John W. Hempelmann

John W. Hempelmann is a founding partner and Chairman of Cairncross & Hempelmann, a full-service Seattle law firm. He brings over 50 years of experience in land use, natural resources, and real estate development law. He has helped shape key legislation governing Washington’s land use framework.

John earned a B.A. from Georgetown University in 1964 through the Honors Program. He later completed an M.A. in Government in 1969 at Georgetown University. In the same year, he received his J.D. from the University of Washington, building a strong academic foundation for his legal career.

John advises clients on complex real estate development projects. His work includes land use planning, zoning, environmental review, and master planning. He also supports clients through natural resource permitting processes. His guidance helps move projects forward while meeting regulatory and environmental standards effectively.

John’s experience includes major commercial, residential, and mixed-use developments. He contributed to The Pine Forest TOD Master Development Plan near Sound Transit’s East Link Station. He also worked on Suncadia, Washington’s first master planned resort, and major industrial developments under the State Growth Management Act.

John has been involved in significant conservation and transfer-of-development-rights transactions in Washington and Maine. He has also supported major mineral resource developments. While often aligned with local governments, he has successfully challenged them in cases like Westmark v. Burien and Maytown Sand & Gravel v. Thurston County.

John’s honors include multiple “Lawyer of the Year” recognitions by The Best Lawyers in America®. He is consistently ranked by Chambers USA and has received awards from Seattle Business Magazine, Super Lawyers®, and Washington CEO Magazine. He holds a Martindale-Hubbell AV® Preeminent 5.0 rating.

John W. Hempelmann is admitted to practice in Washington and before several federal courts, including the US Supreme Court. His long record reflects deep knowledge, steady leadership, and a lasting impact on land use law and real estate development across Washington State.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Cairncross & Hempelmann, P.S.
• Full Member, Urban Land Institute
• Member, Association of Washington Business
• Legal Advisor, Washington Forest Protection Association

Licensed State

• Washington

Education

• University of Washington
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Georgetown University
  Master of Arts (MA)
• Georgetown University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges