James Hansen is the CEO & Co-founder of Genesis Legal Group, a law firm specializing in family law and criminal defense. A serial entrepreneur with a background in banking, insurance, and digital marketing, James has a track record of building successful businesses through strategic hiring, digital client acquisition, and a client-first approach. In 2021, he co-founded Genesis Legal Group under Arizona’s new law allowing non-lawyer ownership of legal practices, and in under three years, he grew the firm to 23 attorneys and $10 million in revenue.

Breaking into the legal industry without a law degree isn’t easy, and leading a successful law firm as a non-lawyer might seem impossible. Yet, with the right strategies, mindset, and approach, even unconventional paths can lead to impressive milestones. So, what does it take for a non-lawyer to build a $10 million law firm from the ground up?

According to James Hansen, a visionary entrepreneur and a non-lawyer CEO of a law firm, it starts with understanding the client experience and creating processes that directly address client needs. He highlights that scaling a firm quickly requires a keen focus on hiring experienced attorneys, building a strong internal culture, and maintaining high service standards. These elements help not only in attracting clients but also in retaining top talent. By aligning his approach to legal services with clear goals and operational efficiency, James has been able to overcome challenges and establish a high-performing law firm.

In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen sits down with James Hansen, CEO & Co-founder of Genesis Legal Group, to discuss what it takes for a non-lawyer to run and lead a successful legal practice. James shares how he used digital marketing to drive client acquisition, the importance of intentional hiring for growth, and his philosophy on cultivating a team-focused culture. James also talks about the pivotal experiences that helped him scale the firm rapidly despite not having a traditional legal background.

Brian Beckcom is the Founding Partner and Owner of VB Attorneys, a personal injury law firm based in Houston, Texas. As a board-certified personal injury trial lawyer and recognized Texas Super Lawyer for 14 years in a row, Brian has secured multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements, earning his firm a reputation for litigating against major corporations and insurance companies. In addition to his legal work, Brian hosts the Lessons From Leaders podcast, showcasing esteemed guests and leadership insights. His unique background in computer science and philosophy informs his approach to law and has bolstered his firm's use of technology in law applications.

What happens when law intersects with the worlds of philosophy and technology? Can a background in these seemingly disparate fields give someone an edge in the courtroom or in running a successful business?

According to Brian Beckcom, a board-certified personal injury trial lawyer with over 20 years of experience, the key lies in a unique approach to problem-solving. He highlights that his dual degrees in computer science and philosophy allow him to think strategically and critically, whether dissecting a legal argument or analyzing data from a complex case. This combination of analytical thinking and ethical reasoning gives him an edge in both litigation and business management, enabling him to investigate, innovate, and adapt in ways that traditional methods may miss.

In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen sits down with Brian Beckcom, Founding Partner and Owner of VB Attorneys, to discuss how his background in philosophy and tech has influenced his approach to law. Brian shares his thoughts on the importance of strategic persistence in litigation, how technology like AI is reshaping the legal landscape, and why philosophy is a key tool for understanding legal ethics. Brian also shares insights from his Lessons From Leaders podcast and offers advice to aspiring lawyers.

Amy Petkovsek, Esq., is the Executive Director of the Community Law Center, Maryland's only legal services organization dedicated solely to strengthening neighborhoods and the nonprofit sector. With prior roles at Maryland Legal Aid, including as Deputy Chief Counsel, she boasts an extensive background in child advocacy and appellate law. Committed to empowering local communities and innovative leadership, she serves on several committees and boards, such as the University of Maryland, Carey School of Law, and Movable Feast. Amy is known for her "Flamingo Leadership" concept, which emphasizes the importance of standing out and supporting teamwork within the legal field.

Amy Petkovsek’s journey as an attorney began with a desire to help others, leading her to roles that focused on serving those in need, particularly children and underrepresented groups. But in a world where legal assistance can be hard to access, how did she tackle the challenges underserved communities face?

Legal representation not only solves individual matters but also shapes entire communities. Amy highlights how the rest of us might be unaware of the benefits derived from community law. She shares the impact of the Community Law Center’s legal advocacy and community engagement, from supporting vulnerable populations to advising neighborhoods on how to navigate school closures and property issues. Amy's dedication shines through as she talks about the responsibility of lawyers toward societal betterment and how her career path led her to impactful, mission-driven work. She discusses the importance of legal advocates focusing on communal well-being rather than individual cases. With an eye on the future, Amy describes the potential for remote courts and other innovative solutions to provide wider access to the justice system.

In this episode of 15 minutes, Chad Franzen hosts Amy Petkovsek, the Executive Director of the Community Law Center, about harnessing the law to transform communities. Amy outlines the impact of effectively listening to and legally empowering neighborhoods, innovative projects like “tools to save our schools,” and the importance of lawyers in promoting social justice. She also shares insights into the evolving legal landscape, including remote court sessions and AI’s role in broadening legal access.

Deena Buchanan is the Founding Partner of Buchanan Law Firm LLC, a firm specializing in personal injury and employment law. She has over two decades of legal experience and has handled wrongful death, catastrophic injury, and employment cases in more than 20 jurisdictions, including high-stakes litigation for large corporations and plaintiff representation in trucking accident cases. Deena is board-certified in trucking law by the National Board of Trial Advocates and is an active speaker at industry conferences. She is dedicated to mentoring young attorneys and advancing road safety through her legal work.

