1. Please share some of your recent projects and/or accomplishments.

I litigated a dissolution of marriage case with client assets of more than ten million dollars. This case included equitable principles set forth in the Iowa Code along with a case from Iowa’s appellate courts discussing very short-term marriages. The case was highly fact intensive with the parties at complete opposite ends of what a reasonable settlement would look like.

I have worked with global Dentons attorneys regarding closely held companies and drafting agreements for the non-owning spouse to have an economic-only interest in shares in the event of a divorce. The project also involved revising operating agreements, creating spousal consent forms, and providing strategic communications for the boards of directors and the business owners.

2. What does LGBTQ+ pride mean to you?

LGBTQ+ pride means living in a society where all individuals have the same access to and application of the law. Clearly this is work to be done, but the great thing about our country is how we endure challenges through the rule of law. The very fundamental connection we all share is the equal protection our laws provide.

3. What is your advice for less experienced LGBTQ+ colleagues?

Dentons is full of welcoming attorneys. In your own office or across the globe, we are the firm living out diversity, equity, and inclusion. LGBTQ+ voices add value to client success. This is because diversity in how we live through law in our daily lives gives us each unique experiences.

4. Who has inspired you to embrace your identity?

Dentons has inspired me to embrace my identity as a gay man. I have practiced as an associate and shareholder at other law firms. None of them come close to the acceptance and encouragement of our firm for me to be who I am.

5. What are your pronouns? Why are they important to you?

He/Him/His are my pronouns. They are important because each person deserves respect.

6. Those who don't know you very well would be surprised to learn that…

When I was fifteen years old, the local radio station reaching around eight counties in Iowa gave me the keys to the station. I cannot imagine this happening now! I operated the board for sports games, served as on-air talent for news and weather, and every year the radio station’s biggest client chose me to serve as the voice of Cupid for their annual Valentine’s Day advertisements through the month of February. Yes, I used to have glossy photos I would sign. If you want one, let me know!

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