2023 Up & Coming Awards: Garrett Hunkins, 32

Attorney, Rouse Frets White Goss Gentile Rhodes, Kansas City

Practice Areas: Commercial litigation, white collar criminal defense

Law School: University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law

From an early age, Garrett Hunkins was fascinated with legal dramas in movies and TV, and books ignited his interest. His participation in county government days and programs like Missouri Boys State and the Sophomore Pilgrimage not only helped him realize what lawyers actually do, but also solidified his interest in practicing law.

Today, Hunkins litigates complex criminal and civil cases. He helps corporations, organizations and individuals navigate high-stakes litigation, investigations and regulatory matters. He works diligently to find creative solutions to his client’s problems.

“We recently secured compassionate release for a client who had spent more than ten years in federal custody,” Hunkins says. “The feeling I had while reading the compassionate release order was surreal. Amid other victories, the knowledge that I played a role in reuniting a client with their family stands out as one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.”

In 2023, Hunkins and his wife, Megan, welcomed their first child. “Navigating the journey of parenthood and striving to be the best father I can be has been a significant personal achievement,” he says.

What is the best career advice you have received?

Whom you work for is as important as where you work. The presence of a supportive mentor, supervising attorney or partner can truly shape the course of your career.

What advice do you have for young lawyers?

Learn to “know thyself.” Early on, as a summer associate and a young lawyer, I sometimes found myself expending energy trying to mold myself into someone that I thought I should be, rather than embracing who I inherently am. Once I started embracing my strengths and acknowledging my weaknesses, I feel l that I became a better lawyer.

What is something about you that would surprise people?

I grew up in a small town in northwest Missouri, and I was the first in my family to attend college.