About John C.
John C. Kouklis is an attorney based in Tacoma, Washington, with over five decades of experience in personal injury law. He earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Michigan Law School in 1970 and holds a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering from Kettering University, which he completed in 1963. Before embarking on his legal career, Mr. Kouklis served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy Civil Engineer Corps from 1963 to 1967. This military background provided him with a strong foundation in leadership and discipline, qualities that have served him well in his legal practice. In 1970, after completing his military service and law school, Mr.
Kouklis joined Davies Pearson, P.C., a well-respected law firm in Tacoma. He quickly became a shareholder in the firm, where he practiced until 1989. His tenure at Davies Pearson allowed him to develop a robust expertise in various legal matters, including personal injury, estate planning, and real estate. In 1989, he transitioned to public service when he was appointed as the Chief Assistant City Attorney for Tacoma. He held this position until his retirement in 1999, contributing significantly to the city’s legal framework during his tenure. Following his retirement from the city attorney's office, Mr. Kouklis returned to Davies Pearson as "Of Counsel," where he continued to provide legal services and mentorship to younger attorneys. His experience has made him a respected figure in the Tacoma legal community.
Since his admission to the Washington State Bar Association in 1970, he has maintained an active role in various legal organizations, including the Tacoma-Pierce County Bar Association and the American Bar Association. Community service is another vital aspect of Mr. Kouklis's life. He has served as a director and incorporator for the White River Youth Coalition, an organization focused on supporting local youth. Additionally, he has been a director for Safety First Personal Protection Strategies, a non-profit dedicated to safety training. His commitment to community involvement reflects his belief in giving back and supporting the welfare of those around him. Beyond his legal and community endeavors, Mr. Kouklis is a dedicated martial artist, holding a fifth-degree black belt in Isshinryu Karate.
He enjoys teaching younger students, sharing the discipline and focus that martial arts require. He often draws parallels between martial arts and the ideals of ancient Greek philosophy, emphasizing the importance of discipline, respect, and perseverance. Fluent in Greek, Mr. Kouklis has also been an active member of the Tacoma chapter of the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA). Today, he continues to reside in Tacoma, remaining active in both his legal practice and community involvement.
