SEATTLE – Schroeter Goldmark & Bender (SGB) is proud to announce that attorney Elizabeth Hanley has been elected as an American Association for Justice (AAJ) Governor for the Washington State Association for Justice (WSAJ).

Hanley brings a strong foundation of state and national leadership to the role. Following her term as WSAJ president, she was elected secretary of the AAJ Council of Presidents in 2025. Her new role as Governor is the natural next chapter in a career dedicated to fighting for those who need a voice.

“Washington trial lawyers do powerful work on behalf of people who have been harmed or marginalized,” Hanley said. “As an elected AAJ Governor, I look forward to continuing to represent their voice on the national stage while helping shape the policies that protect civil justice for everyone.”

The AAJ Board of Governors is the association’s governing body, responsible for setting AAJ’s policies and approving its annual budget. The board includes representatives from each affiliated state trial lawyer organization, international jurisdictions, and various caucuses and groups within the association.

As an AAJ Governor, Hanley will represent Washington’s trial lawyers within AAJ leadership, working alongside colleagues from across the country to shape the direction of the association and advocate for the rights of individuals within the civil justice system.

“Throughout my career, I’ve benefited from the guidance and support of strong trial lawyer communities,” said Hanley. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to give back.”