John R. Layman

Since joining Layman Law Firm, PLLP, as a partner in 1983, John R. Layman has devoted his practice to complex personal injury litigation in Spokane, Washington. His focus on traumatic brain injuries, spinal trauma and aquatic-related incidents has earned him wide acclaim among both clients and medical professionals. A seasoned trial advocate, he has guided numerous catastrophic injury claims through vigorous courtroom advocacy, obtaining settlements and verdicts in the multimillion‐dollar range.

A distinguished academic record underpins Mr. Layman's legal acumen. He graduated with honors from Washington State University in 1980 and completed his J.D., again with honors, at Gonzaga University School of Law in 1983. Licensed to practice in all Washington state courts and across the federal courts in the region, he brings careful legal reasoning and a seasoned grasp of complex medical matters. His admissions also include the U.S. District Courts for the Eastern and Western Districts of Washington, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit.

Beyond his courtroom successes, Mr. Layman is a sought-after lecturer on head injury litigation, regularly presenting before both local bar associations and national trial lawyer gatherings. He has earned enduring respect within the medical community for his collaborative approach to adept testimony and his unwavering advocacy for brain injury victims.

Committed to community service, Mr. Layman currently sits on the board of directors of Banner Bank and serves as its vice chairman. He also presides as president of the Foundation Board for Inland Northwest Hospital Services and previously chaired the Board of Directors for St. Luke’s Rehabilitation Advisory Council. Within the Washington State Brain Injury Association, he has fulfilled roles as both board member and past executive director of the local chapter, further demonstrating his dedication to advancing care and support for individuals affected by neurological trauma.

Recognized by the American Trial Lawyers Association as one of Washington’s Top 100 Trial Lawyers, Mr. Layman exemplifies the combination of legal skill, medical insight and community leadership that defines exceptional personal injury representation. Additionally, he is Distinguished* peer-review rated through Martindale-Hubbell.

*AV®, AV Preeminent®, Martindale-Hubbell Distinguished and Martindale-Hubbell Notable are certification marks used under license in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards and policies. Martindale-Hubbell® is the facilitator of a peer-review rating process. Ratings reflect the anonymous opinions of members of the bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Ratings™ fall into two categories – legal ability and general ethical standards.