Geschke Joins Danna McKitrick’s Litigation Department

ENHANCES FIRM’S CIVIL/COMMERCIAL LITIGATION AND FAMILY LAW PRACTICES

St. Louis, MO – August 5, 2010 – Bringing more than five years’ experience to the firm, Jennifer L Geschke will practice in the civil and commercial litigation department and in family law. Before joining Danna McKitrick, P.C., Geschke worked with another St. Louis firm where she practiced civil and commercial litigation. She also worked with a Washington, Mo. general practice law firm where she focused on civil litigation and family law.

Her business litigation experience includes employment law matters, such as discrimination, wrongful termination and non-compete agreements. She also has a strong background in intellectual property matters involving trademarks and trade secret protection, as well as in class action disputes, complex contracts, and general corporate matters.

Her family law background includes divorce, child custody, child support and paternity. She has been a court-appointed guardian ad litem representing children in divorce and child-abuse cases.

“I was attracted to Danna McKitrick because of its reputation in the St. Louis legal community. Several attorneys recommended the firm, even some who were on the other side during a trial. I look forward to bringing my experience to benefit the firm’s existing clients and attract new ones,” Geschke said.

Geschke has briefed several cases before the Missouri Court of Appeals and the Missouri Supreme Court. While a law student at Saint Louis University School of Law, she clerked for a judge in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri. She has worked in civil litigation in both state and federal court.

“Litigation and family law are two of our fast growing departments at Danna McKitrick. Jennifer has a history of effectively and efficiently pursuing solutions that benefit her clients, in both business-related litigation and family-law-related matters. We are excited that she chose to join us and look forward to bringing her experience to work for our clients,” said David Bohm, principal and co-chair of the litigation department at Danna McKitrick.

Geschke’s undergraduate degree in English is from the University of Missouri – St. Louis where she graduated cum laude. She is admitted to the bar in Missouri and U.S. District Courts in both the Eastern and Western Districts of Missouri.

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.

Read “Newsmakers”… Missouri Lawyers Media

Attorney Kara D. Helmuth Joins Danna McKitrick, P.C.

BRINGS DIVERSE LITIGATION EXPERIENCE TO CLAYTON FIRM

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

Read “Newsmakers”… Missouri Lawyers Media
Read “Business News”… Suburban Journals

Thomas Glick Elected President of The Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis

Danna McKitrick, P.C. proud of Tom Glick and his election as BAMSL’s newest president as of May 1, 2010.

Thomas G. Glick from Clayton and principal at Danna McKitrick, P.C was elected as president of The Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis (BAMSL) for 2010-2011 at the Annual Meeting held April 13, 2010 at BAMSL headquarters.  He will formally assume the office on May 1, 2010.

Read the official release… The Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis

Read “Business in Focus” on May 28, 2010… The Ladue News
Read “Were You There When…” on May 28, 2010… The Ladue News
Read “People in Business” on May 10, 2010… The St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Read “Business News”… Suburban Journals
Read “Newsmakers”… Missouri Lawyers Media

Read “Message from the President”… BAMSL

James Heffner Appointed to Cardinal Glennon Impact Board

GROUP RAISES AWARENESS AND FUNDS FOR CARDINAL GLENNON CHILDREN’S MEDICAL CENTER

St. Louis, MO, March 2, 2010- James Heffner, an attorney with Clayton-based Danna McKitrick, P.C., has been selected to the Impact Board of Cardinal Glennon Children’s Medical Center.

Heffner is a member of the firm’s transactional practice group, concentrating on banking and finance, corporate, and real estate law.

“I wanted to get involved with Cardinal Glennon because it is a great organization and its activities directly benefit the Children’s Medical Center,” Heffner said.

The IMPACT Board is a group of young professionals who volunteer to promote community awareness and raise funds for the overall betterment of Cardinal Glennon Children’s Medical Center. The spirit created through the special events/social functions fosters a commitment to civic responsibility and provides opportunity for personal growth.

Heffner is a 2005 graduate of St. Louis University Law School and a 2002 graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia. Prior to joining Danna McKitrick, he served as a judicial law clerk for former St. Louis Circuit Judge Michael Calvin.

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.  The firm can be viewed on the web at www.dannamckitrick.com.

