Mike's journey at Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler, PLLC, began as a summer intern in 2000 while he was still in law school. After graduating from Seattle University School of Law in 2002, he joined the firm as an Associate Attorney and later became a Partner in 2009.
As a tenacious trial lawyer, Mike dedicates his utmost effort and enthusiasm to his work. He approaches each client's case with thoroughness, exploring every possible angle to find the best solution. His extensive legal research, covering procedural issues and substantive law, is highly regarded within the office. Mike possesses a deep understanding of the dynamics and strategies involved in preparing personal injury and wrongful death cases for trial, often leading defendants to opt for settlement.
Specializing in representing victims of personal injury and wrongful death, Mike handles a diverse range of cases, including litigation related to truck, boat, vehicle, and motorcycle accidents, construction site injuries, premises liability, medical malpractice, and nursing home negligence.
"I cannot let these people down," says Mike. "Our clients are hard-working individuals who have suffered the worst imaginable due to personal injury or death. Even in the era of 'tort reform,' I refuse to apologize for representing these people. It's a privilege. My aim is to help my clients achieve as much healing as the law allows, so they can rebuild their shattered lives." According to Mike, "true justice would require undoing the tragedy that has befallen my clients. However, we know that's impossible, which is why the law mandates full compensation to balance the harm and losses my clients have endured. I consider myself fortunate to make a positive difference in the lives of so many."
Trial work is Mike's true passion, and he thrives in the courtroom, tirelessly advocating for justice on behalf of his clients. Throughout his career, he has had the privilege of trying numerous cases, and in 2021, Mike was honored to be invited to join the prestigious American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA).
Mike holds a particular interest in representing the most vulnerable members of our community, specifically those who have suffered injuries or death due to nursing home negligence. He frequently speaks at legal education seminars on nursing home litigation and has contributed a chapter to the Nursing Home Litigation Deskbook published by the Washington State Association for Justice. In 2009-2010, Mike served as the Chair of the Nursing Home Litigation Section for the Washington State Association for Justice.
