“Jeff is an excellent litigator, and has extensive experience in real estate, construction and financial litigation,” said Ron Danna, senior principal and co-founder of the firm. “He’s a proven leader, and we believe he’s the one to lead the title litigation practice into its next phase, one committed to quality client service and continued growth.”

Supporting Schmitt and Danna McKitrick’s title litigation practice are litigators David P. Renovitch and David A. Zobel, as well as transactional lawyers Michael J. McKitrick and James M. Heffner. With McKitrick’s 30 years of experience in real estate litigation and transactions, McKitrick and other members of the transactional team focus on areas that are tangential and necessary to support title litigation, such as creditors’ rights.

Schmitt earned his J.D. from the University of Missouri-Columbia and his B.A. (magna cum laude) from Saint Louis University. He is admitted in Missouri, Illinois, U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Missouri, and U.S. Court of Appeals, Eighth Circuit.

Schmitt is past president of the Clayton Chamber of Commerce and executive committee member. After clerking for the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Eastern District of Missouri, he joined Danna McKitrick as a promising young law clerk and worked his way up to principal. He was recognized in 2010 by The Missouri Bar Young Lawyer’s Section as a “Young Lawyer You Should Know.”

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Saint Louis, MO – January 17, 2012 – Danna McKitrick, P.C. has announced that Attorney Margaret L. Wichmann has joined the firm as an associate. Wichmann represents business clients in matters related to business transactions, intellectual property, employment law, and real estate.

Wichmann will be an integral part of the firm’s expansion of their intellectual property, according to Ruth A. Binger, principal with Danna McKitrick and head of the firm’s transactional department.

“We’re pleased to successfully recruit a candidate with Maggie’s advanced degree in intellectual property. She’s a great addition to our growing IP practice,” said Binger. “Additionally, her skills and temperament also mesh well with our transactional team and further expand Danna McKitrick’s service to its business clientele.”

Wichmann is experienced in real estate, corporate, and financial transactions as well as litigation support for intellectual property and commercial litigation. She has also assisted business owners with estate planning matters.

“Danna McKitrick is exactly the type of firm I was looking to join,” stated Wichmann. “For me, the firm is ideal in terms of the size, the clients I work for, the resources available to associates, and the potential for professional growth through mentoring relationships. It is a great place to practice law.”

During law school, Wichmann worked in the Judicial Clerkship Clinic for Judge William D. Stiehl in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Illinois. Before law school, she worked as a legal assistant for a criminal attorney.

Wichmann has the unique experience of working as an intern in Bangkok, Thailand, studying the anti-trafficking laws in Southeast Asia and assisting in multi-lateral negotiations for the Thailand Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. She also participated in the Summer Institute for Global Justice at Utrecht University in the Netherlands.

Wichmann earned her LL.M. in Intellectual Property and J.D. from Washington University School of Law in St. Louis. Her credentials include: Dean’s List, Dagen-Legomsky Public Interest Fellowship, Cash-Nickerson Fellowship, Whitney R. Harris Wold Law Institute, Washington University Law Review Senior Editor and Staff Editor, Student Bar Association Faculty Appointments Committee, Environmental Moot Court Semi-Finalist, Women’s Law Caucus Executive Board Social Chair, International Humanitarian Law “Students as Teachers” Program Presenter, Negotiation Competition. She earned her B.A. in philosophy from Washington University.

Admitted in Missouri and the U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Missouri, Wichmann is a member of the American Bar Association, The Missouri Bar, and the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis. She is the author of “Reaching Beyond Guantanamo: The Future of Counter-Terrorism Law in the United States,” 6 Cambridge Student Law Review 197 (2010).

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David A. Zobel has been promoted to associate in the litigation department of Danna McKitrick, P.C. Zobel primarily represents individuals and corporations in the defense of civil litigation, including contract, negligence and real estate matters.

In addition to his court room work, Zobel assists in advising clients on contract and employment issues and regarding issues arising under the Sunshine Law.

