About Robert
Robert C. Mussehl is a seasoned trial lawyer based in Seattle, Washington, with over 55 years of experience in personal injury law. He graduated from the American University Law School in Washington, D.C., in 1966. During his time there, Mussehl served as class president and earned the Delta Theta Phi Scholarship Award, distinguishing himself as one of the top 7.5% of his class. Following his graduation, he was admitted to the Washington State Bar Association in 1967, starting a long and impactful legal career. Mussehl's early career began at Skeel, McKelvy, Henke & Betts, now known as Betts, Patterson & Mines.
For the first 14 years, he concentrated primarily on insurance defense cases. This foundational experience provided him with a knowledge of the insurance industry, which would later inform his practice when he transitioned to representing injured plaintiffs. His shift in focus aimed to secure fair and just settlements and trial outcomes for those who had suffered injuries due to negligence. In addition to personal injury law, Mussehl has a notable background in sports law. He has represented several NBA players, including Spencer Haywood, Fred Brown, Slick Watts, and Zaid Abdul Aziz (formerly Don Smith). His work involved extensive contract negotiations, showcasing his versatility and expertise in a unique area of law.
Furthermore, Mussehl was the majority owner and CEO of the Seattle Smashers, a professional co-ed volleyball team that played at the Seattle Center Arena from 1976 to 1980, blending his focus on sports with his legal acumen. Mussehl's commitment to alternative dispute resolution is also noteworthy. He served as a certified panel member of the American Arbitration Association for over 35 years, facilitating resolutions outside of traditional court settings. Additionally, he volunteered as a mediator for the Settlement Now Program in King County, which aimed to reduce court congestion and promote efficient dispute resolution. His dedication to the legal community extended to his role as a King County Superior Court judge pro tempore and as a member of the American Bar Association's House of Delegates for 12 years, contributing to the development of legal standards and practices. In 2022, Mussehl retired from active practice and took Honorary status with the Washington State Bar Association, recognizing his extensive contributions to the field of law.
Despite his retirement, he remains dedicated to community service through his involvement with Lawyers Helping Hungry Children, an organization he co-founded to support children in need. Throughout his distinguished career, Mussehl has been recognized for his legal ability, integrity. Professional reliability, holding an A-V rating from Martindale-Hubbell and a Level 10 (Superb) rating from AVVO, underscoring his commitment to excellence in the legal profession.
