Eric S. Schmitt | Public Service

Eric S. Schmitt, 39, Partner, Lathrop & Gage, St. Louis

Practice areas: Business and real estate litigation

Law school: Saint Louis University

To say Eric Schmitt is an up and coming lawyer is a bit of an understatement. He is, after all, midway through his second term as a state senator for St. Louis County who has already declared his candidacy for state treasurer in 2016.  He also currently chairs the Senate Committee on Jobs, Economic Development and Local Government and is the majority caucus chairman.

In the past two years, Schmitt played a major role in passing a tax cut bill that put the Republican-led Legislature on a collision course with Gov. Jay Nixon, culminating with lawmakers’ recent vote to override Nixon’s veto and allow the tax cuts to go through.

As the father of a son with special needs, Schmitt also made an impassioned plea on the Senate floor this past session for a bill allowing the use of hemp extract to treat epilepsy. The bill passed with overwhelming support and was signed into law.  He previously led the charge for autism insurance reform, helping thousands of children with autism across the state receive services.

Schmitt has served on boards for DeSmet Jesuit High School, Nurses for Newborns Foundation, St. Louis Crisis Nursery and Kirkwood Parents as Teachers Program. He has also served as chairman of the Young Lawyer Section Council of The Missouri Bar, and spearheaded a statewide fundraiser benefiting Big Brothers-Big Sisters and created a Special Needs Advocacy Task Force.

What is your greatest accomplishment to date?

Marrying my wife, Jaime, and having a wonderful family. Being able to live out the motto of being a man for others and serve my community. Getting the chance to represent the people in the county where I grew up and where my family resides, and to fight for the things I believe in, including economic growth and individuals with disabilities.

Who is your legal hero?

John King. He’s a very accomplished lawyer, but more importantly, his treatment of others and being respected by his peers.

What simple piece of advice do you have for young lawyers?

Run for office. We need more lawyers to represent. Just don’t run against me!