Foster Care Abuse Lawyer Washington Get Your Life
Back on Track

  • Millions won for clients
  • Award-winning attorneys
  • Affordable legal services

A Team Washington Trusts Representing Your Best Interests

Strong Legal Representation

No matter how complex your case, Loren Cochran and Cole Douglas aren’t afraid to stand up for your rights. They’ve taken big organizations and government agencies to court and won.

A Safe Space to Share

If you endured abuse or neglect in the foster care system, it can be hard to talk about. At Cochran Douglas, we give you the space you need to share your story at your pace and on your terms. Meetings with our attorneys are always completely confidential.

Timely Communication

We do everything we can to keep our clients updated on the status of their cases. If you have a question, your calls and emails will receive a fast response. You can also meet with us when and where it’s convenient for you, whether this is your home, our law office, or via Zoom.


 

Our attorneys at Cochran Douglas have helped foster children and adults who have experienced sexual abuse and other forms of abuse find their voice and take legal action. Our team is dedicated to upholding your privacy, achieving your goals, and giving you the confidence you need to move forward.

Changing Clients’ Lives Our Law Firm's Case Results

Loren Cochran and Cole Douglas have stood up for victims of foster care abuse and held foster parents, foster care agencies, and the state of Washington accountable for their negligence. We’ve secured life-changing verdicts such as:

$3.8 Million

Cole Douglas personally secured a settlement of $3.8 million from the State of Washington Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) for their failure to investigate allegations of sexual abuse and harassment.

$3.25 Million

Our foster care abuse lawyers secured a sexual abuse settlement when DSHS failed to investigate allegations of abuse and neglect.

$3.1 Million

Our attorneys held DSHS accountable and secured a sexual abuse settlement when DSHS placed a state-dependent child with a convicted child rapist.

$2.75 Million

Cochran Douglas took on DSHS when they failed to protect a foster child from sexual abuse and harassment.

Hold Your Abusers Accountable With the Help of Our Washington Attorneys

Loren Cochran has been practicing in Washington since 2002 and has been named a Super Lawyer every year since 2014, an achievement bestowed upon no more than 5% of lawyers in the state. He’s also earned a spot on the National Trial Lawyers Top 100, an invitation-only group of attorneys who have consistently demonstrated commendable leadership and reputation.

Cole Douglas was named a Rising Star by Super Lawyers every year from 2018 to 2022, a distinction bestowed upon 2.5% of young attorneys in Washington. He has also been named among the Top 40 Under 40 list by the National Trial Lawyers.

Together, our attorneys can help build your case and hold your abusers accountable so you can move forward and your abusers can’t harm other children in the system. We invite you to reach out to our legal office so our team can help you gather evidence to build a strong case and explore resources for building a better future for yourself.

Washington attorneys Loren Cochran and Cole Douglas

“Kind, helpful, and professional.”

1

Edward

Tacoma, WA

2025

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Cochran Douglas law firm provided exceptional legal support, demonstrating professionalism, expertise, and clear communication. Highly recommend!

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Savannah

Tacoma, WA

2024

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I'm so grateful to have found them. They were incredibly on top of my case and they helped me reach a larger settlement than anticipated. Everyone was so kind, helpful, and professional ❤ eternally appreciative of their efforts.

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Legal Services
Made Affordable

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We want quality representation to be available to our clients, no matter their financial situation. To this end, we offer free consultations so it costs you nothing to meet with an attorney and determine if you have a case. We also work on contingency—you owe us nothing unless and until we win your case. Additionally, if your case goes to trial, your rate stays the same.

RAINN Makes a Difference

RAINN's victim service programs have helped more than 3.5 million people since 1995. An average of 27,000 people benefit from their services every month.

The Statute of Limitations Varies From Case to Case

Washington state capitol building

Civil Suit

When filing a civil claim, the statute of limitations will depend on the form of abuse you endured. Sexual abuse that occurred before June 6, 2024, has a statute of limitations of three years, but sexual abuse that occurred after that date does not have a statute of limitations.

Criminal Charges

When filing criminal charges, the statute of limitations will depend on the nature of the abuse or neglect. However, if sexual abuse took place in a foster home when you were under the age of 16, there is no statute of limitations.

Our foster care abuse attorneys in Washington can determine how much time you have to file a claim and the avenues you can take to secure the best possible outcome.

Standing Up for Children and Adults When the Foster Care System Fails Them

When the foster care system works, children are placed into safe homes with a stable environment where they are given everything they need to feel supported. The arrangement is temporary and lasts until the child can be reunited with their birth parents or another permanent solution is determined.

Unfortunately, some individuals take advantage of the foster care system, leaving children with physical and mental concerns that can last into adulthood.

If the foster care system failed you, our Washington attorneys can guide you through the legal system and toward a positive outcome.

Are You in a Bad Situation? Here’s What You Can Do:

If you or someone you love is the victim of foster care abuse, your priority should be getting out of the dangerous situation by notifying authorities and getting the medical and psychological help you need. We can help you on both fronts, and then put together a case.
If you or someone you love is the victim of foster care abuse, your priority should be getting out of the dangerous situation by notifying authorities and getting the medical and psychological help you need. We can help you on both fronts, and then put together a case.

