Sam Chalfant provides legal advice and litigation-specific representation to public school districts throughout the Puget Sound region. He represents districts in special education matters including counseling, advice and all phases of dispute resolution. He also provides representation and guidance in the areas of human resources, student discipline, privacy, due process, and nondiscrimination. 

Prior to working at Pacifica, Sam was a partner in the education law practice group of a Puget Sound-based law firm that served public school districts throughout the region. During law school, Sam interned with the Education Division of the Washington State Office of the Attorney General.

In his free time, Sam enjoys being with his wife and two young children. He also paints and is an avid reader.

Bar Admissions:

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

Education:

• University of Puget Sound, B.A.
• University of Wisconsin – Madison School of Education, M.S.
• University of Wisconsin Law School, J.D., cum laude, Order of the Coif

Speaking:

• WSPA 2016 School Law Conference: Boundary Invasions: The Fundamentals and Best Practices
• WSPA 2015 School Law Conference: Cars, Backpacks and Cellphones: Search and Seizure of Students and Staff
• WSPA 2014 School Law Conference: Non-employees In Your Buildings—From Guests You Invite To Those You Don’t

Community Involvement:

• Kent Youth and Family Services, Board Member 2017-2021
• Communities in Schools, Volunteer Mentor 2014-2017

Professional Organizations:

• South King County Bar Association, Member
• South King County Legal Clinic, Volunteer Attorney 2013-2016

Representative Matters:

• Carroll v. Renton School District, No. 81411-7-I. Successfully defended lower court’s summary judgment dismissal of discrimination claims brought by former school district employee.
• Wong v. Seattle School District, Case No. C16-1774-RAJ. Successfully defended public school district against claims of discrimination and emotional damages related to the services it provided a student.