“As a law student, I was attracted to Danna McKitrick’s breadth of practice areas. I valued the ability to gain experience in a multitude of legal areas working to solve issues for a variety of clients. As an attorney, I continue to value this firm’s coverage which often utilizes several practice areas in quickly and efficiently solving our clients’ matters,” Zobel stated.

Zobel is a great addition to the continually growing litigation practice of the firm, according to the head of the firm’s litigation group.

“We are constantly on the lookout for bright law students, and David has developed into a talented young attorney. Watching him grow over the past year and a half as a law clerk has given us the opportunity to see his strengths, and to know early on that we wanted him as a member of our litigation team,” said Daniel G. Tobben, principal and head of Danna McKitrick’s litigation department.

During law school, Zobel worked as an extern with the Missouri Court of Appeals, reviewing and summarizing appellate arguments and responses and drafting memoranda summarizing claims in preparation for oral arguments as well as memoranda on worker’s compensation, juvenile and criminal appeals.

He worked as a law clerk with Danna McKitrick in the areas of professional malpractice, real estate transactions, pensions and worker’s compensation. Zobel has experience in alternative dispute resolution on personal injury and wrongful death matters as well as client MSPRC lien claims matters, including negotiating lien settlements.

Zobel was an aide to Missouri State Senator Chuck Graham and worked across the state to promote the MOHELA reorganization bill.

He graduated cum laude from Saint Louis University School of Law in 2011, where his credentials include: Dean’s List, Journal of Health Law and Policy Staff Editor, Health Law Association, Legal Research and Writing Teaching Assistant. Zobel earned his B.S., cum laude, in political science with a leadership and public service minor from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 2008.

Zobel is admitted to practice in Missouri and the U.S. District Court, Western District of Missouri. He is a member of the Missouri Bar and the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis.

Read “People” … St. Louis Business Journal

St. Louis, MO – June 21, 2011 – The law firm of Danna McKitrick has announced that attorney David P. Renovitch has joined the firm. Renovitch brings his extensive litigation experience to the firm, especially in the areas of title litigation, recoupment and mechanic’s lien litigation, in Missouri, Illinois and Wisconsin.

“I saw joining Danna McKitrick as an opportunity to not only continue my title insurance defense practice but also return to general insurance defense, which I practiced for the first half of my legal career,” stated Renovitch. “My goal is to integrate electronic discovery and systems into our litigation practices.” 

Renovitch assists in all phases of civil litigation, including analysis and strategy, drafting pleadings, conducting discovery, filing and arguing dispositive motions, mediation and trial.

Experienced in preparing appellate briefs at the state and federal appellate court level, Renovitch has first-chair trial experience and has argued in front of the Missouri Court of Appeals.

Renovitch’s litigation practice includes matters related to: defense of insurance companies and their insureds; titles; banking and lending; construction; and real estate.

“We are pleased and excited to bring David into our firm,” said Michael J. McKitrick, principal with Danna McKitrick. “His experience in the title and real estate litigation areas will add depth and additional practical knowledge to these growing practices in our firm.”

Renovitch earned his J.D. from University of Wisconsin—Madison Law School (2001). He received his B.A. in Philosophy from Trinity International University (1994). He is a member of the Missouri Bar, the Illinois Bar, the Wisconsin Bar, and the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis.

A frequent author and speaker on title and other real estate and construction related matters, Renovitch authored “Mechanic’s Lien Law:  Section 429.016 Establishes New Notice Requirements” in the May-June issue of the Journal of the Missouri Bar. He was also a recent speaker at two NBI-sponsored CLEs: “Advanced Title Issues,” February 2011 and “Illinois Foreclosures,” June 2011.

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St. Louis, MO – June 1, 2011 – The law firm of Danna McKitrick, P.C., announced today that intellectual property, information technology and entertainment law attorney Jeffrey L. Michelman has joined the firm as its newest principal.

