March 3, 2022

Get to Know Pacifica – Zach Pekelis

This week in Pacifica’s “Get to Know” series, we are highlighting partner Zach Pekelis. Zach was elected to the partnership in January, 2022. As a former DOJ trial lawyer, Zach’s practice focuses on public entity representation, political law, complex commercial disputes, and appellate advocacy.

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

I love being a generalist litigator because it provides constant opportunities to explore new legal issues and factual subject matter. It’s like professional career-hopping: in one case I’ll delve into public health and epidemiology; in another I’ll become an expert in forest management; and in the next I’ll go down the rabbit hole on firearms and gun violence prevention policy. For someone with varied interests, a great curiosity about the world, and a passion for writing and oral argument, this is the perfect job for me.

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

Pacifica provides a unique—perhaps unparalleled—opportunity to represent both public and private clients in the Pacific Northwest with like-minded lawyers truly committed to excellence in our advocacy and dedicated to community stewardship.

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

I serve on the Seattle Ethics & Elections Commission, the Northwest Justice Project board of directors, and the Washington Bus board of directors.

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

I play tennis with my fiancée, practice yoga, and play sax and piano.

What is something others might find surprising about you?

I recently changed my last name from Jones to Pekelis. My late mother had always prodded me to make Pekelis my last name (instead of my middle name), so I finally did so to honor and feel connected to her two years after she passed away.