Vita
39; born in San Antonio; bachelor’s and law degrees from UNC Chapel Hill; married with two young daughters and a dog.
Why he chose to specialize in this field
My practice is split between trial and appellate work, and that mix suits me well. I enjoy the fast pace of trial work, with its frequent opportunities to get in the courtroom, but I also crave an appellate docket with its intense thinking, reading and writing. Both are challenging and satisfying in their own way.
What he’d be if not a lawyer
I would probably want to do Rick Steves’ job.
Best advice received
From my recently retired law partner and mentor, Jerry Parnell: “Law is a serious business, but it’s OK to have fun while you’re at it.”
Favorite place
Price Lake in Watauga County, in the early morning before the rest of the world is awake, watching our older daughter skip rocks.
Favorite book
Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking by Marcella Hazan, because it’s the definitive treatise on a subject that is very important to me.
Favorite movie
The Godfather. It seems like in most litigation matters, there’s at least one situation where a Godfather quote applies.
Passions
“Family Fun Night” (a crazy game night with our kids every Friday at our house), traveling, and any kind of cooking that involves wood and fire.