Michelman is involved in intellectual property management and litigation in the U.S. and abroad. He assists his clients with the development, acquisition, use and licensing of products and services under intellectual property law, particularly trademarks, copyrights, and proprietary computer software. Michelman also advises clients on legal issues regarding E-commerce and social networking activities as well as protection of trade secrets and “know-how”.

“There is definitely a different perceived professional ethic in the Midwest,” he says. “We’re perceived as more client-oriented and cost-effective. With technology I can easily stay in contact with my clients nationwide and in foreign countries and provide the same services and quality as the firms on the East or West Coast. What’s more, I can do it at a fee rate that is more palatable than on either coast,” Michelman said.

Michelman’s substantial client work in entertainment law will take Danna McKitrick into a new practice area. Michelman reviews his clients’ print and broadcast material for compliance with copyrights and trade regulations. He also manages his clients’ contracts for publicity and performance work, public appearances, endorsements, licensing, recording contracts, movie and TV options and development deals, and book publication.

His experience in the entertainment field includes: endorsements contracts with A-list actors; recording contracts with Grammy Award-winning artists; reality TV productions; and contracts with Academy Award-nominated producers and American Idol contestants.

Michelman has participated in successful litigation before the Supreme Court of the United States regarding trademark matters and represented KangaROOS U.S.A. against numerous corporations around the world for patent infringement. He has also represented an entertainment conglomerate in trademark and copyright infringement suits against clothing manufacturers that were settled favorably. Michelman recently successfully represented distributors for the South Butt parody clothing line.

“Jeff’s unique legal experience brings additional depth to the firm’s Intellectual Property Practice,” said Ruth Binger, Principal with Danna McKitrick. “Intellectual property issues continue to become more prominent as our lives center around technology. We anticipate Jeff’s extensive experience in this area of law will put the firm ahead of the curve in intellectual property now and into the future.”

Michelman earned his J.D. with Honors from Villanova University, an M.E. from Washington University in St. Louis, and his B.A. from Pennsylvania State University. He has served as an adjunct professor at both St. Louis University School of Law and Washington University School of Law in St. Louis. The founder and co-chair of the E-Commerce and Computer Law Committee of the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis, Michelman is a frequent speaker and noted author on intellectual property and entertainment law subjects and issues. He holds the honor of being a decorated Captain in the United States Army.

In addition to these professional accomplishments, Michelman has participated in numerous community activities: President, Inventors Association of St. Louis; Vice President, Art St. Louis; Board Member, Edison Theater, Washington University; Chair, Small Business Committee, St. Louis Counts; Graduate, Leadership St. Louis.

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“Many times throughout the past few years, our principals have gratefully observed that we currently have the best group of associates that we’ve ever had—they are truly exceptional. It’s a pleasure watching them grow and evolve as lawyers, bringing insights and strategic changes to our practice, as well as great legal talent. It’s now time to honor these three associates with promotions to principal and welcome them as peers into their new leadership positions,” says Ron Danna, senior principal and co-founder of the firm.

Long’s practice focuses are tort, employment, insurance, and healthcare law. She works with major insurers resolving claims; advises doctors, nurses, psychologists and other health care professionals on licensing, disciplinary, and hospital privilege issues; and consults and trains on employment law policies and processes, especially related to HIPAA privacy and security requirements.

Long earned her J.D. from Washington University School of Law and her B.A. (cum laude) from Vanderbilt University. She also graduated from both the International Association of Defense Counsel Trial Academy and Missouri Organization of Defense Lawyers Trial Academy. She formerly served as prosecutor and assistant city attorney for various municipalities in St. Louis County. Long serves as an alternate on the City of Kirkwood Board of Adjustment, and sits on the board of Legal Advocates for Abused Women and St. Genevieve du Bois School Board of Education.

Raza leads Danna McKitrick’s Family Law Department where she concentrates her practice in matters including pre- and post-nuptial agreements, annulments, divorce, child support and spousal support modifications, and probate litigation.

