About Marshall & Saunders
Marshall & Saunders is a leading criminal defense firm based in Seattle, Washington. We specialize in defending clients accused of sex crimes, child abuse, domestic violence, and similar misconduct. We believe that no one should be defined solely by what they’re accused of doing. That’s why our team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to providing the highest quality legal representation and protecting your rights.
Your Trusted Defenders: Marshall & Saunders
Marshall & Saunders, formerly known as the Marshall Defense Firm, was founded by David S. Marshall, a renowned criminal defense attorney with over 30 years of experience. David has earned a reputation as one of the most skilled and respected defenders of clients accused of sex crimes, child abuse, and other serious offenses.
In 2020, David was joined by Joshua Saunders, an accomplished attorney with a diverse background in law, anthropology, and social justice. Together, David and Josh lead a team of dedicated attorneys who work collaboratively for their clients, taking a compassionate and humanistic approach to defending the accused.
Meet Our Team
.webp)
David S. Marshall
PartnerDavid S. Marshall has over 30 years of experience providing top-notch defense for clients accused of child abuse, sexual assault, and other serious offenses. Known for his meticulous preparation and successful track record, David is a frequent speaker and writer on sexual assault defense.
Bar Admissions
- Washington State
- United States District Courts (Western and Eastern Districts of Washington, District of Columbia)
- United States Courts of Appeals (Ninth Circuit, District of Columbia Circuit)
- Supreme Court of the United States
Education
- University of California at Berkeley, Boalt Hall School of Law, J.D.
- Cornell University, B.A. in Government
.webp)
Joshua R. Saunders
PartnerJoshua R. Saunders brings a wealth of experience from his time as a public defender in New York and Washington State. With a background in anthropology and social justice, Joshua has handled over five thousand criminal cases and achieved numerous acquittals. He founded the Brooklyn Community Bail Fund and has been an advocate for bail reform. Joshua's dedication to defending the accused is driven by his deep understanding of the impact of criminal accusations.
Bar Admissions
- Washington State
- United States District Court for the Western District of Washington
Education
- New York University School of Law, New York, New York
- University of Texas, Austin, Texas
- Macalester College, St. Paul, Minnesota
Sarra Marie
LawyerSarra Marie brings passion and expertise to Marshall & Saunders, focusing on criminal defense. With 8 years as a public defender, she has represented clients facing charges from misdemeanors to aggravated murder and sex offenses. A Seattle native and UW graduate, Sarra vigorously defends clients facing challenging accusations, providing skilled representation and genuine compassion.
Bar Admission
- Washington State
Education
- J.D., University of Wisconsin
- B.A., University of Washington, Sociology; Law, Society and Social Policy
James Herr
LawyerJames Herr brings diverse legal experience to Marshall & Saunders, including work as a public defender, private criminal defense attorney, and civil litigator. He has successfully argued cases before the Washington Supreme Court and tried numerous jury cases. James's background includes internships with a federal judge and federal public defenders, giving him a comprehensive understanding of the legal system.
Bar Admissions
- Washington State
- United States District Courts for the Western and Eastern Districts of Washington
- Tulalip Tribal Court (inactive)
Education
- J.D. cum laude, University of Michigan
- B.A., History and Anthropology, University of Wyoming
Kristina L. Selset
LawyerKristina L. Selset has 28 years of experience defending clients and has won numerous acquittals. An honors graduate from the University of Washington, Kristina excels in building strong attorney-client relationships and crafting compelling legal arguments. She has been recognized as a "Rising Star" by Washington Law & Politics Magazine and has served as a Governor of the Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.
Bar Admissions
- Washington State
- U.S. District Court, Western District of Washington
Education
- University of Washington School of Law, J.D.
- University of Washington, Bachelor of Arts, English
Emily Gause
LawyerEmily M. Gause is known for her aggressive defense and impressive results in serious cases. Recognized as a Super Lawyer, Emily has a passion for defending juveniles and adults facing felony charges. She has argued cases in the Washington State Supreme Court and the United States Supreme Court. Emily's commitment to justice and her innovative defense strategies have earned her numerous accolades, including the Anthony Savage Award from the Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.
Bar Admissions
- Washington State
- United States District Courts for the Western and Eastern Districts of Washington
Education
- Seattle University School of Law — J.D.
- Washington State University — B.A. Criminal Justice
- Washington State University — B.A. Sociology
Sam Sommerman
LawyerSam Sommerman has over a decade of experience defending the accused, starting at the Cook County Public Defender's Office in Chicago before moving to the Pacific Northwest. At the Snohomish County Public Defender Association, she handled cases from misdemeanors to felony charges, including sex offenses. Since 2019, Sam has been in private criminal defense practice, securing not-guilty verdicts in cases ranging from domestic violence to homicide. She brings compassion, dedication, and extensive experience to every case, regardless of its severity.
Bar Admissions
- Washington State
- United States District Courts for the Western and Eastern Districts of Washington
- Tulalip Tribal Court (inactive)
Education
- J.D. cum laude, University of Michigan
- B.A., History and Anthropology, University of Wyoming
Glenn MacGilvra
LawyerGlenn MacGilvra is the skilled researcher behind the scenes at Marshall & Saunders. With a background in history and law from Princeton University and UC Berkeley, Glenn excels in legal research and writing. His work has opened new paths for clients, and he has taught legal research and writing at Boalt Hall.
