Darrah N. Hinton
Associate
Darrah Hinton draws on her litigation experience as a former prosecutor and union association president to help employers navigate the full spectrum of labor and employment challenges. Her practice spans traditional labor relations—including collective bargaining negotiations, grievance arbitrations, unfair labor practice proceedings, and union organizing campaigns—as well as workplace investigations into employee misconduct, harassment, and discrimination complaints.
Darrah also counsels employers on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, helping clients develop compliant policies and navigate the evolving legal landscape surrounding DEI programs. Her workplace violence practice encompasses addressing safety issues in the employment context and assisting employers in obtaining protection orders on behalf of affected employees. Darrah also defends employers against claims of discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and wrongful termination, in both court proceedings and before state and federal agencies.
Darrah partners with clients across industries—including healthcare, food and beverage, law enforcement, nonprofits, public sector employers, and private businesses—to develop labor relations strategies tailored to their operational needs. She approaches labor relations as an ongoing relationship, seeking collaborative solutions where possible while vigorously advocating for her clients' interests when disputes require it. Whether guiding employers through collective bargaining, conducting sensitive workplace investigations, or defending against litigation, she brings a practical, client-focused approach to each matter.
Admitted to Practice
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Washington, 2018
Education
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J.D., Seattle University School of Law, 2017
- Moot Court Board
- Managing Editor, Seattle Journal for Social Justice
- Secretary and Chapter Liaison, Black Law Students Association
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B.A., English, Seattle University, 2011
- Hall of Fame Inductee
- Leadership Award Winner
Memberships & Affiliations
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- Legal Fellow, Washington Leadership Institute, 2022
- Loren Miller Bar Association
- National Black Lawyers: Top 40 under 40 – Washington
Professional Recognition
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- Named "One to Watch" by Best Lawyers in Litigation - Labor and Employment, 2025-2026; in Labor and Employment Law - Management, 2026
- Social Justice Award, Loren Miller Bar Association, 2024
- Project Management Certification, Franklin Covey
Background
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- Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, Felony Trial Unit, King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office, Seattle, 2019-2022
- Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, Snohomish County Prosecuting Attorney's Office, Everett, Wash., 2018-2019
- Graduate Recruiter, Office of Admissions, Seattle University School of Law, Seattle, 2017
- Rule 9 Legal Intern, Domestic Violence Unit, Criminal Division, King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office, Seattle, 2017
- Research Assistant, Fred T. Korematsu Center for Law & Equality, Seattle, 2016
- Rule 9 Legal Intern, District Court Unit, Snohomish County Prosecuting Attorney's Office, Everett, Wash., 2016
- Legal Extern, Special Assault Unit, Criminal Division, King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office, Seattle, 2015
- Legal Administrator, Labor and Employment Law, Cline & Associates, Seattle, 2010-2014