BERTHA BARANKO FITZER, J.D., LL.M., PARTNER

Bertha specializes in complex medical malpractice litigation before trial and appellate courts. Bertha’ s experience as a former prosecutor, service on important bar committees and contributions to legal publications have honed her analytic skills. She and the other members of the Fox Ballard appellate team can provide second opinions rapidly and efficiently for complicated, high value cases. 


Phone: 206-207-4209


Bertha is equally comfortable before a jury or a panel of judges. She has successfully defended high value cases involving birth injuries, cardiac deaths, surgical mishaps, and misdiagnosis. Her early experience as a law clerk, focused training in jurisprudence at Harvard Law and years of trial and appellate experience make her uniquely qualified to usher even the most complex case to a successful conclusion. 

Education

  • Harvard Law School, LL.M.
  • University of Washington, J.D.
  • University of Washington, Double Honors in English & Philosophy

Honors & Activities

  • Past President, Hon. Robert J. Bryan American Inn of Court
  • Washington Law Review, Managing Editor
  • Phi Beta Kappa
  • Phi Eta Sigma Freshman Honor Society
  • Washington Pattern Jury Instruction Committee (2002-2011)
  • WSBA Disciplinary Hearing Officer (2005-2015)
  • Tacoma Pierce County Bar Association, Member
  • Hon. Robert J. Bryan American Inn of Court, Emeritus Member
  • Washington Defense Trial Lawyers, Member
  • Washington Health Care Risk Management Society, Member

Bar Admissions

  • Washington State Bar Association
  • United States Supreme Court
  • U.S. District Courts: U.S. District Court for Western District of Washington
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit