A headshot of Kellen Patterson.

Kellen F. Patterson

Counsel
Seattle

Kellen Patterson is a construction attorney specializing in complex construction contracts, claims, and disputes. Kellen handles the full range of dispute resolution and litigation proceedings with a track record of effectively resolving clients’ construction-related legal problems.

Kellen represents and advises private and public owners, including in connection with major public works infrastructure projects. She also represents architecture and engineering firms against professional liability claims and in construction contract claims and disputes. Kellen’s claims and litigation experience includes high-stakes disputes about increased construction costs, delay, differing site conditions, tunneling, public procurement, force majeure, and professional negligence/design errors & omissions. Notable construction projects Kellen has advised on include the downtown Seattle SR 99 tunnel boring project, the Sound Transit Link Light Rail system, seaport terminal expansions, and Honolulu’s Skyline rail system.

Kellen’s depth and breadth of experience make her a valuable advisor at all stages of construction, anticipating and avoiding disputes and effectively resolving them when they arise. She is recognized by Chambers USA as an up-and-coming talent in her field and clients appreciate her “strategic” approach, clear communication, and strong work ethic.

Professional Highlights

Professional Activities

American Council of Engineering Companies

Washington State Bar Association, Construction Section Member

Leadership Council on Legal Diversity, Pathfinder, 2023

Recognition & Accomplishments

Chambers USA, "Up and Coming," Construction (Washington), 2024, 2025

Best Lawyers, "Ones to Watch," Commercial Litigation, Transportation, 2022-2026; Construction Litigation, 2023-2026; Construction Law, 2024-2026

Thomson Reuters, "Washington Rising Star," Construction Litigation, 2020-2025

Puget Sound Business Journal, "Next Generation in Law," 2022

Speaking Engagements

"Legal Issues Affecting Designers," The Seminar Group, September 26, 2025

"Your Rights and Remedies in Construction Disputes; A Guide for Owners," WSAMA Spring Conference, April 25, 2025

"Attorney's Insights: Construction Claims Avoidance & Risk Management," CMAA Annual Construction Conference, April 18, 2025

Board Memberships & Community Service

Seattle Architecture Foundation, Board Member, 2023-2025

Washington Women Lawyers, State Board Member & King County Chapter Board Member, 2018-2022

Credentials 

Education

University of Washington School of Law (J.D. 2015)
National Moot Court Team (2014-2015)
National Heritage Moot Court Competition, Semi-finalist (2014)

Gonzaga University (B.Ed., Elementary and Special Education Teaching Certificates magna cum laude, 2010)

Admissions

Washington

U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Washington

U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington