About
Donald W. Heyrich is a seasoned employment law attorney and founding partner of HKM Employment Attorneys LLP. With more than two decades of legal practice, he has built a reputation as one of the Pacific Northwest’s most effective advocates for employee rights. He represents clients in workplace discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, and wage disputes across Seattle, Bellevue, and Spokane.
Mr. Heyrich earned his Juris Doctor from Seattle University School of Law in 1993, following a Bachelor of Arts degree from The Evergreen State College in 1988. Before establishing HKM Employment Attorneys in 2007, he spent over 10 years at Perkins Coie LLP, representing employers in high-stakes litigation and gaining valuable insight into defense strategies.
Shifting his focus in 2007, Mr. Heyrich began representing individuals rather than corporations, committing his expertise to securing employee justice. He has since litigated hundreds of cases nationwide, covering issues like unpaid overtime, sexual harassment, non-compete agreements, and wrongful discharge. His advocacy has resulted in millions recovered through single-plaintiff and class action lawsuits.
Mr. Heyrich has secured notable victories, including a $16 million class action settlement against Papa John’s and a $3.8 million recovery from Universal Men’s Clinic. His efforts have earned him consistent recognition in Best Lawyers in America and Washington Super Lawyers, along with the highest AVVO attorney rating. These accolades highlight his leadership and client-focused success.
Donald W. Heyrich’s primary practice areas include employment discrimination, labor law, whistleblower protections, and litigation. Through his strategic legal approach, he continues to protect workers facing unfair treatment and illegal employment practices. His dedication to justice is reflected not only in courtroom wins but in his real-life impact on the people he represents.
Law Office Affiliations
- Attorney, HKM Employment Attorneys LLP
- Member, National Employment Lawyers Association
- Member, American Bar Association
Licensed State
- Washington
Education
- Seattle University School of Law
Juris Doctor (JD) - The Evergreen State College
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Awards & Badges


- Appeals
- Class action
- Discrimination
- Litigation
- Sexual harassment
- Social Security & Disability
- Wrongful termination