In 2016, we’re kicking off a new series where we’ll ask each of our attorneys five questions as a way to better acquaint you with the team that makes up Lane & Waterman.

We start with Ian Russell, a partner whose picture was taken right before he grew a great beard.

1. What was your favorite class in law school? My favorite law school class was a class about international law of the oceans and whaling.  It was taught by a former Prime Minister of New Zealand.  It was my favorite because the topic was completely new to me and the professor had real life accounts of negotiating international treaties.

2. What is the biggest challenge facing lawyers today? The biggest challenge facing lawyers today is how quickly the practice has evolved.  Clients have more options than ever, including more lawyers than before, and online and do it yourself services.  Clients want cost certainty and alternative fee arrangements.  We as lawyers have to continue to evolve and continue to provide outstanding service and value to meet our clients’ needs.

3. What advice would you give to young people aspiring to be lawyers? Find a place where you want to live and practice.  Then start building relationships there.  It will help the aspiring lawyer to find a job and eventually build a client base.

4. What book are you reading right now? I am reading The Martian  by Andy Weir and The Invisible Bridge: The Fall of Nixon and The Rise of Reagan by Rick Perlstein.

5. What do you do before 7 am every day? On a good day, I ride my spin bike for 45 minutes, read the Quad City Times and the Wall Street Journal, and skim The Washington Post, Politico, and Roll Call, online.  On a bad day, I sleep.

Learn more about Ian at: https://l-wlaw.com/attorneys/ian-j-russell/