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Desktop Image: Dent, Kathy
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Kathy Dent

Of Counsel

T 503.778.5416 Portland
I’m energized when I get to work with a client to puzzle through a complex employment issue.
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Kathy Dent helps employers of all sizes navigate the complex array of state and federal employment laws. From anti-harassment to medical leave, she helps employers implement policies that comply with applicable law, and helps promote the employer’s business objectives and culture.

In her more than 20 years of experience, Kathy has advised countless employers on best practices for managing their workforce. She also regularly negotiates and drafts contracts concerning all aspects of the employment relationship, including employment contracts, independent contractor agreements, severance agreements, noncompetition, and confidentiality agreements.

Kathy regularly defends employers against claims of discrimination, harassment, retaliation, wrongful discharge, and contract disputes. She provides employers with practical advice on the best strategy for defending against any such claims while promoting the employer’s business objectives and priorities.

Kathy’s 22 years of experience includes more than six years as in-house counsel for PacifiCorp, which gives her firsthand knowledge of cost-effective ways to partner with clients and provide responsive, results-oriented counsel.


Practice Highlights

Best practices

Assisting companies to develop and implement best practices for managing complex employee issues including performance management, misconduct, discipline, and family and medical leave issues.

Compliance

Assisting companies to navigate complex state and federal leave laws and to implement policies that comply with applicable laws and promote the company’s business objectives and culture.

Advocacy

Evaluating employment claims for the purpose of conducting a realistic risk assessment and providing a recommendation for the best strategy to defend against such claims.

Admitted to Practice

  • Oregon, 1996

Education

  • J.D., University of Nebraska School of Law
  • M.A., Social Psychology, University of Nebraska
  • B.A., Psychology, Willamette University

Memberships & Affiliations

    • President, Oregon Lawyers Against Hunger, 2005-2007
    • Labor and Employment Section, American Bar Association, 1996-present
    • Oregon and Federal Bar Associations, 1996-present
    • Oregon Women Lawyers Association, 2014-present

Professional Recognition

    • Named one of the "Best Lawyers in America" in Employment Law - Management by Best Lawyers, 2021-present

Background

    • Assistant General Counsel, PacifiCorp, Portland, Ore., 2012-2014
    • Senior Counsel, PacifiCorp, Portland, Ore., 2008-2012
    • Partner, Davis Wright Tremaine LLP, Portland, Ore., 2004-2006
    • Associate, Davis Wright Tremaine LLP, Portland, Ore., 1996-2003
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©1996-2022 Davis Wright Tremaine LLP. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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©1996-2022 Davis Wright Tremaine LLP. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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