Raza obtained her J.D. from Washington University School of Law and her B.A. from George Washington University. She is also a graduate of the ABA Family Law Trial Advocacy Institute. She joined Danna McKitrick as a law clerk and advanced to eventually head her department. Raza serves on the boards of Angels’ Arms and the Scholarship Committee of Girls, Inc., is a member of the Islamic Foundation of Greater St. Louis, and is a former board member of The International Institute.

Schmitt’s commercial and general civil litigation practice includes financial and lending, construction, and real estate law as well as providing general legal counsel for small to mid-sized businesses.

Schmitt earned his J.D. from the University of Missouri-Columbia, his B.A. (magna cum laude) from Saint Louis University, and completed both the International Association of Defense Counsel Trial Academy and Missouri Organization of Defense Lawyers Trial Academy. He joined Danna McKitrick as a law clerk after clerking for the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Eastern District of Missouri.

Schmitt is a member of Transportation Lawyers Association and was named in 2010 as a “Young Lawyer You Should Know” by The Missouri Bar Young Lawyer’s Section. He just became president of the Clayton Chamber of Commerce after serving on the Chamber’s board for two years, and is a member of the board at Lutheran Church of the Resurrection.

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St. Louis, MO – Nov. 24, 2010 – Danna McKitrick, P.C. today announced that Chris Vanderbeek has joined the firm as a member of the litigation department to protect the interests of businesses and their insurers for whom Danna McKitrick are regional counsel.

Vanderbeek has several years of experience in analyzing liability and damages in the context of insurance and malpractice defense, as well as litigating real estate matters.

“We’re excited to have Chris join our team. He’s focused and committed to the challenges of insurance defense and to helping employers pursue the best possible outcomes against workers’ compensation and related claims, which is where he’ll spend most of his time,” said Brian Weinstock, a principal with Danna McKitrick.

Previously, Vanderbeek was an attorney with another St. Louis-based insurance defense firm and while in law school, he clerked with a Columbia, Mo. firm for two years.

“I had heard only good things about the firm and being here at Danna McKitrick has reinforced that perception—it’s been overwhelmingly positive. I was looking for a good place to do the work that I enjoy,” Vanderbeek said.

Vanderbeek is a 2009 graduate of the University of Missouri School of Law where he was on the Dean’s List, served as managing editor of the Journal of Dispute Resolution, and received the John E. Burruss Memorial Prize for Outstanding Contribution. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Missouri School of Journalism.

Vanderbeek is admitted to practice law in Missouri, Illinois, and the eastern and western District Courts of Missouri. He is a member of The Missouri Bar, Illinois State Bar Association and the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis.

Read “People in Business”… St. Louis Post-Dispatch

St. Louis, MO – Nov. 8, 2010 – Emily E. Kiser brings her proven strengths to Danna McKitrick, P.C., in her new position as an associate in the litigation department focusing in two areas: Bankruptcy and Real Estate Litigation.

She helps both creditors and debtors through bankruptcy reorganization in court or through informal workout processes that help clients avoid the costs associated with litigation. As creditor counsel, Kiser works with lenders to get the highest returns from troubled loans and maximize the value of their collateral. As debtor counsel, she helps businesses and individuals through the maze of bankruptcy proceedings.

As a member of the firm’s growing title litigation team, Kiser represents title insurers, their insureds, lenders, and contractors or developers to resolve disputes over land title and use. Some of this work is related to foreclosure actions, bankruptcy and collection.

“In the past year-and-a-half as a law clerk, we’ve witnessed Emily’s enthusiasm for the practice of law and there’s no question she is very bright and highly effective. She fits in perfectly and we’re glad to have her begin her law career here where our clients can benefits from Emily’s great work and service ethic.” said Tom DeWoskin, principal, Danna McKitrick.

Prior to joining Danna McKitrick as a law clerk in 2009, Kiser served as a congressional intern in the U.S. House of Representatives with U.S. Rep. Allen Boyd (D-North Florida).

“I was attracted to Danna McKitrick because it has a good reputation among St. Louis area law firms. Once I started here, the camaraderie was excellent and the culture in the office seems to be the sort of place where I can grow in my career with plenty of successful role-models to follow,” Kiser said.

