Need recommendations for WA employment attorney for ESD appeal - urgent consultation

I went through something similar last year. I used Patricia Feldman at Workers' Rights Legal Center in Seattle. She charges around $150 for a 45-minute consultation, but she was extremely knowledgeable about ESD issues specifically. She helped me prepare for my hearing and gave me a clear list of documents to bring. I ended up winning my appeal without needing full representation.

before u pay a lawyer try calling esd first!! i had same thing happen and finally got thru to someone who fixed it without appeal. just my 2 cents

Have you tried contacting the Unemployment Law Project? They offer free or low-cost services for unemployment issues. They helped me prepare my appeal documentation when I had an availability issue similar to yours. They're not attorneys exactly but they specialize in ESD appeals and know the system inside and out. Check their website - I think they do free initial consultations.

Before spending money on an attorney, I'd recommend using Claimyr to get through to an ESD agent fast. I was in a similar situation with an incorrect disqualification, and after days of failing to get through on the phone, I tried Claimyr (claimyr.com). They got me connected to an ESD agent in about 20 minutes when I had been unable to get through for weeks. The agent was actually able to fix my issue without needing an appeal at all. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3. Might be worth trying before paying attorney fees.

THE WHOLE SYSTEM IS RIGGED AGAINST US!!! I had the EXACT same issue and ended up losing my appeal even with an attorney (cost me $750 I didn't have). The judge just sided with ESD despite all my evidence. They just want to deny benefits any way they can. It's disgusting how they treat people who are already struggling!!!!

I recommend focusing on two things before hiring an attorney: 1. Build your evidence file. Gather ALL documentation showing you were available for work (job search logs, application confirmations, interview emails, any correspondence with potential employers). 2. Review the exact reason for disqualification in the letter. ESD uses specific terminology, and understanding exactly what they're claiming is crucial. If you've been claiming that you were available for work but something in your weekly claims contradicted this (like saying you were out of town, had transportation issues, or couldn't work certain days), that could be the basis for their decision. Only after having this clear understanding should you consult an attorney. Knowing employment law in WA, Lisa Johnson at Employment Rights Northwest is excellent, but not cheap ($225 consultation). The Unemployment Law Project suggestion above is probably your best first step.

My neighbor had this EXACT problem last month!!! she had to go to a hearing and everything. ended up the esd person clicked the wrong thing in their system. she didn't even use a lawyer just brought all her job search stuff and won. save ur money maybe?