November 9, 2021

Get to Know Pacifica – Jessica Skelton

This week in Pacifica’s “Get to Know” series, we are highlighting Jessica Skelton. Jessica is a partner and represents public and private clients in both trial and appellate litigation and in alternative dispute resolution proceedings.

Why did you choose your area of practice and what do you like most about it?

I have always enjoyed writing, particularly when it involves strategy and persuasion.  I also developed a love of appellate advocacy when I clerked at the Washington Supreme Court after law school.  My litigation practice at Pacifica allows me to work on complex legal issues, to generate persuasive legal briefing, and to argue before appellate courts.  I also really enjoy working with and advising client teams, particularly on public infrastructure projects.

Why did you choose to practice law at Pacifica Law Group?

I love the work, clients, and people at Pacifica.  My colleagues and I share a commitment to providing the highest quality legal work and I am proud of the excellent reputation Pacifica has earned with our clients and within the larger legal community.  I also appreciate that Pacifica and its lawyers are committed to supporting the community in which we all live and work, whether it be through our legal work, pro bono commitments, or public service.

What Kinds of Volunteer, philanthropic, or community events are important to you?

I am on the Program Committee for Treehouse, a nonprofit serving young people in foster care in Washington.  The Program Committee supports Treehouse’s programs, which include education advocacy, graduation support, and helping to meet needs for clothing, supplies, and enrichment programs.  Treehouse has set a goal that by 2027, 90% of young people who have experienced foster care across Washington will graduate high school, with support and a plan to transition to independence.  I am proud of the work Treehouse is doing to support young people in foster care in our community.

What hobbies and activities do you participate in outside of work?

I love baking, but I try not to do it very often, because I also love eating baked goods.  I also enjoy skiing, biking, and playing on my recreational volleyball team.

What is something others might find surprising about you?

I grew up in the city, but I’m a fan of country music, particularly 80s country.  But I also enjoy other music and my husband plays guitar in an indie-pop band called Cozy Slippers.

What is your favorite past adventure?

When I was younger, I participated in a trip to Alaska and the Yukon where we hiked the Chilkoot Trail, canoed 200 miles of the Yukon River, and biked approximately 1,000 miles of the Alaska Highway from Whitehorse in the Yukon to Fairbanks, Alaska.