Paul O. Hirose

Clients count on Paul O. Hirose for dependable, strategic leadership in assembling the right team of lawyers to help them achieve strong business and legal outcomes. He advises midsized businesses and multinational companies operating across complex distribution channels, including suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and service providers. Paul provides practical, business-focused counsel on operational issues, risk and litigation avoidance, IP, marketing and advertising, compliance, supply chain strategy, and growth initiatives. 

A former in-house lawyer and certified public accountant, Paul brings more than 20 years of experience helping clients address complex business and legal challenges. His approach draws on his prior in-house role with a major original equipment manufacturer, as well as his significant audit and compliance background. Clients turn to Paul for clear, actionable guidance on day-to-day business counseling, major transactions, complex disputes, regulatory and compliance issues, and distribution network strategy. 

Paul represents companies in federal and state courts and before administrative agencies. He also structures, drafts, and negotiates a wide range of commercial agreements, including distribution, supply, and licensing agreements. His product distribution experience includes helping clients establish, expand, refine, and wind down distribution networks in the automotive, food distribution, and technology industries in the United States and internationally. 

Paul maintains an active commitment to community service through his work with nonprofit organizations and his pro bono practice, including efforts focused on ending human trafficking. He also co-chairs Ashurst Perkins Coie’s Supply Chain Compliance & Corporate Social Responsibility practice.