Kurt Barker
Professional Experience
Kurt Barker joined the Employment Law and Litigation departments at Karnopp Petersen in early 2008. Prior to moving to Bend, Kurt practiced labor and employment law with Stoel Rives LLP in Portland, Oregon where he focused his practice in employment litigation and counseling employers in all aspects of employment related issues. As the current Chair of Karnopp Petersen's employment law department, Kurt’s practice continues to emphasize the defense and counsel of clients in employment matters concerning discrimination, harassment, wage and hour, tort, non-compete enforcement and trade secret obligations. He also represents clients in a variety of business and other litigation.
Oregon Super Lawyers recently named Kurt a "Rising Star" in Employment Litigation: Defense for the second consecutive year. The selection process identifies no more than 2.5 percent of the lawyers in the state.
Prior to his career in law, Kurt served as a campaign aide to U.S. Senator Ron Wyden as well as a legislative aide to Oregon Secretary of State Phil Keisling.
Professional & Community Activities
Kurt serves on the board of the Human Resources Association of Central Oregon (HRACO). He is a member of the Oregon Association of Defense Counsel, the Deschutes County Bar Association, the Federal Bar Association, and the Society of Human Resources Management. He also serves as a leader for his son's Cub Scout Den.
Education
Stanford Law School, J.D., with distinction (2001)
University of Oregon Honors College, B.A., cum laude, Mathematics (1996)
Admitted to Practice
Oregon
Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals