Commercial landlords in Washington often lose lease disputes not because of bad faith or negligence, but because one poorly worded clause in their lease hands the tenant a legal advantage. Washington courts apply the ambiguity doctrine against the drafter, which is almost always the landlord. The five provisions that create the most risk are default notice language, maintenance allocation, permitted use definitions, assignment approval requirements, and holdover terms. Accepting rent from a defaulting tenant, failing to document agreements in writing, and relying on a lease that has never been reviewed by an attorney are the most common mistakes that turn manageable disputes into expensive litigation. A lease review before a dispute develops is the most cost-effective step a commercial landlord can take, and it is far less expensive than King County Superior Court.
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Testimonials
I have worked with Bryn on projects at Tree Top Inc. and I found Bryn to be detailed and professional in his approach to legal counsel. Bryn’s willingness to understand the business needs, and subsequently assuring those business needs are met in the intent and spirit of all contracts and agreements, is invaluable.
Joel Y.
Bryn Peterson is a knowledgeable and balanced corporate attorney with a wide-range of experience from trademarking to lease and trade negotiations. I had the pleasure of working with Bryn on almost a daily basis when he worked for Tree Top. Because our offices were next door to each other I saw and heard him in action interacting with dozens of people daily on all kinds of issues. In my role as Corporate Communications Director I also worked directly with Bryn and sought his expertise on many occasions related to food safety regulations, consumer concerns, vendor agreements and personal services contracts. Bryn was thorough in his review, thoughtful in his guidance, and diligent about serving the best interest of the company. I am confident Bryn will serve his clients well and deliver outstanding service.
Sharon M.
I enjoy working with Bryn. He is great at picking up the legal details that I miss when we are putting contracts together. He is thorough and asks great questions. His legal knowledge is excellent and he is often able to provide a challenge that leads to a better result.
Ian D.
Personable and professional at all times, under all circumstances. Demonstrates a “bias for action, clarity, and consistency” through utilization of excellent collaboration and listening skills.
Joe B.
I had the pleasure and privilege to work with Bryn Peterson for over two years at Tree Top, Inc. During that time, I worked with Bryn on several company issues and always found his work to be professional and well done. Bryn demonstrated his legal experience and knowledge on many levels throughout the organization, and always had the best interests of the company in mind.
Scott T.
Bryn’s work is exemplary. Well thought through, thorough, and balanced. Bryn is very good as weighing the risks involved against the issue being reviewed. He’s an excellent advisor because he gives you the good, the bad and the ugly of each issue and helps you figure out the best route to take.
Ned R.