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What inspired you to become an attorney, and how did you choose your specific field of law?  I started out in construction when I was a kid working with my dad, building log homes.  After that, I built residential homes in the Bemidji, MN area, and ultimately decided to get my degree in Construction Management.  During college I worked for a general contractor in Fargo doing mostly commercial remodel and tenant improvement work, and then worked for an owner’s representative firm doing MnSCU campus work.  During that time I had to deal with a number of disputes, and had to talk to a lawyer for the first time.  From there, I decided to go to law school with the intention of becoming a construction lawyer. With my background and passion for all things construction, it was a natural progression. I am passionate about the construction industry, and I am right where I belong.

Are you involved in any legal or community organizations? How does this involvement contribute to your practice? I have the distinct pleasure of being a member of the Minnesota Hispanic Bar Association, and I have also been a committee member for the Minnesota Construction Association for a couple of years now, and I believe that both of these distinct non-profit groups have given me insight into what my fellow attorneys are involved with legally, as well as a more nuanced understanding of what issues contractors navigate in today’s ever-changing legal landscape. 

What inspired you to become an attorney? Prior to becoming an attorney, I majored in journalism at the University of Minnesota and worked a reporter for several newspapers in the Twin Cities. When I started writing opinion pieces for a local newspaper, I discovered a passion for advocacy. That discovery started me on a journey towards attending law school, working as a litigator, and becoming an advocate for my clients. 

This year our practice groups will each have a month to be in the spotlight. For March, we are excited to highlight and share more on our Construction Practice Group.

We are excited to welcome attorney Michael Vetter to our team. Michael's background in civil litigation will be a great fit for our team. Welcome, Michael! 

Can you provide a brief overview of your legal background and areas of expertise? I am an experienced appellate lawyer. I clerked for more than two years at the Minnesota Court of Appeals. I have worked on nearly 50 appeals. I enjoy partnering with trial lawyers when matters go on appeal. What is one thing you wished more people knew about your practice? Appellate lawyers can make great co-counsel at trials. While the trial lawyers keep their eyes focused on winning the trial, appellate counsel can focus on setting the case up to win on appeal. I do this work—and enjoy it! What are some of your favorite cases to work on? Minnesota Supreme Court appeals. I have represented numerous parties and amici curiae in such appeals.

This week is Women in Construction Week (WIC). WIC Week has grown into a powerful way to highlight the contributions of women in the construction industry. This year's theme, 'Keys to the Future,' highlights the strength and knowledge of women shaping the construction industry's future. Thanks to our female construction attorneys Kafi Linville, Shannon Nelson, Perssis Meshkat, Beth Jenson Prouty, and Stephanie Kudrle Smodish for their dedication to the construction industry.

How do you approach building and maintaining strong client relationships? Building strong relationships with my clients is important to me. I believe I do this best by providing individual attention to each client and the needs of the applicable file. I have vast knowledge in handling Minnesota automobile claims, including first and third party cases, assessing and handling insurance coverage cases as well as class action litigation. I strive to ensure my clients have the latest information on Minnesota case law germane to their line of work as well as hands on training to make their job as a claims adjuster or manager more streamlined. My clients appreciate my amiable and compassionate personality and my willingness to always jump in, roll up my sleeves and help no matter the case, situation or time of day! 

What inspired you to become an attorney, and how did you choose your specific field of law? After law school, I clerked for the Minnesota Supreme Court for a year and then went to Arthur Chapman. I focused on writing complex motions and appeals across a variety of practice areas. One day, the firm was hiring for its Insurance Coverage Group. It initially didn’t even occur to me to apply until a partner sold me on the group, telling me it would fit my skill set of research, writing, and appeals. He was right! I hit the ground running with two appeals to the Minnesota Court of Appeals and one to the Eighth Circuit in my first year of coverage work.  

We are excited for you to meet attorney Selma Demirovic. Selma is joining our worker's compensation team.

This year our practice groups will each have a month to be in the spotlight. For February, we are excited to highlight and share more on our Insurance Coverage Practice Group.

What inspired you to become an attorney, and how did you choose your specific field of law? When I was growing up, no one in my family was a lawyer, but I always dreamed about going to law school. I loved to read, write, research, and argue. I didn’t know it then, but these are all skills used by an appellate lawyer! 

Medical malpractice legal team secures a favorable defense verdict.

This year our practice groups will each have a month to be in the spotlight. For January, We are excited to highlight and share more on our Appellate Practice Group.

Arthur, Chapman, Kettering, Smetak & Pikala, P.A. has announced the election of Christine W. Chambers, Ken J. Kucinski, Perssis Meshkat, and Shannon A. Nelson as shareholders at the firm.

We are excited for you to meet attorney Jennifer Augustin. Jennifer is joining our worker's compensation team and is licensed in both Minnesota and Wisconsin. 

Beth Jenson Prouty was interviewed in the CLM Magazine November issue on her insurance coverage practice. Beth shares her experiences, perspectives, and invaluable insights into the world of insurance coverage. Beth's expertise is a true asset to the industry, and her article in CLM Magazine is a testament to her dedication and accomplishments. Be sure to check out the November issue to gain valuable insights into the world of insurance coverage law and reach out to Beth with your insurance coverage questions.

Attorney Corey Bronczyk has been selected as an Associate Fellow of the Construction Lawyers Society of America (CLSA).  

We are excited to welcome Mack Marrin to Arthur Chapman. Mack’s practice focuses on representing clients in construction liability. Mack also has experience in premises liability and automobile law and representing individuals and businesses through all aspects of civil litigation.