DARBY N. DUCOMB
(206) 455-1928
PRACTICE AREAS
Real Estate/Land Use
Mediation/Alternative Dispute Resolution
Strategic Advice & Counsel
Racial Equity
EDUCATION
University of Oregon School of Law, J.D., 1994
Indiana University, B.A., 1990
University of Washington School of Law Professional
Mediation Skills Program, 2009
Pepperdine University School of Law,
Mediating the Litigated Case, 2018
PRIOR EXPERIENCE
City of Seattle, Office of the City Attorney, 1999-2017
Washington Appellate Project, 1994-1996
Darby is an accomplished multi-sector lawyer with experience advising governmental, non-profit, and for-profit clients, on a range of issues. Today her work focuses on advising clients on real estate and land use issues, serving as a mediator, and advising clients on racial equity issues.
Real Estate and Land Use
Darby represents and advises clients on a wide range of real estate and land use matters, including:
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Representing several downtown commercial and residential property owners challenging aspects of the City of Seattle's Waterfront Local Improvement District.
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Assisting commercial property owners with due diligence, rezones, and permitting/entitlement issues.
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Advising affordable housing projects, including the Seattle Girls School site and First A.M.E. Housing Association’s Bryant Manor.
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Working on environmental protection matters, including street tree conflicts, seaplane use o Lake Union, bioswales, and the expanded Terry Pettus Park.
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Advising economic development projects, including Handy Andy, Seattle Nissan, and Dogwood Play Park.
Mediation
Darby is an experienced mediator, settlement advocate, consultant, and coach. She co-mediates with Emerald City Mediation.
Racial Equity
Darby provides training, counseling, and policy analysis for legal professionals, local governments, and police agencies.
Pro Bono Work
In response to Covid-19, Darby volunteers for small commercial landlords and tenants in the Central District and Southeast Seattle neighborhoods, assisting clients in resolving commercial lease disputes.