Why Ryan, Swanson & Cleveland
If your business needs a law firm that has been around longer than most of its competitors have been alive, Ryan, Swanson & Cleveland is it. The firm has navigated every economic era in Seattle's history, representing businesses through the timber era, the Boeing years, the tech boom, and beyond. Today they serve startups, established companies, healthcare organizations, and franchise systems from their downtown Seattle office. Their employment and franchise practice groups are especially well regarded. The firm won't be the cheapest option in town, but for businesses that need experienced, reliable counsel, their track record speaks for itself.
Practice Areas
Key Attorneys
Business Practice Partner
Partner — Business
M&A, Entity Formation, Commercial Contracts
Employment Law Partner
Partner — Employment
Employer Defense, Wage & Hour, Non-Competes
Franchise Practice Lead
Partner — Franchise
Franchise Agreements, FDD Review, Distribution
Client Reviews
★★★★★
"We used Ryan Swanson to structure our partnership agreement and negotiate our first major supply contract. The business team was methodical and spotted issues our startup team would have missed. Worth every dollar."
★★★★★
"A former employee filed a discrimination claim against our company. Ryan Swanson's employment team responded quickly, assessed the facts clearly, and handled the entire matter professionally. Resolved in our favor."
★★★★☆
"I was buying into a franchise system and wanted the FDD reviewed by someone who really knows the space. Ryan Swanson's franchise team identified three clauses that could have cost me significantly over a 10-year term. Highly recommend."
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Ryan, Swanson & Cleveland serves businesses of all sizes. Tell us what you need.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What business entity types does Ryan Swanson help form?
The firm handles formation of LLCs, corporations (C-corp and S-corp), limited partnerships, general partnerships, and professional entities. They also help clients convert between entity types and restructure existing businesses.
What is a Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)?
An FDD is a legal document that franchisors must provide to prospective franchisees under federal law before any sale. It contains 23 items covering the franchisor's history, financial statements, fees, obligations, and litigation history. Having an experienced franchise attorney review it before signing can save you significant money and legal exposure.
Does Ryan Swanson handle immigration law for businesses?
Yes. The firm has an immigration practice group that assists businesses with employment-based visas (H-1B, L-1, O-1), PERM labor certification, and I-9 compliance — important for Seattle's tech and healthcare sectors.
Can Ryan Swanson serve as outside general counsel?
Yes. Many mid-size businesses retain Ryan, Swanson & Cleveland as their outside general counsel, handling a broad range of ongoing legal needs at lower cost than maintaining in-house legal staff. This is especially common for companies in the $5M–$100M revenue range.
Quick Facts
Founded1897
Firm SizeMid-Size (11–50 attorneys)
Fee StructureHourly / Retainer
Free ConsultationYes
LanguagesEnglish
Virtual AvailableYes
Typical Rate$350–$600/hour
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