About Edwin
Edwin S. Budge is a distinguished civil rights attorney based in Seattle, Washington, with over 30 years of legal experience. He specializes in cases involving police misconduct, jail and prison abuse, and wrongful death. Admitted to the Washington State Bar Association in 1994, Edwin has dedicated his career to advocating for victims of injustice. His commitment to civil rights is evident in his extensive litigation history and the significant impact he has made in the field. Edwin earned his Juris Doctor from Willamette University College of Law in 1994, graduating magna cum laude.
During his time in law school, he served as the Editor-in-Chief of the Willamette Law Review, where he developed his skills in legal writing and analysis. Prior to law school, he graduated summa cum laude from the University of Oregon in 1991 with a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Psychology. This strong academic foundation has greatly contributed to his analytical abilities and understanding of complex legal issues. After his admission to the Washington State Bar, Edwin began his legal career as an associate attorney at Karr Tuttle Campbell, a prominent Seattle law firm, from 1994 to 1997. His experience there provided him with a solid grounding in various aspects of law, preparing him for the challenges ahead. In 1997, he co-founded Budge & Heipt, PLLC, alongside fellow attorney Erik Heipt.
The firm is dedicated to representing victims of police brutality, excessive force, and in-custody wrongful deaths, reflecting Edwin's focus on civil rights and justice. Throughout his career, Edwin has litigated numerous cases in both state and federal courts across the United States. His efforts have resulted in favorable jury verdicts and settlements totaling over $45 million for his clients. This impressive track record shows his effectiveness as an advocate for those who have suffered due to systemic injustices. In recognition of his accomplishments, Edwin has been honored as a Washington 'Super Lawyer' in civil rights litigation, a designation reserved for the top attorneys in the state. In addition to his legal practice, Edwin is admitted to practice before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals and the United States District Court for the Western District of Washington.
He is also an active member of the Washington State Association for Justice, holding the title of Eagle Member since 2010. Outside of his professional endeavors, Edwin has a personal interest in natural bodybuilding, having won top prizes in contests across Washington, Northern California, and Arizona. He resides in Seattle with his wife, Averil, who is also an attorney, and their two children, balancing a fulfilling career with a vibrant family life.
