Why did you decide to become an attorney?
I have always admired the legal system's goal of objectively and dispassionately gathering facts, and having an impartial voice from the community consider and weigh evidence presented by attorneys representing opposing viewpoints, to reach a just and fair result. That process gives equal voice and opportunity to be heard by the powerless, as well as the powerful.
What experiences (work and personal) help you to be a better attorney?
While growing up and listening to the radio in the family car, there was a series called "It's a Point of Law" that presented a fact pattern and legal dispute. I always tried to guess how the dispute would be resolved before the narrator would reveal the outcome and solemnly intone, "It's a Point of Law!" I worked in many different blue collar jobs through school, and saw how important it is to people to have an opportunity to be successful in providing for their families. I have also seen the chaos and burden that people must cope with when they have suffered serious injuries or losses: My grandmother was widowed at a very young age because of the neglect of a railroad crossing guard, and forced to work and struggle to provide for the care of my mother as a single parent during a time when there were not many opportunities for women in the work force. That tragedy shaped and defined both of their lives forever.
What made you choose your primary area of law?
Practicing in the field of "torts" always seemed like solving mysteries: what happened, and why, and what could have been done to prevent a tragic outcome. Whether the question was who had the red light, what caused a plane to fall from the sky, or what caused a patient to suffer a horrible, preventable complication, the forensic aspect of this field has always intrigued me.
What makes your law firm unique?
Our firm is unique in that it is very small, and yet very sophisticated in the level of experience and expertise that we can bring to bear. We have a cohesive group of people who are a second "family", and very much enjoy working and socializing with each other. Everyone is committed to helping our clients, on a personal level as well with the legal fight we wage on their behalf. We help people with cases other firms deem "too small", as well as the other end of the spectrum, such as serving as national trial counsel in complex multidistrict pharmaceutical litigation.
Describe your ideal client.
There is no such thing as an ideal client. People are obviously unique, but in some sense they are also the same: everyone comes to us with a vast array of life experiences, good and bad. Some have been able to survive and cope with their life experiences, trials and tribulations better than others, but it is important to respect and understand those who struggle to cope. We see it as part of our mission to help juries understand who each person is, and why they are the individual person they are, for better or worse. As I tell my clients, I can deal with any situation in their personal life; the only thing I am unable to deal with is dishonesty. If you tell the truth, people will empathize and understand with the human condition.
Describe your personal interests and hobbies.
I enjoy travel and being active in sports and outdoor activities. I value most the time I spend with my son, helping him experience new activities, places and ideas, and develop a broad perspective on life.
