I didn’t have the typical path to becoming a lawyer, and I am proud of the experience I bring and my unique background. Before attending law school – or even earning my undergraduate degree – I worked for many years as an IP paralegal. I finished my undergraduate degree and then attended law school while working full time at Winthrop. I appreciate having the perspective that I do, not only of the value of hard work, but also of all the different aspects that go into the final product of obtaining a trademark or patent – it’s so much more than just the law. Whether it’s understanding a client’s business goals, or knowing a client’s entire portfolio and how they’re prosecuting in particular jurisdictions, or their enforcement preferences, there are so many considerations that have an impact on how I help each client protect their IP.
My Approach
I love working with my clients because they’re excited about their future when they come to me – they have an idea for a new product or service, are starting a new brand, or are trying to grow their existing business. I get to advocate for the most creative and innovative people who have a vast diversity of ideas, and help them take those ideas from the back of a napkin to a product out in the marketplace.
I appreciate that my work encompasses a wide range of industries – not all lawyers are so lucky. In a single day, I can move from working on trademark enforcement for a cannabis-derived pharmaceutical to international filing strategy for a medical device patent to privacy policies, DPA’s, and GDPR/CCPA compliance for tech companies. I truly value the time I spend helping my clients because their products and services enhance our lives and better our communities.
When I’m not at the office, I enjoy walking around the lakes to a Peloton class or checking out the newest brunch and Bloody Mary hot spots (one might say I’m a brunch connoisseur). I have also served as the Corporate Secretary on the Board of my HOA for many years and am serving as the Co-Membership Engagement Director of the Hennepin County Bar Association New Lawyers Section.
MY PATH TO THE LAW
Practice Areas
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Intellectual Property
Bold Perspectives
St. Thomas New Lawyers Q&A Panel
11.27.23
Breaking the Ice: From paralegal to IP attorney and now author
09.07.23
The Practitioner’s Guide to the Patent Cooperation Treaty
05.31.23
Associations & Memberships
American Bar Association
Minnesota State Bar Association
Hennepin County Bar Association
New Lawyers Section Co-Membership Engagement Director, 2021, 2022
