Chris Jackman is a dedicated attorney and the founder of The Jackman Law Firm, based in Seattle, Washington. Originally from Dallas, Texas, Chris’s career in law stems from a deep-rooted desire to help people in difficult situations. His firm specializes in personal injury, mass torts, sex abuse, and immigration law, and has expanded to Denver and Houston. Known for his strategic approach and commitment to justice, Chris has secured nearly $50 million in settlements since 2014.
I met with Chris on a busy day in his Seattle office. Despite his packed schedule, he greeted me warmly, sharing stories from his early days in Texas. “Growing up, I learned a lot about resilience and community,” he recalled. “My early church volunteer work showed me the importance of giving back. Law was just an extension of that for me.”
Early Life and Education
Chris was born and raised in Dallas, Texas, where his sense of justice and service began to take shape. He studied at Texas A&M for his undergraduate degree, earned a Master’s at the University of Wisconsin, and went on to Creighton University for law school. At Creighton, he worked as a clerk for a federal judge, gaining firsthand experience in the field. “Seeing justice in action made me realize I wanted to represent those who need help the most,” Chris shared.
Chris’s experience at Creighton, including his role as an editor on the law review, sharpened his analytical skills and strengthened his commitment to his chosen field. Reflecting on this time, he noted, “Being on the law review taught me the power of precision and discipline. Those skills shape everything I do today.”
Career Path
Chris launched The Jackman Law Firm in 2014, determined to build a client-focused practice dedicated to justice. “Starting my own firm was challenging,” he admitted, “but it allowed me to set my own standards for client care.” With offices now in Denver, Houston, and Bellevue, Chris’s firm is known for its focus on personal injury and mass tort cases. His team is praised for their communication, dedication, and results.
Chris takes pride in his clients’ successes, often guiding them through complex and emotional cases. “Helping people get their lives back on track after trauma is my reward,” he said. His compassionate yet strategic approach has earned him multiple awards, including recognition as a Super Lawyer.
Approach to Law
Chris’s focus on empathy and adaptability stems from a challenging early case. “We went up against a powerful insurance company and lost,” he recalled. “It taught me that no matter how prepared you are, perspectives matter. I learned to adapt and empathize.” This experience shaped his approach, making him a more versatile and insightful advocate.
With a firm belief in clear communication, Chris tailors his strategies to fit each case. He emphasizes understanding his clients’ needs and concerns, saying, “Law is more than facts and figures—it’s about people. Effective communication is about knowing what really matters to your client.”
Personal Life and Interests
Outside the office, Chris is dedicated to his family. He enjoys playing tennis, scuba diving, and traveling. Balancing a demanding career with quality family time keeps him grounded. “Tennis and diving are my outlets,” Chris shared. “They give me the energy to come back to work focused and motivated.”
Every morning, Chris starts his day by setting goals, both personal and professional. “I’m a big believer in writing down my goals,” he said. “It helps me stay on track and adjust when needed.”
Community and Philanthropy
Chris’s commitment to community is evident through his philanthropic efforts. His firm offers an annual $10,000 scholarship to a student who has overcome hardship. “Giving back is essential,” Chris explained. “It’s one way I can support the next generation.” He also volunteers his time, offering pro bono legal services to those who can’t afford representation.
Future Goals and Industry Insights
Looking ahead, Chris plans to expand his practice nationwide and integrate more technology into his firm. He’s particularly interested in tools that simplify the legal process for clients, such as virtual consultations. “Technology helps us meet clients where they are,” he said. “It’s about making justice accessible.”
When asked what advice he’d give to young lawyers, Chris offered this: “Stay true to why you started. The setbacks are just steps forward. Success isn’t just about winning cases; it’s about the impact you make.”
Key Takeaways
- Chris’s legal career was shaped by a desire to help those in need, guided by values learned in his Texas upbringing.
- His approach to law combines empathy with strategy, focusing on clear communication and client understanding.
- Success, for Chris, is defined by both professional impact and personal fulfillment through family, hobbies, and giving back to the community.
Interview with Chris Jackman
What keeps you motivated and excited about what you do?
What keeps me motivated is seeing the difference I can make in people’s lives. Every case represents someone who’s dealing with pain, confusion, or sometimes, loss. Being the person who stands beside them, guiding them through the mess and helping them find closure or justice—that’s what drives me every day. My clients’ resilience and trust are truly inspiring. It’s humbling to be part of their journey toward healing.
What’s your go-to way to relax and enjoy yourself during your downtime?
When I’m not working, you’ll usually find me on the tennis court or out scuba diving. I love tennis because it clears my mind and keeps me active. Scuba diving, though—that’s a whole different experience. There’s something peaceful about being underwater, where everything’s quiet and you’re just surrounded by nature. It’s a great way to hit ‘reset’ and come back to work with a fresh perspective.
What do you think is your single most crucial trait for success?
Persistence. There’s no substitute for it in law or in life. The nature of my work means that I often go up against well-funded opponents, like insurance companies, who fight hard. There are plenty of days when it would be easier to settle or walk away, but pushing forward when things get tough has made all the difference. Persistence has a way of opening doors you didn’t even know were there.
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in your career?
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of empathy. You’d think law is all facts and evidence, but I’ve found that understanding my clients on a personal level is just as important. People need to feel heard and seen, especially when they’re going through difficult times. Empathy helps me understand what really matters to them, and that guides how I approach each case. It’s also taught me that outcomes are often about more than just winning—it’s about making sure clients feel whole again.
How do you handle negative feedback when you receive it?
Negative feedback can sting, no doubt about it, but I try to see it as a tool for growth. Early on, I learned to look for any truth in the criticism, whether it’s from clients, colleagues, or even opposing counsel. If there’s something I can improve, I try to tackle it head-on. But if it’s just noise or someone being overly critical, I’ve learned to let it roll off my back. At the end of the day, I know who I am and what I bring to my work.
What’s the hardest obstacle you’ve overcome in your life or career, and how did you do it?
The biggest challenge was probably starting my own firm from scratch. I didn’t come from a legal dynasty or a background with endless resources—I built The Jackman Law Firm with nothing but determination and a vision. There were moments of serious doubt, especially in the first couple of years when I was still trying to find my footing. But I kept going by setting small goals, focusing on each client, and staying true to my mission of helping people. Seeing my practice grow over the years has been incredibly rewarding, and it’s a reminder that the hardest obstacles can lead to the greatest achievements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chris Jackman’s educational background?
Chris attended Texas A&M for his undergraduate degree, earned a Master’s at the University of Wisconsin, and completed his law degree at Creighton University School of Law. While at Creighton, he was on the law review and clerked for a federal judge.
What type of cases does Chris Jackman handle?
Chris specializes in personal injury, mass torts, sex abuse, and immigration cases. He is dedicated to advocating for individuals who face significant challenges, particularly against large entities like insurance companies.
Where are Chris Jackman’s offices located?
The Jackman Law Firm has offices in Seattle, Bellevue, Denver, and Houston, and the firm plans to expand nationally to provide accessible legal support across the U.S.
How many cases has Chris Jackman won?
Since founding The Jackman Law Firm in 2014, Chris has settled nearly a thousand cases and secured close to $50 million in settlements, helping clients achieve justice and recover financially.
What awards has Chris received?
Chris has been recognized multiple times as a “Super Lawyer,” an honor given to outstanding attorneys for their professional achievement and high standards in client service.
