Clayton Cook-Mowery

Lead Managing Attorney

Clayton Cook-Mowery was born and raised in Palouse, Washington. After high school, he attended the University of Idaho, where he developed an interest in criminal and constitutional law. After graduating in 2004, he promptly enrolled in the Michigan State University College of Law.

Clayton joined the Quiroga Law Office team in the spring of 2017, initially handling some bankruptcy cases and now focusing on immigration law. His goal is to learn everything possible about immigration law to best represent his clients.

LEARN HIS STORY

Who is Clayton?

A Firm Stand for Justice and Dignity

Since joining Quiroga Law Office, PLLC in 2017, Clayton Cook-Mowery has committed himself to defending immigrant rights. Now, as Lead Managing Attorney, he leads teams that handle many types of immigration cases. He especially focuses on consular processing and waivers.

A strong belief in fairness and equality under the law fueled his decision to enter immigration law. Clayton studies history. He notices that immigrant groups, such as the Irish, Italians, Chinese, and Japanese, have often faced blame.

They have also experienced detention and exclusion in U.S. history. His mission is clear: he aims to ensure that every immigrant receives dignity, fairness, and respect.

A Journey from Creativity to Legal Advocacy

Clayton’s academic path reflects both creativity and intellectual rigor. He studied Political Science and Dance at the University of Idaho. This mix shows his analytical mind and artistic spirit.

Later, he earned his Juris Doctor from Michigan State University. A desire to turn his ideals into action drove him. From a young age, he felt compelled to stand up for those without a voice.

Becoming a lawyer gave him the tools to protect the vulnerable, enforce justice, and shape a more equitable society. His interdisciplinary background adds depth to his advocacy, making him both strategic and empathetic.

Building Legal Expertise Across Fields

Before focusing on immigration, Clayton gained experience in other areas of law. From 2009 to 2016, he worked in bankruptcy law and foreclosure defense.

This helped him improve his legal skills and learn to support clients under pressure. A short internship with the Northwest Immigrants Rights Project taught him about immigration law. This field matched his values.

In 2017, he joined Quiroga Law Office and found his calling. Since then, he has worked on many cases.

He’s a consular processing and waivers immigration attorney. He has also taken on a leadership role. He helps guide other immigration attorneys and shape the firm’s legal strategy.

Finding Purpose at Quiroga Law Office

In 2017, Clayton was at a crossroads. After relocating from Western to Eastern Washington, he sought a new professional challenge. A high school friend encouraged him to apply to Quiroga Law Office, and the timing was perfect.

His background in bankruptcy law made him a great match, as the firm was still handling many such cases. His legal knowledge, combined with a strong work ethic, allowed him to integrate seamlessly. Over time, Clayton became a key person in the firm’s growth. He played a bigger role in protecting immigrants’ rights.

The Case That Shaped His Mission

Of the many cases Clayton has worked on, one stands out as especially meaningful. He worked with immigration attorney and CEO Héctor Quiroga.

Together, they helped a woman in her 60s. Immigration authorities denied her a US passport, even though she had a valid birth certificate. She was unknowingly registered in Mexico as well.

She worked on a military base. She was married to a veteran. Now, she might be undocumented, and that was scary.

Clayton and the team sued the government and won at trial, restoring her citizenship. Her only wish had been to go on a cruise with her daughter—a dream she finally fulfilled.

Legal Skills Beyond Immigration Law

Clayton’s curiosity and intellect have led him to contribute to fields beyond immigration. Soon after getting his J.D., he co-wrote a research article on dairy production. The article is called “Farm-Level Contracting for Production Process Attributes: An Analysis.” He worked on it with researcher Nicole J. Olynk and others.

This publication shows his skill in analyzing complex systems. It also highlights his ability to do important research across different fields.

His experience in both school and law shows his strong analytical skills. He can look at problems from different angles. These qualities help him in immigration advocacy.

A Human-Centered Approach to Law

For Clayton, law is about more than statutes and procedures—it’s about people. His compassion and drive stem from a belief that justice must extend beyond legal systems to how we treat one another.

“I want to work in this field to help people. I believe in showing compassion and ensuring justice. This means justice in the legal process and in how we treat each other in society.”

This mindset informs every decision he makes as an immigration attorney, mentor, and leader. He approaches each case with humanity, clarity, and care.

Dedication Beyond the Courtroom

The future of immigration law may be uncertain, but Clayton Cook-Mowery’s dedication remains untiring. For him, this work is more than just winning cases.

It’s about bringing peace of mind, reuniting families, and building stronger communities. He leads with integrity and purpose. He makes sure every client at Quiroga Law Office gets personalized and effective legal support.

As an immigration attorney in Tacoma, Clayton is a strong supporter of immigrants. He guides his team and stands with clients in court. He helps those seeking a better life in the United States. This is not just a career for him—it’s a mission rooted in justice and humanity.

CLAYTON: LEARNING, PERSEVERANCE, AND PASSION

Learn More About Clayton

Certifications

Bar License: Washington State Bar Association, January 2009
Federal Western District of Washington, 2010
Federal Eastern District of Washington, 2010

Experience

Quiroga Law Office, PLLC – Immigration Attorney, Lead Managing Attorney (2017 – Present)
Ark Law Group, Bellevue, WA – Staff Attorney (August 2015 – November 2015)
Cook Mowery Law Group, Bellevue, WA – Lead Attorney (December 2013 – August 2015)
Advantage Legal Group, Bellevue, WA – Associate Attorney (June 2011 – September 2013)
Phillips Webster, Renton, WA – Associate Attorney (February 2011 – June 2011)
Legal Helpers P.C., Seattle, WA – Associate Attorney (December 2009 – February 2011)
Northwest Immigrant Rights Project, Seattle, WA – Intern (February 2008 – October 2009)

Education

Juris Doctor – Gonzaga University School of Law, 2019
Bachelor of Science in Political Science, Criminal Justice Minor – Northwest Nazarene University, Nampa, ID, 2016