Tell an Adult

If you’re in a position to do so, tell an adult you trust about the abuse or neglect. This could be a teacher, librarian, counselor, coach, mentor, or a friend’s parent. Many adults who work with children and the public (school personnel, medical professionals, law enforcement, etc.) are mandated reporters who are legally required to report suspected child abuse and neglect.

Notify Law Enforcement

Contact your local law enforcement agency to report an incident that's no longer in progress. You can find your district office phone number on the Washington State Patrol website. You can also report the abuse or neglect to the DCYF at (888) 713-6115.

Seek Medical Care

If you’ve been hurt, seek medical care with a doctor or the emergency room. This will allow medical professionals to create documentation detailing your abuse that can later be used to hold responsible parties accountable.

Contact Us

After alerting the authorities and getting to a safe place, reach out to our attorneys at Cochran Douglas so we can get started on your case. We can let you know what we’ll need to strengthen your claim and inform you of resources that can help you regain control of your life.

“I am so thankful.”

1

dvmsuz

Tacoma, WA

2024

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I did not know what to expect and I was extremely anxious about the unknown. I feel so fortunate to have found Cochran Douglas law firm. Loren and Erin treated me with such kindness and did an amazing job on my case. Their communication was excellent throughout the process. Their advice was always appreciated. Their hard work on my behalf paid off resulting in a very fair settlement. I am so thankful I had Cochran Douglas on my side.

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Angela

Tacoma, WA

2024

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I felt like my personal interests were paramount. Erin (paralegal) really made sure that I was informed at every step and kept me up to date on all the progress in my case. I always felt like my case was important to the firm and it mattered. I definitely feel like this firm worked tirelessly for me and absolutely secured as much of a settlement as possible. I couldn’t be happier! Thank you!

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Protect Children in the System Your Story Can Help

Sharing your story and pursuing legal action can help protect children in the foster care system now and in the future. When abusers are held accountable, children will be placed with better foster parents in safer environments.

We know it can be difficult to relive the events that occurred while you were in the system, so we will do everything we can to make sure you feel comfortable and have what you need to move forward. Your case can then serve as a reminder to DSHS and foster parents that they will be held accountable for abuse and negligence.

“If you are looking for attorneys that are sharp, care, and kind you are looking in the right place. Cochran Douglas office really cares about you and your case. They get back to you right away via email, phone call, they are so professional. They made me feel heard, understood. Highly recommend. 10/10.” -Natalie, 5-Star Google Review

Foster Care Abuse FAQ

What is considered abuse?

Abuse can be physical, emotional, or sexual in nature. Physical abuse could involve hitting, kicking, burning, or causing other bodily harm. Emotional abuse involves verbal abuse, rejection, or humiliation. Sexual abuse is any form of sexual contact with a minor. Neglect, the failure to provide a child with food, shelter, clothing, medical care, or supervision, is also a form of abuse.

What are some signs of abuse and neglect?

Signs of abuse and neglect include unexplained injuries, changing explanations for injuries, injuries that are easily avoidable, poor hygiene, withdrawn behavior, aggressive behavior, fear, poor grades, substance abuse, knowledge of sexual acts that’s inappropriate for their age, and unaddressed medical needs. If you’re an adult in a position to help, call 1-866-ENDHARM, the DSHS 24-hour hotline that will connect you to the appropriate local office for reporting abuse or neglect.

What are the long-term effects of child abuse and neglect?

Many survivors of child abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect experience post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, difficulties with self-esteem, and substance abuse as adults. Compensation our attorneys secure on your behalf can go toward programs that help you mitigate these effects.

I wasn’t in foster care but was abused as a child. What can I do?

In addition to clients who were abused in foster care, Cochran Douglas accepts clients who were abused in church, school, Boy Scouts, the YMCA, and other youth organizations. If you were abused, reach out to our team so we can explore the next steps to get your life back on track and hold abusive parties accountable.

Have Another Question?

“They went above and beyond.”

1

Alexander

Tacoma, WA

2024

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I can confidently say that they exceeded my expectations in every way. From the moment I reached out for legal assistance, their team demonstrated unparalleled professionalism, expertise, and a support. I felt heard, guided, and well taken care of while working with their awesome team. One aspect that stood out to me was their excellent communication. The team at Cochran Douglas kept me informed at every stage.

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Daron

Tacoma, WA

2023

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This is a first-class law firm. They went above and beyond to settle my case, and greatly exceeded my expectations. They are genuine, kind, and compassionate. Cochran Douglas has an amazing staff that will keep you informed through the process and work to ease the anxiety surrounding your case. These are the people you want on your side!

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Cochran Douglas PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYS

Our personal injury attorneys have collected numerous honors and belong to noted professional organizations, ensuring they stay current with the ever-changing legal landscape. Among our honors and professional affiliations:

  • WSAJ: Washington State Association for Justice
  • WSBA: Washington State Bar Association
  • KCBA: King County Bar Association
  • TPCBA: Tacoma Pierce County Bar Association
  • Super Lawyers
  • Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum

Request a free consultation with our practice by contacting us online or by calling (253) 472-7777. We can meet at a location and time convenient for you, including nights and weekends.

 

Contact Us Today

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