I help state and federal banks navigate expansion strategies, bank partnerships, acquisition and sale of banking organizations, and system integrations. I advise financial institutions and fintechs on consumer, small business and treasury management deposit, lending and payment financial products and services, digital banking, emerging payment systems, innovative technology, fraud, banking operations, branching, marketing, customer experience, servicing channels, compliance, risk management, regulatory examinations, and Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS) arrangements. I have assisted all three lines of defense with risk assessments, audits, investigations, compliance reviews, exam and audit findings, and related remediations. I am experienced in drafting account and loan agreements and disclosures, customer communications, Compliance Management System policies, third party service agreements, correspondent banking agreements, and regulatory responses, defending banks in litigation matters, presenting at bank board meetings, and monitoring regulatory and litigation developments to help clients stay ahead of emerging risks.
My Approach
Drawing upon nearly two decades of experience in-house at national banks, I understand the urgency that comes with customer-facing issues and questions. I bring a practical, real-world perspective, allowing me to provide actionable solutions that allow my clients to move forward with confidence. My goal is never to be the “department of no,” but to provide my clients with a roadmap for a solution that is both legally compliant and operationally effective.
It’s been fascinating to watch new and innovative technologies make their way into the financial services industry. During my tenure, I’ve watched payment processing move from checks and cards, to chips, tap-to-pay, and mobile wallets and the evolution of digital banking. These advancements, coupled with the inherent consumer-driven nature of the banking sector and continually evolving regulatory landscape, require agility and focus. I help my clients resolve issues quickly so they can refocus on the work they enjoy most.
Outside of work, I enjoy cooking and baking. Some of my favorites are prime rib, seasonal soups, pies (of all kinds), and cookies. Who doesn’t love a good chocolate chip cookie?
Practice Areas
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Community Banking
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Bank Regulatory
Bold Perspectives
Honors & Awards
Twin Cities Business
Notable Women in Law, 2025
MSBA North Star Lawyer
Pro Bono Service, 2015 – 2025
Associations & Memberships
Minnesota Women Lawyers
Member, 2018 – Present
Board Director, 2023 – 2025
Co-Chair of Publications Committee, 2023 – 2025
LegalCORPS
Emeritus Director, 2024 – Present
Board Director, 2015 – 2024
President, 2020 – 2023
Vice President, 2019 – 2020, 2023 – 2024
Treasurer, 2016 – 2019
American Mock Trial Association
Mock Trial Judge, 2022
Minnesota Corporate Pro Bono Council
2014 – 2022
Minnesota State Bar Association
Corporate Counsel Section, 2012 – 2025
Member, 2012 – 2025
Councilmember, 2012 – 2022
Vice Chair, 2015 – 2017, 2012 – 2013
Chair, 2013 – 2014
Our Saviours Community Services
Board Director, 2013 – 2014
Ramsey County Bar Association
Member, 2002 – 2014
Chair, Judge’s Dinner Committee, 2005 – 2006
Chair, CLE Oversight Committee, 2007
MN Supreme Court
Legal Services Planning Committee, Emerging Leaders Forum, 2011
MSBA State High School Mock Trial Program
Mock Trial Judge, 2005 – 2009