Rooted in integrity. Driven by service. Dedicated to helping business owners thrive.
About Me
🌾 Where My Values Began
My core values—honesty, integrity, hard work, love of family, and helping others—were shaped on a family farm outside a small town in southwest Missouri. Working alongside my parents, siblings, and later my grandpa in his excavation business, I learned early that your word matters, your effort matters, and how you treat people matters. I saw my both my dad and grandpa shake hands with business owners and individuals, and knew their word was their bond.
By thirteen, I had started my own small business helping local farmers and business owners. The people who trusted me—my dad, my grandpa, and the business owners in our community—taught me that serving others with respect and integrity isn’t optional. It’s the foundation of a good life and a good business.
🎓 Following the Path That Fit
Those early lessons sparked a lifelong interest in business. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Business/Finance from the University of Missouri–Kansas City, and while building a career and starting a family, I realized that combining business and law was the right path for me. We moved, and I earned my Juris Doctor from the University of Tulsa College of Law.
⚖️ 25+ Years of Legal and Business Experience
For more than 25 years, I’ve worked as an attorney and in‑house counsel across multiple industries. I’ve negotiated complex contracts, guided executives through high‑stakes decisions, resolved conflicts, protected company assets, and helped businesses grow with confidence.
Over time, I felt a pull back to my roots—back to serving the kinds of business owners I grew up around. That’s why I started my own firm.
🤝 How I Serve Business Owners Today
I provide concierge‑level legal and business guidance designed specifically for small and mid‑sized business owners. Clients get ongoing access to an experienced advisor who understands both the legal landscape and the realities of running a business. I have solid experience in:
Contracts & Risk Reduction
Negotiating vendor, service, technology, and federal government contracts
Ensuring contract terms protect the business
Addressing expectations upfront to prevent costly disputes
Resolving conflicts between suppliers and companies
Advising executives on practical, legally sound solutions
Protecting company assets and goodwill, including trademarks
Employment & Workplace Guidance
Preparing employee handbooks tailored to the business
Drafting and negotiating employment agreements
Helping executives address employee issues legally and respectfully
Reducing tensions to create healthier, more effective workplaces
Real Estate Transactions
Negotiating commercial leases and purchase/sale agreements
Researching titles and managing risk during transfers
Navigating legal and financial terms with clarity and confidence
Mediation & Conflict Resolution
Missouri Basic Core Mediation (Rule 17) trained
Applying mediation techniques to resolve disputes efficiently and respectfully
Executive Advisory Relationships
Building trust‑based relationships with CEOs and executive teams
Offering practical, strategic legal and business counsel
Helping companies develop processes that support growth, including international sales
Bringing diplomacy, tact, and creativity to complex challenges
👨👩👧👦 A Little More About Me
At my core, I’m a family man who loves being part of our community. My wife and I will celebrate our 40th anniversary in 2026. We’ve lived in a small town outside St. Louis for more than 26 years, where we raised our two children. Today, in addition to our terrific kids, we’re blessed with a son‑in‑law, a future daughter‑in‑law, and two wonderful grandchildren who keep life fun and exciting.
When I’m not working, you’ll usually find me hiking, fishing, spending time with my family, or playing with our granddaughters. I also volunteer with Equine Assisted Therapy (EAT), an outstanding not‑for‑profit organization where I get to combine my love of helping others with my love of horses. Whether I’m training and caring for horses, teaching volunteers, assisting participants, or driving a tractor, I’m happy to pitch in wherever I’m needed.