Ruth Binger Named “Top Lawyer” by St. Louis Small Business Monthly

St. Louis, MO, February 3, 2010 - Ruth Binger, a principal of Clayton-based law firm Danna McKitrick, P.C. has been named as a “Top Small Business Lawyer” in this month’s edition of St. Louis Small Business Monthly.

The recognition is for attorneys who play an active and necessary role in many facets of entrepreneurs’ businesses. It recognizes attorneys who have proven their dedication to the success of small businesses in St. Louis, according to the magazine. All the Top Small Business Lawyer recipients are selected by the magazine’s readers.

Binger said she provides small businesses with advice to help them achieve their goals.

“I know how difficult it is to navigate competing business priorities and grow a small business at the same time. It is my job to give wise legal counsel so my clients grow and prosper,” Binger said.

She also provides her clients with advice on intellectual property law, employment and labor law, as well as aspects of corporate law regarding structure and governance of businesses, contracts, licensure, franchise, confidentiality, distribution consulting and joint venture agreements. Binger is a member of the Commercial Panel of Arbitrators of the American Arbitration Association and is qualified as a neutral third party to resolve disputes between businesses. She also is active in the community helping not-for-profit organizations.

Download Binger Top Lawyer media release (PDF)

James Morris Joins Danna McKitrick, P.C.

BRINGS STRONG LITIGATION BACKGROUND TO FIRM

St. Louis, MO – Nov 25, 2009 – James C. Morris has joined Danna McKitrick, P.C. as an associate. Prior to joining, Morris practiced law and owned and operated a ready-mix concrete company, as well as co-owned a real-estate development company.

Morris’ litigation background includes defending complex coverage claims made against casualty and liability insurers. He handles workers’ compensation, catastrophic injury, wrongful death, premises, property, and product liability claims, as well as other commercial disputes through trial or negotiated settlements.

“Jay brings several years of significant litigation experience in addition to his business background to the firm, which will provide our clients additional insights to meet their needs. His firsthand experience as a small business owner offers a fresh perspective that many of our clients will welcome. In defending workers’ compensation cases, Jay combines his insurance defense knowledge with his experience in working with small business owners. We look forward to his work in our corporate and litigation practices,” said Dan Tobben, a principal with Danna McKitrick.

In addition to his litigation background, Morris helps clients in the formation, growth and exit strategies of their organizations. Much of his legal work includes mergers and acquisitions, contracts and operational counsel as well as risk mitigation.

“I chose Danna McKitrick because of the diverse practice and its broad base of clients. That combination enables me to bring a variety of my experience to the table to help those clients,” Morris said.

Prior to joining Danna McKitrick, Morris began his legal career with another St. Louis law firm defending claims of catastrophic injury, wrongful death and workers’ compensation, as well as premises and product liability. He also spent time in Alabama, where he was a sole practitioner and general counsel for a concrete company. After returning to Missouri, he founded a concrete business which he later sold.

Morris graduated from University of Alabama School of Law in 2001 after receiving a B.A. from Spring Hill College in 1997. He is admitted to practice in Missouri, Alabama, U.S. District Courts in the Eastern District of Missouri and Southern District of Alabama, and the Missouri Court of Appeals, Eastern District.

He is a member of the Missouri Bar, the Alabama Bar, and the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis.

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.

David Binder Joins Danna McKitrick, P.C.

BECOMES MEMBER OF TRANSACTIONAL TEAM ON CORPORATE MATTERS

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.

Jim Borchers Named to “50 Over Fifty”

ST. CHARLES BUSINESS MAGAZINE NAMES DANNA MCKITRICK PRINCIPAL

St. Charles, MO. — An attorney in charge of the Danna McKitrick law firm’s St. Charles office has received an award for community leadership. Jim Borchers, a principal with Danna McKitrick, was chosen to receive the 50 Over Fifty Community Shapers Award by the St. Charles Business Magazine.

The award is presented bi-annually to individuals who have a proven track record of doing amazing things in their personal and professional lives, according to magazine publisher Laura Powell.

Powell noted that the award is given only to the best of the best in Saint Charles County.

