Describe your career trajectory.
I started my career in St. Louis and spent ten years as a litigator focused on product liability cases, although I handled everything from employment litigation to medical malpractice. In 2017, my family relocated and I joined our Jefferson City office. I had always been very involved in the nonprofit community, and I realized there was a niche market for something I was passionate about. After focusing on litigation for several years, and with the firm’s full support, I launched our Nonprofit Organizations & Religious Institutions team, which has grown to over 40 legal attorneys and legal professionals. I now spend about half of my time in a traditional litigation role and the other half working with tax-exempt organizations, mainly churches and other religious organizations. An average day is split between trial preparation for some of the firm’s largest manufacturing clients and fielding calls from a number of church leaders. It’s a great mix and the firm has supported me in both aspects of my practice.
Is there a matter or case you worked on that you found particularly rewarding?
It’s impossible to pick a single matter, but my work for the United Methodist Church has been rewarding from both a professional and a personal standpoint. It can also be extremely difficult. I have represented denominational entities in complex litigation involving churches that sought to leave the denomination, and I have been proud to secure some significant wins in court and successful outcomes through mediation. Working on projects that will define the denomination going forward and impact hundreds of churches is both intimidating and rewarding. But I also handle a few projects each month that help our churches strengthen their ministries. I’m in a unique position to support creative new ministries that make a difference in our communities by finding ways to “get to yes” while also protecting our clergy, laity, and resources. Celebrating a new church opening its doors or a community outreach project coming to life and knowing I played a small part in that process is always emotional.
How has Husch Blackwell supported you in achieving work/life balance?
My spouse Chelsey is an ordained elder in the United Methodist church, which is an itinerant ministry. Prior to her ordination, I alerted my fellow partners about the itinerant system and the impact it would have on my career with the firm. The firm provided wonderful support for both of our careers and helped to ensure my practice didn’t skip a beat when I moved 100 miles to the Jefferson City office. Everyone made the process so easy – from the attorneys to firm administration.
What is your advice for a new hire?
Get outside of your comfort zone. Your first couple years at the firm provides an opportunity to experience different areas of the law, develop relationships with attorneys who practice in those areas and find your place at the firm. If you seek a wide range of experiences, you will become a better lawyer by learning more ways to assist your clients. And that doesn’t just go for new hires. I completely changed the focus of my practice years after becoming partner, and it was the best decision I’ve ever made.