Calista Bechtold

Attorney

• Seattle University School of Law – J.D.
• University of Washington – B.A.

Calista Bechtold joined the legal profession with a deep-seated commitment to protecting the rights and best interests of individuals navigating the complexities of the justice system. Having passed the July 2025 Bar Exam, she brings a fresh, dedicated perspective to her advocacy, focusing on the intersections of public defense and immigration law.
Calista’s legal journey is defined by her hands-on approach to client service. As a Rule-9 Public Defender, she managed high-volume caseloads while providing personalized courtroom advocacy from arraignments through pre-trial hearings. She recognized early on that a legal issue does not exist in a vacuum; it often carries significant consequences for a person’s status and future in this country. To address this, she collaborated closely with immigration experts and social workers to ensure her clients received holistic representation that considered their lives beyond the courtroom.

This drive to serve began during her time at the University of Washington and continued through law school at Seattle University, where she contributed to the International Human Rights Clinic and the NAACP Legal Redress Committee. Whether she was researching federal grants for specialty diagnostics or assisting local professionals in refining their legal writing, Calista has always been focused on clarity, efficiency, and accountability

At the heart of Calista’s practice is the belief that every client deserves a steadfast advocate who can navigate the system’s hurdles with both skill and empathy. She is dedicated to staying at the forefront of legal developments, regularly attending continuing legal education to ensure her defense strategies remain sharp and effective

A true resident of the Pacific Northwest, Calista finds balance away from the law by embracing the region’s natural beauty. When she isn’t advocating for her clients, you can find her on the soccer field, hiking or rock climbing in the mountains, or practicing yoga.

Volunteer & Community Work

• Community Volunteer, Executive Board Secretary, and Social Media Coordinator for Friend to Friend America
• Researcher for NAACP Legal Redress Committee
• International Human Rights Clinic participant

Publications & Presentations

• Contributing writer for Fleeing Terror in Southern Mexico, Kino Institute