Jeffrey A. Brown graduated from Western Washington University with a BA in Anthropology. He obtained his Certificate in the post-baccalaureate Lawyer’s Assistant Program from the University of San Diego. He has been employed at our firm since 1996. He is married to Laurie and they have three children.
He enjoys being a referee for soccer in his off time, vacationing to different parts of the world and restoring his 1901 home.
Jessie joined the firm in February, 2017 as a litigation paralegal. She earned her degree in paralegal studies through Edmonds Community College in 2011. Prior to joining this firm, she worked in pre-litigation plaintiff's personal injury, and in employer defense (workers' comp, WISHA/DOSH, ESD, L&I audits, and employment law) managing claims both at the administrative level and litigating before the Board of Industrial Insurance Appeals. Jessie loves the challenges and learning opportunities that come with defense work, and was thrilled to join Simmons Sweeney Smith. Jessie moved to North Carolina in 2020 and continues to work full time in a remote capacity.
Outside of work, Jessie's favorite activities include watching NHL or WHL hockey, road tripping, and walking or hiking with her husband and their dogs.
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Sunaina obtained her Law degree from India and a Master in Laws degree from the University of California, Hastings College of the Law. Sunaina has extensive litigation experience working as a paralegal in personal injury, commercial litigation, premises liability, timber trespass, wrongful death, property damage, and UM/UIM matters.
Outside of work, Sunaina enjoys exploring the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest and traveling to new places with her family.
Justine has been in the legal field for the last 20 years in different positions. She is dedicated to helping her clients get the results they need and want through the professional application of the law. She carries a wealth of experience within the legal realm.
Justine received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Public Administration from University of Hawaii where she focused on Justice Administration. She received her Master of Public Administration (MPA) from Central Michigan University. She enjoys education to better serve the people.
Justine moved from Washington to Texas in September 2016. She enjoys her life as a wife and mother. She also enjoys helping marginalized women with addictive behaviors live a healthier lifestyle. She is devoted to the community around her and gives back at every chance.
Kim Swendt
Paralegal
Kim@SSSLawGroup.com
Kim is from Bellingham, Washington and worked for the firm many years ago. She rejoined the firm in July 2021. Kim has 31 years of experience as a paralegal in personal injury insurance defense, wrongful death, product liability, construction defect, timber trespass, school law, employment & discrimination law, and breach of contract law. Kim received her degree in paralegal studies in 1990 from Skagit Valley College.
Kim lives in Beaverton, Oregon and works full-time remotely. In her free time, she enjoys time with her family (especially her two grandchildren), time with friends, trying new recipes and gardening.
Patti Whitaker has been with the firm since January 2017. As our Administrative Assistant, she manages the front desk and assists the paralegals and attorneys with various projects. Although new to the legal world, Patti has thirty years of office experience, which includes insurance billing, handling L&I claims, and managing a veterinary hospital.
In her off time, Patti is an avid horse lover. She spends most of her weekends competing in various barrel racing events or enjoying a scenic trail ride with friends and family.
Rayna grew up in Bellingham. She earned her AA degree from Whatcom Community College. She has been employed at our firm since 2000.
Outside of the office, Rayna enjoys spending time with her husband and four kids – watching a variety of youth sports, trail running and camping.
Sandra Dutton
Accounting
Sandra Dutton has been in the accounting profession since 1971. She started her business, Sandra's Accounting, in 1984, and has been with our firm since 1999.
Outside of work, Sandra enjoys playing golf, traveling, and gardening - not necessarily in that order.