Schwabe is excited to welcome Laurie Thornton to the firm. Armed with extensive experience in complex bankruptcy and restructuring matters, Laurie greatly enhances our ability to help clients navigate the intricate legal and procedural landscape of the bankruptcy system. She will provide practical, strategic legal advice to debtors, secured creditors, trustees, and creditors’ committees.

Laurie brings a wealth of specialized knowledge to the firm. She has served as lead counsel in numerous Chapter 11 cases and state court receiverships across multiple jurisdictions, including Washington, Montana, Alaska, and Delaware. In addition to her extensive client-facing work, Laurie possesses a deep understanding of internal court functions. She previously managed the U.S. Trustee’s Seattle field office and spent nearly a decade serving in chambers with a Ninth Circuit bankruptcy judge.

“I enjoy helping clients understand all aspects of the bankruptcy and restructuring system, how bankruptcy can work for them, and the relief it can provide,” said Laurie. “My goal is to offer tailored solutions that support their business objectives and deliver clarity during challenging financial transitions.”

“This is a home run for Schwabe, and we very much look forward to having Laurie on the team,” said Joel Parker, head of Schwabe’s Litigation group. “Her unique background and strategic insights will significantly strengthen our firm’s ability to advise clients that may be facing complex bankruptcy issues and restructuring challenges.”

Adding Laurie to the Schwabe team underscores the firm’s commitment to delivering exceptional legal services based on deep industry knowledge. It also reflects a shared commitment to a balanced approach to work and life. When she is not advocating for clients or developing case strategies, Laurie enjoys getting outdoors, running, hiking, and traveling with her daughters.