LaurenParris Watts

Partner

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Lauren helps her clients create inclusive workplace cultures, manage the challenges and opportunities of a complex workforce, and avoid litigation risk.


More About Lauren

Lauren is an experienced litigator and trusted advisor who handles high-stakes employment disputes and crisis management. She leads with a strategic focus on defending complex discrimination claims, navigating sensitive workplace investigations, and mitigating litigation risks for clients across industries.

Lauren has built a reputation as a go-to attorney for handling bet-the-company litigation, particularly in cases involving wrongful termination, harassment, retaliation, and discrimination claims under federal and state laws. She has successfully defended major employers in high-profile lawsuits, including multiplaintiff cases and appeals to the 9th Circuit and Washington Court of Appeals. Her representative matters include securing summary judgments, dismissals, and sanctions in cases involving religious discrimination, vaccine mandates, gender and sexual discrimination, and failure to accommodate claims.

Lauren’s skill set extends beyond litigation to proactive risk management and workplace culture transformation. She advises employers on diversity and inclusion initiatives, cultural assessments, and risk-reduction audits, helping clients align their employment practices with broader business objectives. Her creative problem-solving and strategic guidance enable clients to navigate complex personnel issues, negotiate severance agreements, and implement effective change management strategies.

In addition to her litigation and advisory work, Lauren co-chairs Seyfarth’s Workplace Investigations & Crisis Management practice group, where she provides counsel on sensitive investigations, company messaging, and post-investigation steps such as discipline, training, and process improvement. Her ability to manage crises effectively has made her an invaluable resource for clients facing reputational and operational risks.

  • JD, Seattle University School of Law
  • BA, Johns Hopkins University
  • Washington
  • US District Court, Eastern District of Washington
  • US District Court, Western District of Washington