerov
• Member, Washington State Bar
• Member, Federal Bar Association
• Member, Bar of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals
• Consulting Attorney, Consulate of Mexico in Seattle

Licensed State

• Washington

Education

• University of Washington School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Johns Hopkins University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges