My law practice focuses on the litigation of occupational disease claims of railroad employees, and the litigation of other personal injury claims in the areas of toxic substances, products liability, medical malpractice, gas explosions, motor vehicle collisions, and general negligence. I am also trained in mediation as an alternative method of dispute resolution. I am available to provide mediation services to litigants who seek a resolution of their claim outside the courtroomI have been an attorney for 41 years and my passion is serving as an advocate for those in need and organizations that provide services to those in need. I am Board Certified* as a Civil Trial Advocate by the National Board of Trial Advocacy, I am also Board Certified* in Civil Pre-Trial Advocacy by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. I am licensed to practice in Illinois, Missouri, Tennessee, and Arkansas. I have also successfully completed the Mediation Training Curriculum at Northwestern School of Professional Studies.My avocations are also an important part of my life and I am deeply involved in my community. I have been a volunteer at the YMCA of Southwest Illinois and the Gateway Region YMCA since the 1970s, serving in many positions starting from a lifesaving and first aid instructor to Chairman of the Board of Directors. Currently, I am serving as Immediate Past Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Gateway Region YMCA. I have also served on a committee of the YMCA of the USA where in 2000 I received the Lowell Linnes volunteerism award.I graduated cum laude twice from St. Louis University where I earned my undergraduate and law degrees. At St. Louis University, I was a staff member of the St. Louis University Law Review. I enjoy working with current law students and newly-minted attorneys to help them navigate their future careers in the legal profession.* The Supreme Court of Illinois does not recognize certifications of specialties and board certification is not a requirement to practice law in Illinois. The Supreme Court of Missouri nor The Missouri Bar reviews or approves certifying organizations or specialist designations.