Bar Admissions
- Washington State
- California
Education
- University of California at Berkeley, Boalt Hall School of Law, J.D.
- Princeton University, Bachelor of Arts, History
Tracey McDonald
ParalegalLearn More About TraceyTracey McDonald combines meticulous attention to detail with deep empathy, making her an invaluable asset to the team. With a degree from an ABA-approved paralegal program, Tracey ensures the smooth operation of the office and supports the attorneys in providing top-quality defense for clients.
Proven Results in High-Stakes Criminal Cases
Our client-centered approach, combined with our attorneys' extensive experience and skill in the courtroom, has enabled us to achieve numerous victories for our clients.
We have won acquittals, secured dismissals, and obtained favorable plea bargains for clients accused of a wide range of offenses, including:
- Sexual assault and rape
- Child molestation and abuse
- Domestic violence
- Internet sex crimes
- Prostitution and solicitation
- Failure to register as a sex offender
We also defend clients against physical child abuse accusations, including shaken baby syndrome, suspicious fractures, and other allegations. Our practice covers related civil matters and protection order cases in both state and federal courts. No matter the complexity of your case, we're dedicated to protecting your rights and future.
Strategic timing of our defense interview revealed the absence of abuse memories in the young boy's testimony, resulting in dismissal of both criminal and dependency cases.
A college student faced devastating accusations of molesting his mother's friend's son. Our cross-examination exposed how adult anxiety and suggestive questioning had created false beliefs in the child's mind.
When a father was accused because his child attended the same daycare where abuse allegedly occurred, we demonstrated how improper questioning techniques had manufactured false memories.
A father's visitation rights were threatened by assault allegations from his son. Our interviews revealed an increasingly unreliable narrative, leading to case dismissal before trial.
When a college relationship ended, a student faced escalating assault accusations. Our strategic defense navigated both campus proceedings and criminal court to protect his future.
A young nurse, caring for her foster son, confronted allegations of shaking baby syndrome. Expert medical testimony and character evidence proved these serious accusations were misdiagnosed medical conditions.
Through thorough investigation of the accuser's father, we revealed crucial context that led to case dismissal before trial.
A neighbor's life was upended by molestation accusations. Our analysis of the child's interview language patterns convinced a jury of his innocence in under an hour.
When a daycare operator faced molestation charges, a second trial vindicated them by showcasing decades of professional childcare excellence and unblemished service to hundreds of families.
An enlisted man's military career and freedom were threatened by allegations from his niece. We exposed how unintentional adult coaching had created detailed but false accusations.
A father faced historical abuse claims from his son. Investigation revealed how current relationships had reshaped old memories, creating accusations without factual foundation.
Using advanced interview techniques, we exposed how the daughter's accusations grew increasingly unreliable over time, leading to case dismissal.
A dedicated stepfather's freedom hung in balance when accused of abuse during nap times. We demonstrated how impossibly detailed "sleep memories" from a decade ago, plus affectionate family photos, proved these accusations false.
A 14-year-old's future hung in balance when accused of molesting a friend's sister. Through careful competency testing, we revealed critical flaws in the young accuser's testimony. Case dismissed before trial.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
We're here to listen, support, and fight for your rights. Contact us today for a confidential consultation and let us help you make informed decisions during this challenging time.
How Our Client-Centered Approach Leads to Success
At Marshall & Saunders, we understand that every client is unique and that generic legal strategies don’t work in complex criminal cases. That's why we focus on a client-specific approach, tailored to your individual situation, needs, and goals.
From the start, we:
- Listen to you
- Answer your questions
- Explain your options clearly
We know facing criminal charges can be overwhelming, so we provide support and guidance throughout the process.
Our attorneys work closely with you to develop a personalized defense strategy aimed at achieving the best possible outcome, whether that involves:
- Fighting for an acquittal at trial
- Negotiating a favorable plea bargain
- Advocating for alternative sentencing options
A Word from a Client We Acquitted
"When I was falsely accused of sexual assault, I thought my life was over. But the attorneys at Marshall & Saunders believed in me and fought tirelessly to clear my name. Their expertise, compassion, and dedication made all the difference. I cannot thank them enough."
Protecting Your Future:
Beyond the Courtroom
At Marshall & Saunders, our commitment to our clients extends beyond the courtroom. We understand that even an accusation of sexual misconduct or child abuse can have lasting consequences for your reputation, relationships, and future prospects.
That's why we help you navigate the challenges that may arise after your case is resolved. Whether you need assistance with employment or housing issues, advice on complying with sex offender registration requirements, or referrals to counseling and support services, we are here to help.
Our goal is not just to achieve the best possible legal outcome in your case, but to help you move forward with your life and put the stress and uncertainty of criminal charges behind you.
Serving Clients Throughout Washington State
Our mission to provide exceptional legal representation extends far beyond our Seattle headquarters. Our team of seasoned criminal defense attorneys serves clients throughout the state of Washington and the broader Pacific Northwest region, including but not limited to:
- King County
- Pierce County
- Snohomish County
- Kitsap County
- Spokane
- Tacoma
- Olympia
- Everett
- Vancouver, BC
Get the Skilled, Compassionate Representation You Deserve
If you or a loved one is facing serious criminal charges, time is of the essence. Don't wait to get the experienced legal representation you need. Contact Marshall & Saunders today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn how we can help safeguard your future.
901 Fifth Avenue, Suite 2800
Seattle, Washington 98164
You will receive a response from us within 1 - 2 business days.