2023 Online Legal Forum

Over the last few years, conflicting state and local laws have changed everything from lease renewals to rent payment enforcement. Contradictory and unclear language make it difficult to predict how case law will unfold over the coming years. This is your chance to hear three attorneys, currently practicing landlord-tenant, real estate and business law across Washington, discuss your most difficult questions. Experienced property management professional and housing provider rights advocate, Cory Brewer will moderate questions and lead the discussion. 

_PANELISTS

Chris Benis | Attorney and Housing Provider, RHAWA Legal Counsel

Chris practices law with First Avenue Law Group, PLLC in Seattle, WA representing property management firms, individual real estate investors, and others in the real estate industry. He attended University of Washington, where he received a B.A. in Political Science, a Master of Urban Planning and J.D. from its School of Law.  Chris led his own law firm for 28 years before joining First Avenue Law Group a few years ago. He represents property management firms, individual real estate investors, real estate brokerages, industry trade associations, design professionals, and construction companies. He advises his clients on practical and understandable solutions to their legal needs and concerns. Chris is a regular speaker and author, drawing from over 30 years' experience as a “second generation” real estate investor. He serves as Legal Counsel for RHAWA and is a past-President of the organization.

 Christopher Cutting | Attorney and Housing Provider, RHAWA Vice President 

Christopher is known as a tireless advocate for housing providers.  He has been practicing residential and commercial landlord-tenant law, judgment enforcement, and appeals since 2009.  Christopher currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Rental Housing Association of Washington, is the 2021 Vice President of the organization, and is the Co-Chairman of their Legislative Committee. He is a frequent presenter at legal education courses hosted by state and local bar associations and private groups and is a licensed clock hours instructor for Washington Real Estate Brokers.  Christopher has also been the author or co-author of housing provider's official responses to several legal and legislative actions. 

Kaitlyn Jackson | Attorney and Housing Provider, RHAWA Board of Directors

Kaitlyn is an Associate Attorney at Dimension Law Group, PLLC. Kaitlyn’s practice focuses on Business Law, Commercial and Residential Real Estate, Landlord-Tenant matters, and Estate Planning. She currently serves on the Board of several non-profits, including the Executive Board of Highline Schools Foundation. In addition, Kaitlyn is heavily involved in leadership roles within Highline Soccer Association. Kaitlyn received her Juris Doctorate from Seattle University School of Law and two Bachelor’s Degrees from Seattle University. Prior to attending law school, Kaitlyn gained important legal experience as a paralegal at several large and mid-size law firms. Kaitlyn is passionate about helping people, families, and businesses navigate estate planning, business, and the ever-changing commercial and residential real estate markets. She is a member of the Washington State Bar Association and an active member of RHAWA, frequently teaching classes on landlord-tenant law.

_MODERATOR 

Cory Brewer | Attorney and Housing Provider, RHAWA Board of Directors

Cory Brewer is the VP of Residential Operations at Windermere Property Management / Lori Gill & Associates. His career as a real estate professional in the Greater Seattle Area dates back to 2003. In his role at WPM/LGA, his primary responsibilities include training, legal compliance, and conflict resolution for a brokerage representing over 1,500 rental houses and condos throughout King & Snohomish Counties. He is also a member of the RHAWA Board of Directors, and the NARPM State & Local Government Affairs Committee.