Christopher M. Henderson

Washington

Brothers Henderson Durkin, P.S.
936 N 34th Street
Suite 200
Seattle, WA 98103

Tel: 206-957-7261

Email: ChrisH@bhdlaw.com
Web: www.bhdlaw.com

Professional Biography

Chris Henderson brings a strong and diverse background in legal practice and academic work in disability rights, business and technology to his role as a partner at Brothers Henderson Durkin, P.S. Chris’s practice includes special education, preparing estate planning and end-of-life documents; advising beneficiaries, professional fiduciaries and attorneys regarding settlements and special needs trusts; advising individuals regarding guardianship, state and federal benefits, and representing clients in related disputes or litigation.

Prior to joining BHD, Chris focused on academic work in disability rights, and professional work in business and technology with substantial experience in using and developing technology to address the needs of those with disabilities.Chris previously worked at a global law firm’s Seattle office, serving emerging technology businesses as a corporate associate. During this time, he acted as outside general counsel to a variety of privately held businesses, regularly guiding his clients in transactions valued at tens of millions of dollars.

As a law student, Chris furthered his interest in disability and elder law through his selection as symposium editor for the Washington Law Review. In that capacity, he worked closely with late professor and former Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Commissioner Paul Miller to bring together internationally renowned disability law scholars to study the rights of the disabled on a global scale. The symposium culminated in an edition of the Washington Law Review edited by Chris, Framing Legal and Human Rights Strategies for Change: A Case Study of Disability Rights in Asia 83 Wash. Law. Rev. 435 (2008).

Education:

  • University of Washington School of Law, J.D., 2008
  • Stanford University, B.S., Symbolic Systems, 2000

Brothers Henderson Durkin, P.S. represents parents and legal guardians of children with special needs in a wide range of special education matters, with a practice built on more than 40 years of experience advocating for students’ rights. The firm assists families in addressing disputes with school districts over appropriate educational programs and access to necessary services and supports, working collaboratively with educational teams where possible and pursuing formal action when required.

The firm guides clients through every stage of the special education dispute resolution process, including attendance at Individualized Education Plan (IEP) conferences, mediation, due process hearings, and civil actions in federal court. Its lawyers are experienced in navigating complex legal and procedural frameworks to help secure appropriate outcomes for children and their families.

Recognizing that special education issues often intersect with broader legal needs, Brothers Henderson Durkin also advises on related matters such as guardianship, estate planning, and trust administration. The firm’s integrated approach allows it to build long-term relationships with clients, providing ongoing support across all aspects of disability law.

Brothers Henderson Durkin, P.S. has, for more than 40 years, established a reputation as a leading elder and disability law firm in Washington State. The firm’s partners—Josh Brothers, Chris Henderson, and Katrina Durkin—have dedicated their careers to serving clients in the disability and aging communities, with a practice centered on delivering high-quality, client-focused legal services.

The firm offers a comprehensive range of services, working closely with clients, their families, and related professionals. Its capabilities include disability law matters such as special education, guardianships, and special needs trusts; elder law spanning long-term care planning through end-of-life issues; estate planning from simple wills to complex trusts, powers of attorney, and health care directives; probate and estate administration; as well as litigation, settlement planning, and recovery management.

Brothers Henderson Durkin recognizes that these legal needs often evolve and overlap throughout a client’s life. Families may begin with special education and benefits planning, transition to guardianship arrangements as a child reaches adulthood, and later address long-term planning and succession of responsibility. The firm takes a long-term, relationship-driven approach, supporting clients through each stage with continuity and a deep understanding of their ongoing legal needs.

“Chris Henderson is a highly regarded attorney known for his thoughtful and innovative approach to disability and special education law. Clients value his ability to deliver practical, compassionate guidance on complex matters, while peers highlight his unique combination of legal, technological, and academic expertise.”
The Education Lawyers, 2026