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

Ruth Binger, a principal of Clayton-based law firm Danna McKitrick, P.C. has been named as one of its Top Small Business Lawyers 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. 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)

Morris Joins Danna McKitrick, P.C. as Associate

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 as Associate

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.

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 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.

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Media Contacts:
Jim Grandone, Public Relations
618.692.1892

Dan Tobben, Principal
314.889.7125

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Scott Mueller Joins Danna McKitrick, P.C.

BRINGS STRONG BACKGROUND IN REAL ESTATE, BANKING

St. Louis, MO — July 6, 2009 — Citing the firm’s value system and emphasis on character, Scott Mueller returned to St. Louis from Kansas City to join Danna McKitrick this spring. As part of  the firm’s litigation department, his primary focus is on commercial litigation with an emphasis on real estate-related matters.

Mueller has worked in the real estate industry since 2003 in St. Louis. He represents title insurance underwriters, insured owners, lenders, and title agents. In addition to his work analyzing and resolving title claims, he handles lien disputes, mortgage issues and breach of contract claims.

“I am happy to be in St. Louis and look forward to working with the firm and its clients, as well as being part of the quality team of attorneys at Danna McKitrick,” Mueller said.

Mueller also is involved assisting the firm’s lender clients with secured lending, mortgage issues and, if necessary, foreclosures. Mueller advises clients on properly documenting collateral, managing loan agreements and structure, and collections on delinquent loans.

“Scott is an asset to our growing litigation practice. He brings a strong background in real estate and title litigation defense and he will be working on that and on mortgage issues here,” principal Mike McKitrick said.

Mueller is admitted to the bar in Missouri, Illinois, Kansas. He also is admitted in U.S. district courts in the Eastern and Western Districts of Missouri and the U.S. District Court of Kansas.

He graduated with his law degree in 2006 from St. Louis University School of Law with a specialization in Business Transactions. He received a B.A. and graduated with honors in history from Southern Illinois University in 2002.

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.

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Media Contacts:
Jim Grandone, Public Relations
618.692.1892

Mike McKitrick, Principal
314.889.7128

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Marcella Donkin Bono Joins Danna McKitrick, P.C.

HEALTHCARE CAREER PRECEDED LAW PRACTICE

St. Louis, MO – Danna McKitrick, P.C. today announced the addition of Marcella Donkin Bono to its staff of attorneys at the Clayton-based law firm. In addition to her education as an attorney, Bono is a certified pediatric nurse practitioner and a registered nurse. She previously was employed at St. Louis Children’s Hospital and has extensive experience in pediatric critical care.

“Marcie is a remarkably versatile attorney. She currently is working in the area of bankruptcy law, and her healthcare experience is very helpful to the firm,” said Tom DeWoskin, who leads the firm’s bankruptcy and creditor’s rights practice group.

At Danna McKitrick, Bono represents both creditors and debtors through either the formal bankruptcy or informal workout processes, as well as doing bankruptcy trustee work. Her out-of-court work includes restructuring complicated situations for business and individuals, and working to increase creditor’s returns on troubled loans.

“I enjoy the variety and challenge of my bankruptcy work and feel that my healthcare background is a good resource for our clients,” Bono said.

Bono received her J.D. from St. Louis University School of Law in 2008 with a certificate in Health Law. She earned her M.S.N. from the University of Missouri-St. Louis and her undergraduate degrees from St. Louis University (B.S.N.) and Murray State University (B.S. in biology).

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.

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Media Contacts:
Jim Grandone, Public Relations
618.692.1892

Tom DeWoskin, Principal
314.889.7128

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Law Firm Grows, Moves In Clayton

BUSINESS GROWTH, FAVORABLE LEASE TERMS LEAD THE MOVE

Clayton, MO – Clayton-based law firm Danna McKitrick has moved to 23,000 sq. ft. in the Pierre Laclede Center, at 7701 Forsyth Blvd., Suite 800, from its previous location on North Meramec in Clayton. The decision to remain in Clayton followed an extensive search, which included other spaces in Clayton, as well as locations in downtown St. Louis and in the Highway 40 corridor.

“Clayton is convenient for our clients and staff. We have deep roots here and are deeply involved in the community here,” Glick said.

Since 2004 Danna McKitrick, P.C., has grown by 20 percent to 28 attorneys, along with an an administrative staff of 25 people.

“This move is critical to the firm’s continued expansion and will help accommodate our needs, as we continue to add resources to support our existing clients and provide more depth for new clients coming on board,” Glick said.

The firm moved its entire Clayton office May 15 & 16 and will spend part of the following week training on new technology it is having installed at it’s new location.

Terms of the Lease were not disclosed.

About Danna McKitrick: With offices in Clayton and St. Charles, Mo., Danna McKitrick, P.C. delivers legal representation to new and growing businesses, financial institutions, non-profits, government-related entities, as well as families throughout the Midwest. To supplement its local resources, the firm is a member of MSI Global Alliance – an international association of more than 250 independent law and accounting firms in 100 countries. www.dannamckitrick.com

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Media Contacts:
Thomas G. Glick, Principal
314.889.7177

Jim Grandone, Public Relations
618.692.1892

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Two From Danna McKitrick Elected to Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis

PRESIDENT ELECT AND YOUNG LAWYER DIVISION TREASURER

St. Louis, MO – Two members of the Clayton-based Danna McKitrick, P.C. law firm were elected April 6 to separate posts by the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis.

Thomas G. Glick, a principal at the firm, was elected President-elect of BAMSL. James M. Heffner, an associate with Danna McKitrick, was chosen as Treasurer of the Young Lawyer Division of the organization. Glick will automatically assume the president’s position in May of 2010.

Glick joined Danna McKitrick in 2007 and has been active in BAMSL since 1998. His primary areas of practice include probate, estate administration, estate planning and real estate matters. He also handles elder law and litigation that may arise during probate or estate administration, including guardianships and conservatorships.

“I am very honored to be able to serve the membership of BAMSL as president-elect of the organization. This is the culmination of a long involvement with the bar association and I am eager to guide the organization through the next series of challenges including continued fiscal responsibility and preparation for a renegotiation of our lease or movement to a new headquarters,” Glick said.

Heffner practices in corporate and real estate law. He has experience in the purchase, sale, financing and leasing of real estate, as well as drafting and negotiation of construction documents. In corporate matters, he supports business owners in structuring entities, shareholder disputes, mergers and stock purchases/redemptions.

“As Treasurer, I will serve on the Executive Committee of the Young Lawyers Division of the Bar Association. I look forward to supporting the organization’s continuing initiatives in educational and charitable issues that will come before that body.”

About BAMSL: Founded in 1874, BAMSL is a professional association of more than 6,000 lawyers and judges. Comprising 11 sections and more than 60 committees including a Young Lawyers Division, BAMSL with the St. Louis Bar Foundation, serves the educational, professional and practice needs of the organized bar, providing a broad range of programs and services to benefit the community. www.bamsl.org

About Danna McKitrick: With offices in Clayton and St. Charles, Mo., Danna McKitrick, P.C. delivers legal representation to new and growing businesses, financial institutions, non-profits, government-related entities, as well as families throughout the Midwest. To supplement its local resources, the firm is a member of MSI Global Alliance – an international association of more than 250 independent law and accounting firms in 100 countries. www.dannamckitrick.com

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Media Contacts:
Thomas G. Glick, Principal
314.889.7177

Jim Grandone, Public Relations
618.692.1892

View PDF