“The judges were overwhelmed by the number of deserving candidates, their accomplishments, and the outstanding contributions each honoree has made towards a better St. Charles County,” Powell said

“I believe that St. Charles has many dedicated business leaders and I am truly honored to be recognized as one of them by St. Charles Business Magazine. Danna McKitrick is proud to be part of the St. Charles business community,” Borchers said.

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.

Danna McKitrick Attorney, Brian Weinstock, Earns Judgment Involving Historic Tax Credits

BREACH OF CONSTRUCTION AND FINANCING CONTRACT

St. Louis, MO – In a case involving an award that includes future State of Missouri Historical Tax Credits for the rehabilitation of two structures on the south side of St. Louis, a judge awarded $1.1 million for breach of a construction and financing contract.

The judgment follows a complex effort to finance the rehabilitation of two structures located at the intersection of Virginia and Cherokee Streets. Defendants’ counsel at one point also included defendant Richard Coffin who, according to his LinkedIn profile, was a Federal Prosecutor with the U.S. Department of Justice.

The case involved J and J Home Builders, Inc. d/b/a HomeSource v. Cherokee Villas, L.L.C. and was tried before Judge Robert Cohen. The plaintiff was represented by Brian Weinstock of Danna McKitrick, P.C.

J and J Home Builders, Inc. d/b/a HomeSource entered into a construction and financing agreement with Cherokee Villas, LLC with personal guarantees executed by Richard Coffin, Thomas Beck, Leigh Ann Verhelle and Rokas Varanavicius because capital was needed to complete the renovation to the parcels. J and J Home Builders, Inc. d/b/a HomeSource was to provide financing for the parcels and pay off pre-existing debt with Frontenac Bank. In addition to finding for the plaintiff for repayment of the principal and interest of the loan, the judgment included any future Missouri Historical Tax Credits for which the project may qualify as a key part of the original agreement. Plaintiffs estimate that the tax credits could range from zero to $150,000.

“We think that this is a fair judgment and breaks new ground in the area of tax credits being part of a case before they are awarded when predicated as part of the loan,” said Brian Weinstock an attorney with Danna McKitrick who represented J and J Home Builders, Inc. d/b/a HomeSource.

Plaintiff attempted to obtain Missouri historical tax credits, however some of the required paperwork was missing. Additionally, the defendants in the case delayed and refused to provide a release and assignment of the Missouri historical tax credit file held by the Missouri Department of Economic Development.

About Danna McKitrick, P.C.:Located in Clayton, Mo., Danna McKitrick, P.C. represents businesses (emerging to national), insurers, government-related entities, and individuals throughout the Bi-state St. Louis area and adjoining states. To supplement its local resources, the firm is a member of MSI Global Alliance – an international association of more than 250 member firms in 100 countries. The firm can be viewed on the Web at www.dannamckitrick.com.

Richard F. Huck, III Moves Practice to Danna McKitrick, P.C.

PROMINENT LITIGATION ATTORNEY JOINS CLAYTON LAW FIRM

St. Louis, MO — Local law firm Danna McKitrick, P.C. announces Richard F. Huck, III as their newest principal. Huck’s extensive business litigation experience includes construction, real estate, insurance, and professional liability matters. As lead counsel, he has brought more than 35 jury trials to verdict and is also a seasoned mediator and arbitrator.

“We are very pleased that Rich has joined our team.  He strengthens our capabilities in construction law, and adds another dimension to our well-established insurance and professional liability practice,” says Dan Tobben, who leads the firm’s litigation department.

Prior to joining Danna McKitrick, Huck was a partner since 1989 with two other leading St.Louis firms, one of which merged to become a regional firm.

“I am pleased to be in a mid-size firm, which very much appeals to me, with a sophisticated practice and talented professionals,” Huck says.

Huck earned his J.D. from St. Louis University School of Law and his B.A. in politics from Washington & Lee University.

About Danna McKitrick, P.C.: Located in Clayton, Mo., Danna McKitrick, P.C. represents businesses (emerging to national), insurers, government-related entities, and individuals throughout the Bi-state St. Louis area and adjoining states. To supplement its local resources, the firm is a member of MSI Global Alliance – an international association of more than 250 member firms in 100 countries. The firm can be viewed on the Web at www.dannamckitrick.com.

###

Media Contacts:
Jim Grandone, Public Relations
618.692.1892

Dan Tobben, Principal
314.889.7125

View PDF