Battle of the Barristers 2025: A Knockout Success!
October 6, 2025
Seattle King County REALTORS® once again delivered one of the best legal education events of the year with the Battle of the Barristers, held on October 1 at the Meydenbauer Center in Bellevue. Nearly 600 REALTORS® packed the venue for a morning of lively legal debate, sharp insights, and a few good-natured jabs among Washington’s top real estate attorneys.
This year’s panel featured Mike Spence, Annie Fitzsimmons, Andy Mathews, Erin Varriano, and David Daniel, who stepped in last-minute for Lars Neste. Together, they tackled a series of fictional—but highly plausible—real estate scenarios, dissecting the legal liabilities and ethical dilemmas that brokers may face in the field. From unchecked sewers to ADU confusion, the attorneys didn’t hold back in their analysis—or their disagreements.
Moderated by Mike Spence, the event offered 3 clock hours of continuing education and gave attendees the chance to submit questions directly to the panel. The format encouraged both learning and laughter, making complex legal topics accessible and engaging.
Beyond the education, the event also served a meaningful purpose: it raised funds for the Seattle King County First Citizen Scholarship Foundation, which supports REALTORS® and their families in pursuing higher education. This year’s Battle of the Barristers helped generate over $30,000 for the foundation (pending final accounting).
With sold-out attendance, dynamic legal discourse, and a strong philanthropic impact, Battle of the Barristers 2025 was a benchmark event. Congratulations to all who made it happen—and to the REALTORS® who continue to raise the bar for professionalism and community engagement.
