Describe your career trajectory.
I worked at the state capital in Madison for four years after college as a page in the legislature. For three years I supervised the other pages, who were mostly college students, then I moved to Milwaukee. I found the legal field interesting, but I didn’t necessarily want to go to law school, so becoming a paralegal was a good option.
Is there a matter or case you worked on that you found particularly rewarding or interesting?
While I work on a lot of cases involving companies, I find civil rights cases incredibly interesting, in part because it’s easy to wrap my mind around an individual’s concerns. I’ve worked on a number of prisoner civil rights cases, including in several where our attorneys served pro bono and obtained successful results. The attorneys I work with always make the effort to include me as an important part of the team.
Why have you chosen to make your career at Husch Blackwell?
After building relationships with the attorneys over the years, they trust me to complete my assignments efficiently, accurately and on time. And, of course, I am given assistance when or if I need it.
What is your advice for a new hire?
Try to work with as many attorneys and senior paralegals as possible. A lot of them have work that you can help address, which helps you become a much more integral part of the team. I probably work with 10 or 12 attorneys at any given time, so my plate is always full.
How has Husch Blackwell supported you in achieving work/life balance?
I have somewhat flexible hours. While I understand that there may be a trial next week, I’m fairly independent with my time. When I am at work, I understand how I am able to support the team.