Why did you decide to become an attorney?
I always have been a problem solver and grew up fascinated by law and government. I work well with people. I enjoy helping others solve their problems. I enjoy being in court and advocating a position. I enjoy negotiating. I was always taught make a career out of that which you enjoy.
What experiences (work and personal) help you to be a better attorney?
Being a family relations law specialist and being a child of a divorced family has helped me gain perspective on my area of expertise. I have a tremendous work ethic. I grew up around the law and family law in particular, as my dad has been practicing family law for over forty years. We practice together and that makes me a better attorney. He is a terrific mentor and we trust each other and respect each other’s positions and opinions.
What made you choose your primary area of law?
I started my legal career as a corporate health care attorney. I quickly learned my strengths were being in the courtroom, and working more closely with people to help them solve their individual problems. I was then drawn to the family law practice because of the opportunity provided by my father and his firm. I quickly became entrenched in cases, read as much as I could in the field and began litigating my own cases. Within one year, I knew family relations and adoption law was the focus for me.
What makes your law firm unique?
We focus on Family Law and Adoptions and have a combined 75+ years experience in that practice area. We've developed a strong and diverse network of accountants, appraisers, business evaluators, psychologists, and other professionals to assist when needed in the preparation and presentation of our clients' cases. By carefully matching the needs of each client's case with the individual strengths of our attorneys and our professional resources, we assemble a team to work with each client in reaching his or her individual goals.
Describe your ideal client.
I have learned that each client and case is quite different. I think I have the unique ability to read people well and that helps the client and me work well together and understand each other. The family law client is confused, scared, and usually acts much different than normal. I recognize that and must adjust to that fact.
Describe your personal interests and hobbies.
My wife and I have three wonderful children. I enjoy spending time with them and attending their activities and events. I am a runner. I have run the Columbus Marathon three times, (2005, 2006, 2007) and I survived the 2007 Chicago Marathon. I am blessed with a wonderful group of friends who I've grown up with my entire life. I enjoy spending time with them, skiing, playing basketball, and I am a closet karaoke guy!
Describe your charitable activities.
Before having children I was much more involved in all sorts of charitable activities, ranging from the American Cancer Society to the Leukemia Society. Recently, I have been a member of the Board of Trustees of The Columbus Academy and the President of the Alumni Board. My wife and I contribute to many causes including United Way in Franklin County. In 2005, I raised over $10,000 for the Children’s Hospital Child Advocacy Center when I ran my first marathon. That was a personal victory for me, both in being able to run the marathon and to raise so much money for a worthy cause.
