HCMP is proud to have provided pro bono legal services to the plaintiffs in State of Washington v. Arlene’s Flowers. Yesterday, in a historically significant ruling, the court found the florist who refused to provide flowers to a gay couple for their wedding had violated state anti-discrimination and consumer protection laws. HCMP Litigation practice chair Mike Scott, and attorneys Jake Ewart, Amit Ranade, Kurt Kruckeberg, Andy Murphy and Michael Edwards have spent hundreds of hours working on the case, with Scott and Ewart front and center with oral arguments. Said Scott, “While the case has required a significant firm investment, HCMP deeply values diversity and equality, and was committed to working hard to ensure a victory. This case has resonated so soundly throughout the entire firm, including staff, that we couldn’t be more proud of the work we’ve done, and we’re thrilled with yesterday’s ruling.”
Scott also indicated he believes that Arlene’s Flowers will appeal the ruling, potentially all the way to the Washington Supreme Court, and said, “HCMP is committed to continuing the fight all the way on a pro bono basis.”