Introduction

Sam is a litigator who represents a broad range of clients in complex and high-stakes litigation.

Samantha Burke has assisted clients in commercial disputes, constitutional and governmental litigation, water rights cases, mining litigation, election law cases, extensive business litigation concerning the COVID-19 pandemic, and appeals. 

Sam handles all aspects of the litigation process and has significant experience and success in motion writing. She has worked with Ashurst Perkins Coie teams in successfully representing a major food company, major telecommunication company, secondary education institution, and elected officials, among others. 

Before joining Ashurst Perkins Coie, Sam served as a clerk for the Honorable Judge John J. Tuchi at the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona. 

Education & credentials

  • Arizona State University, Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law, J.D., magna cum laude, Order of the Coif, Chair of Articles Committee, Arizona State Law Journal, 2019
  • University of California, Los Angeles, B.S., Environmental Science, 2013
  • Arizona
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit
  • U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona
  • Judicial Extern for the Hon. Jon W. Thompson, Arizona Court of Appeals, 2018
  • Perkins Coie, Phoenix, AZ, Summer Associate, 2018
  • Judicial Extern for the Hon. John J. Tuchi, U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona, 2017
  • Hon. John J. TuchiU.S. District Court for the District of Arizona

Professional recognition

  • Recognized by Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch for Commercial Litigation Law, 2023-2026

  • Listed as one of "50 Emerging Leaders in Law" by Az Business, 2026

  • Listed as a "Southwest Rising Star" by Super Lawyers, 2025