Kiser’s undergraduate degrees are a B.A., magna cum laude, in political science, and a B.S cum laude in public relations, from the University of Florida in 2007. She recently obtained her J.D. from St. Louis University School of Law. She is admitted to practice law in Missouri and before the U.S. District Court, Eastern Missouri. She is a member of the Missouri Bar and the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis, Young Lawyers Division.

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St. Louis, MO – July 28, 2010 – A diverse litigation practice including insurance defense practice drew Kara D. Helmuth to the Clayton-based law firm Danna McKitrick, P.C. Helmuth practices primarily in insurance defense for many industries, including transportation, manufacturing and hospitality sectors.

Representing both claimants and insureds, her responsibilities include a wide range of situations including personal injury and products liability, such as scaffolding failures and barbecue grill fires. She also handles breach of contract cases. Her broad background includes defending claims regarding complex situations such as vicarious liability, negligence, construction defects and subrogation.

“I was attracted to Danna McKitrick for two primary reasons. The firm offers diversity in a wide range of insurance defense practice areas and can handle any issue a client may have, whether it’s transactional or litigation. And, Danna McKitrick provides a positive work environment that emphasizes excellence in our work product while allowing for a life outside of work. I saw they treat their people well,” Helmuth said.

Helmuth graduated magna cum laude from Saint Louis University School of Law and briefly worked for another St. Louis law firm before joining Danna McKitrick. At law school, she interned with the Saint Louis University Law Clinic where she argued before the Missouri Court of Appeals for the Eastern District of Missouri. She also interned with the deputy trial director if the Missouri State Public Defender’s office, where she participated in capital murder trials.

“We are pleased that we are able to attract attorneys of Kara’s caliber. Originally from northern Illinois, she has spent eight years in St. Louis and wants to stay in the area. Kara’s intelligence, enthusiasm and experience expand our capability to serve our rapidly growing insurance defense practice.” said John F. Cooney, a principal at Danna McKitrick.

About Danna McKitrick: Located in Clayton, Mo., Danna McKitrick, P.C. delivers legal representation to businesses (emerging to national), insurers, government-related entities, and individuals throughout the Midwest. To supplement its local resources, the firm is a member of MSI Global Alliance – an international association of over 250 independent law and accounting firms in 100 countries. www.dannamckitrick.com

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St. Louis, MO – Nov 9, 2009 – Law firm Danna McKitrick, P.C. today announced the addition of a new associate to its Clayton office. David Binder has joined the firm following a two-year period as a law clerk with the firm.

Binder works primarily in the areas of corporate, real estate and public pensions. He also has a strong background in tax and intellectual property, and has gained both transactional and litigation experience while at Danna McKitrick.

“We are pleased to add an associate with such excellent academic credentials, combined with experience at the firm, who can strengthen our presence in the corporate mergers and acquisitions, as well as tax areas,’ said Cheryl Beebe-Snell, a principal with Danna McKitrick.

Binder’s other practice areas include, emerging business, financial institutions, manufacturing and distribution, transportation and trademarks.

“I believe that Danna McKitrick is a firm of the highest integrity and has many professionals who are outstanding in their primary areas of practice. I look forward to continuing to work with and learn from my colleagues,” Binder said.

Binder graduated magna cum laude from Washington University School of Law in 2009 and holds a B.A. (summa cum laude) in finance and economics from St. Louis University in 2006. He is a member of the Missouri Bar Association and the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis. In addition, he was co-author of “Missouri Shared Work Program: A Unique Opportunity to Reduce Employees’ Hours While Still Qualifying Them for Unemployment.”

About Danna McKitrick: Located in Clayton, Mo., Danna McKitrick, P.C. delivers legal representation to businesses (emerging to national), insurers, government-related entities, and individuals throughout the Midwest. To supplement its local resources, the firm is a member of MSI Global Alliance – an international association of over 250 independent law and accounting firms in 100 countries. www.dannamckitrick.com.