I have an accounting and business degree background, but I was more apt to be interested in how businesses run rather than just tracking the numbers. While I was getting my accounting degree, I had the opportunity to do a job shadow with the adjunct professor who taught the business law course for accounting majors, and finally got a taste of how the laws work and applies to businesses. Once I saw that, I was hooked.
My Approach
I get inspiration from my clients – community banks are truly made up of small to midsize business owners and at their core, are people who are focused on their communities, serving a role and investing in their markets in a way that no one else does, all with the goal of making their communities a better place. I do all I can to help them achieve those goals, through advising on any legal issue a community bank would encounter, from banking-specific issues like governance and regulatory issues, to aspects that any business organization has, like mergers and acquisitions, employment, intellectual property, benefits, or litigation disputes. I also spend time counseling clients on third-party vendor agreements and negotiations, including data processing, electronic banking agreements, payment systems, ACH wire transfer, and bill pay vendors.
I spend a great deal of time simply listening to my clients as they face challenges, particularly regarding market opportunities, regulation, and succession planning. I work with my clients as a partner, helping them find creative, practical solutions, and to allow them to focus on running their businesses. Because of my work in the industry, I also have strong relationships with banking regulators, investment bankers, accountants, business consultants, and other professionals, that can be beneficial for my clients.
Outside of work, I spend most of my time chasing around my four kids, and when I can, enjoy camping, hunting and fishing.
A Groundbreaking Moment in my Career
Practice Areas
Bold Perspectives
IS YOUR BANK A TARGET?
11.26.24
Navigating Difficult Board and Officer Strategy Decisions
10.17.24
Ask the Expert - Mergers & Acquisitions
10.07.24
Honors & Awards
The Best Lawyers in America©
Banking and Finance Law, 2018-2025
Rising Stars
Minnesota Super Lawyers®, 2011-2012
Associations & Memberships
Bank Holding Company Association
Sponsor
Bankln Minnesota (fka Independent Community Bankers of Minnesota)
Associate
Minnesota Bankers Association
Affiliate
Wisconsin Bankers Association
American Bar Association
Financial Institution and Corporate Division
Minnesota State Bar Association
Hennepin County Bar Association
Winthrop & Weinstine
Member, Board of Directors