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
Community Banking

Bold Perspectives
What Banks Need to Know About the M&A Market
10.07.20
Minnesota Real Estate Foreclosures: 21 Common Questions & Answers
08.24.20
Paycheck Protection Program: Treasury Guidance on Processing Fees
04.29.20
Honors & Awards
The Best Lawyers in America©
Banking and Finance Law, 2018-2021
Rising Stars
Minnesota Super Lawyers®, 2011-2012
Associations & Memberships
Bank Holding Company Association
Sponsor
Independent Community Bankers of Minnesota
Associate
Minnesota Bankers Association
Affiliate
American Bar Association
Financial Institution and Corporate Division