In what area of law do you practice and why did you choose this?
I practice in our business/corporate, mergers and acquisitions, banking, real estate and homeowner association practice areas. I chose these areas because I like working with business owners, bankers, owners of real estate and property managers/boards of directors. Prior to practicing law, I worked as loan officer and learned about lending money. In my early years of practicing, I began representing homeowner associations and learned about their issues and general real estate matters.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
Growing up, I wanted to become a business person as I saw the business owner as a role model.
When did you decide you wanted to be a lawyer?
After college, I decided to go to law school to further my education. In law school, I fell in “love” with the law and knew that my calling was to help people with their legal issues.
What would you be doing if you weren’t a lawyer?
If I was not a lawyer, I would have tried to start a different type of business. As a law firm founder and partner, I have become a business owner, too. So, I get to combine my love of the law with being in a business where I can provide value to other businesses and their owners. As a fellow business owner, I take a practical approach to solving my client’s legal issues and problems.
Tell us about a mentor who made an impact on your career.
I started my law practice working for James Atkinson, who taught me a lot about the law and how to efficiently and effectively solve legal problems. Jim preached the benefits of doing the right thing in all circumstances in order to provide maximum value to our clients.
What do you like best about practicing law at H&J?
H&J has a great team of lawyers and staff. Everyone is committed to doing their best to make a difference for our clients. I love working with my colleagues as part of a team that solves our clients issues and problems.
What is the best career advice you have received?
Be honest. As a lawyer, this is extremely important. Clients want a truthful assessment of their issue or problem. The wrong analysis can lead to serious consequences.
What is an item on your bucket list?
I want to play golf at Augusta National Golf Club, the host site of The Masters Golf Tournament. I have watched the tournament all my life and it would be a huge honor to play the golf course.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
I love the Caribbean Islands. The weather is always perfect and each island has unique and interesting history and great beaches.
What is your favorite Minnesota Lake?
Lake Minnetonka, of course. It has great bars and restaurants and great boat and people watching.
What is your favorite Twin Cities restaurant?
Manny’s.
When you are not working, what would people find you doing?
Playing golf.
What is your favorite part of practicing law?
Helping people.
What advice would you give to the young version of yourself who is just entering law school?
Study hard and get good grades…it will increase your opportunities.
If you have an out-of-town visitor, what are the “must see/do” things in the Twin Cities?
Lake Minnetonka.
The Minnesota State Fair (if it is during the Fair).
Dinner on a lake patio.
