Jackie M. Kinder, 39

Practice areas: Insurance law, premises liability and construction law

Law school: Saint Louis University

Jackie Kinder says the best career advice she ever received noted the importance of putting in the time necessary to learn the profession.

It is guidance she clearly took to heart. Recognized for her civil litigation defense work, Kinder has developed both a reputation as a strong advocate for her clients and a track record of success in her cases. In 2011, she was listed by Missouri Lawyers Weekly for a Top Defense Verdict in the state for her work on Starkloff v. Famous Five Theatres.

A former clerk for state appeals court Judge Kathianne Knaup Crane, she has practiced for more than a decade at Brown & James where she has distinguished herself in cases related to bad faith insurance matters and personal injury in connection with premises liability and construction cases.

What is your biggest accomplishment this year?

I tried a case this year that could have resulted in my client, a small business owner, going out of business and the result of the trial was such that they were able to stay in business.

What has been your favorite moment as an attorney?

After any good result, especially a trial result, the response from a client, whether it be a hug or handshake, is a great moment.

What inspired you to get involved in the legal profession?

I do not have any attorneys in my family, but I was always interested in the law and enjoy writing. When I was in college a professor told me journalism school was the best preparation for law school, so I decided to pursue a legal career.