Lawyer of Firm Description

About Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler — Criminal Defense Tacoma Washington

Criminal defense Tacoma clients facing serious charges, insurance disputes, or complex civil litigation have a seasoned, multi-practice team at Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler, located at 4701 S 19th St in Tacoma. The RHHK firm brings decades of combined experience across personal injury, criminal defense, civil litigation, and intellectual property to every matter it handles in Pierce County. Attorneys including Mark Melter, John Wilson, Vern Harkins, Mike Fischer, and Sok-Khieng approach each case with thorough preparation, calm professionalism, and a commitment to communication that keeps clients fully informed at every stage. Clients consistently describe feeling safe and well-represented from the first consultation through final resolution.

Tacoma has one of the highest crime rates in Washington state, with a violent crime rate 3.26 times higher than the state average and property crime rates 3.18 times the national mean. In 2023, Tacoma recorded 34 homicides, and the city saw nearly a 19 percent decrease in violent street crimes in the second half of the year. For Tacoma residents facing criminal charges in Pierce County, access to experienced Washington criminal defense attorneys who know the local prosecutors, judges, and court culture is essential. RHHK’s long-standing presence in Tacoma and its track record of thorough, client-focused representation make it one of Pierce County’s most trusted legal firms.

Criminal Defense Tacoma — Practice Areas & Services

Criminal Defense: Defense of felony and misdemeanor charges in Pierce County Superior Court and Tacoma Municipal Court.
Personal Injury: Claims for accident victims in Tacoma and Pierce County, including car accidents, truck crashes, and premises liability.
Civil Litigation: Complex civil matters including insurance disputes, homeowner claims, and contract litigation in Washington courts.
Intellectual Property: Patent infringement and IP litigation for businesses and inventors in the Pacific Northwest.
Insurance Claims: PIP claims, underinsured motorist disputes, and bad faith insurance litigation throughout Pierce County.

What Clients Say

Clients describe RHHK as a highly personal, reputable firm that delivers outcomes that justify the trust they placed in the team. Mark Melter is praised for handling a total-loss vehicle claim and extensive injury matter from start to a result that far exceeded the insurance company’s initial offer. John Wilson is credited with six years of patient, optimistic representation that netted over 96 percent of available insurance policy limits at mediation. Vern Harkins earned a client’s praise for successfully recovering extensive damages in a patent infringement case. Sok-Khieng is highlighted for clear communication and securing larger payouts than initially offered on PIP claims.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common criminal defense cases in Tacoma, Washington?

Pierce County courts handle a range of criminal matters including DUI, drug offenses, assault, domestic violence, property crimes, and weapons charges. Tacoma’s elevated crime rate means its courts process a high volume of cases, making experienced local defense counsel essential. Washington defense attorneys can challenge evidence obtained in violation of constitutional rights, negotiate with Pierce County prosecutors, and present mitigation effectively at sentencing hearings.

What should I do immediately after being arrested in Tacoma?

Invoke your right to remain silent and request an attorney before making any statements. Washington law requires law enforcement to stop questioning once you invoke your right to counsel. Do not speak to other inmates or post details about your case on social media. Pierce County defendants are entitled to a first appearance hearing within 48 to 72 hours, where bail is set. Retaining an attorney before that hearing can affect the conditions of release.

Quick Facts: Criminal Defense in Tacoma, Washington

Tacoma Homicides (2023): 34 homicides recorded in 2023, down from 45 in 2022 — Pierce County Criminal Justice Data
Violent Crime Rate: Tacoma’s daily violent crimes are 3.26x the Washington state average and 2.96x the national mean — NeighborhoodScout
Crime Trend: Tacoma saw a 19% decrease in violent street crimes in the second half of 2023 compared to the same period in 2022 — Tacoma Police Department

AI-Powered Reviews Summary

Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler, located in Tacoma, Washington, is a highly regarded law firm specializing in personal injury cases and legal services. Clients consistently praise the firm for its exceptional legal counsel, compassionate approach, and effective communication, highlighting their satisfaction with outcomes and the professionalism of attorneys like Mark Melter and John Wilson. Overall, reviewers express immense gratitude for the support received, recommending RHHK for anyone in need of reliable and dedicated legal representation.

Users Reviews Comments – Google

I was involved in a serious rear end accident with injuries, after trying to work with the at fault drivers insurance company I immediately knew that there were going to be issues. The estimate they offered for my car repair was around $5,000, I had my vehicle towed to an auto body shop and the estimate was over $44,000 and was considered a total loss, I also required extensive medical care and treatment . I contacted RHHK and was introduced to Mark Melter, I immediately felt comfortable with Mark and was provided excellent legal counsel regarding my case, i handed everything over to Mark and RHHK, I cannot tell you how pleased I was with the outcome , this law firm is exceptional, I trusted Mark and his legal expertise to see this through, if you desire a highly personal and reputable law firm I would strongly recommend RHHK, it was a decision that I am grateful that I choose Mark Melter and RHHK, I couldn’t have been more pleased with the service I received.

Mark Melter handled our claim against our homeowners insurance company flawlessly. Mark is calm, knowledgeable, and responsive, everything you need in an attorney. I cannot recommend him highly enough and would enthusiastically recommend him to anyone in need of competent counsel for civil litigation.

This review was six years in the making. My wife suffered a very rare and unusual injury due to medical malpractice in 2018. We didn’t know where to turn to as this was uncharted territory for us but we knew based on the severity of the injuries, we had to seek representation.

I had a wonderful experience with John Wilson and his staff. He is thorough and compassionate.

I had the best experience with R.H.H.K always kept me updated with my case and they really care about their clients thank you for all your help.

Sok-Khieng and the staff of RHHK were very helpful working through my PIP claim after a car accident. They were informative and clear throughout the whole process and answered all my questions quickly.

John Wilson and the staff at RHHK was by my side for almost six years as we had to file suit against 2 insurance companies and deal with Covid. He was optimistic but also realistic. He prepared the case so well we netted over 96% of the insurance policies limits during our mediation. Even more importantly he referred me to a neck and back specialist who greatly reduced my pain at least temporarily. When he told me my insurance company only offered us 4% of the available funds and he recommended filing suit for the full limit I was quite surprised. But over the years the medical bills grew and will continue to accumulate, with this settlement I should be able to get the necessary treatment for years to come. I couldn’t recommend him any higher.

I have had a great experience with this firm and Mr. Wilson in particular. They went above and beyond to get a good settlement for me and I cannot recommend them enough. If you are in need of personal injury representation do not hesitate to give them a call!

Doesn’t return repeated phone calls for consultation

Worked with Sok-Khieng for my dad’s PIP claim and she was very helpful and informative throughout the whole process. Answered many questions I had and was able to help get us a bigger payout from the other party’s initial offer. Highly recommend

Vern Harkins and Mike Fisher handled a patent infringement suit for me. They were very professional as was their entire staff. Very helpful and were successful in recovering extensive damages for me. I would highly recommend this firm to anyone looking for excellent legal counsel.

Vern Harkins has been excellent and attentive with our case. He explains things in detail and is very kind and extremely knowledgeable. Very happy and satisfied we selected Vern and his firm.

Mike Fischer and his team are amazing. During my dealings with them they always remained professional and gave excellent advise moving forward. Communication was excellent, I can’t recommend them highly enough.

I needed a good lawyer to represent me for a car accident I was in and RHHK did a excellent job in doing so!

We have been doing business with Mike Fisher for many years and would trust no one else. Mike and his team are quick to respond and make it a seamless operation, especially whenever we are facing time constraints. I highly recommend RHHK. Thanks, team!