Trucking accidents are a complex and often misunderstood area of law, impacting countless lives each year. What does it take to advocate for road safety and mentor aspiring lawyers in this demanding field?

According to Deena Buchanan, a trucking attorney with years of high-stakes case experience, a commitment to road safety starts with a deep understanding of trucking law and the dedication to make a real difference on the highways. She highlights how essential it is for attorneys to cultivate empathy and vigilance, particularly when dealing with the aftermath of tragic accidents. Deena shares her hands-on approach to mentorship, from guiding associates through depositions to sharing her unique insights into trucking regulations, allows her to instill these values in young lawyers. By blending technical expertise with compassion, she believes lawyers can create meaningful change for both their clients and the community at large.

In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen sits down with Deena Buchanan, Founding Partner of Buchanan Law Firm LLC, to discuss her journey in trucking law and her mission to enhance road safety. They talk about Deena’s unique mentorship approach, how she trains young lawyers through real-world case preparation, and her insights on tackling trucking accident cases with empathy. Deena also gives practical advice on how attorneys can sharpen their skills by thoroughly analyzing evidence.

Thomas (Tom) Feher is the Founder and CEO of Feher Law APC, which specializes in litigating catastrophic injury, wrongful death, and employment cases throughout California. At 40, he has tried over 50 jury trials to verdict, earning him notable recognition, such as CAALA's Rising Star Award in 2018 and OCTLA's Young Gun Award in 2017. Tom, the son of immigrants, decided to become a lawyer, influenced by his father's work ethic and values. He has a background in psychology, philosophy, and political science and has cultivated his trial skills through relentless practice, improvisational theater, and mentorships within the legal community.

What does it take to win in the courtroom — skill, strategy, or something far more human? Could empathy and relentless dedication be the true driving forces behind legal success?

According to Tom Feher, an accomplished trial lawyer, empathy is the foundation of building trust with both clients and juries. He explains that understanding a client's personal story allows for more compelling advocacy rather than relying solely on facts and figures. Tom also highlights that dedication to honing his skills and committing fully to each case is essential for consistent success. Together, empathy and dedication drive courtroom victories and lasting relationships with clients.

In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen speaks with Tom Feher, Founder and CEO of Feher Law APC, to discuss the vital role of empathy and dedication in trial law. Tom explains how these principles enhance legal strategy, the importance of constant learning, and how they've contributed to his success in the courtroom. He also shares insights on building client trust and offers advice for aspiring trial lawyers.

Lauren Eagan is the Founder and CEO of Eagan Immigration, a law firm with offices in both the US and Costa Rica. Working with attorneys across the US, they specialize in all areas of immigration law. With over a decade of experience, Lauren has expanded her firm from a one-person operation working from a couch to a dedicated team of 80 people. She holds a profound connection with the Spanish-speaking community, fueled by her fluency in Spanish and extensive living experience in Mexico. Lauren is recognized for her innovative approach to social media marketing in the legal field and is deeply committed to creating a supportive and empowering company culture.

Immigration law presents unique challenges, especially when it involves reuniting families and providing security for those who have faced trauma. What does it take to offer meaningful, lasting solutions for clients in such critical circumstances? And how can an immigration law firm innovate to meet the diverse needs of people worldwide?

According to Lauren Eagan, a leading immigration attorney, the answer lies in combining empathy with creative problem-solving. She explains that her firm’s focus on humanitarian cases — like family-based petitions, visas for abuse victims, and naturalization — allows them to impact lives by reuniting families and securing futures. Lauren emphasizes that her team’s fluency in Spanish and deep understanding of immigration law have enabled them to build trust with clients from over 30 countries. Beyond legal services, her firm also offers innovative support, such as English language courses to help clients prepare for their citizenship exams. She wants to ensure every client feels fully empowered throughout the process.

In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen speaks with Lauren Eagan, Founder and CEO of Eagan Immigration, to discuss how her firm is making an impact in immigration law. They talk about the firm’s client-centered approach, the importance of cultural empathy in practicing law, and how innovative strategies help solve complex immigration challenges. Lauren also shares how political shifts impact immigration law and offers advice for aspiring immigration attorneys.

Christopher Wehrman is a Partner and Attorney at Katz, Goldstein & Warren, a matrimonial and family law firm based in Illinois. Since 2014, Chris has focused on family law matters and previously represented medical professionals in negligence cases. Although he primarily specializes in litigation, he has also undergone the Divorce Mediation Skills Training at Northwestern University. He employs this skill set to resolve issues without going to court when appropriate. Chris brings an athlete's discipline and resilience from his Big Ten athletic background and experience training for the Olympic Trials. Beyond the courtroom, Chris contributes to the running community as the Chicago Area Runners Association President and as a dedicated running coach.

Facing a legal battle can feel overwhelming, especially when emotions are running high and the stakes are personal. How can an attorney balance empathy with honesty while guiding clients toward the best possible outcome? And what can the discipline of endurance running teach us about the practice of law?

According to Christopher Wehrman, a seasoned family law attorney and endurance running coach, it all comes down to maintaining open, transparent communication and building trust through a team-based approach. He emphasizes that clients need to hear the hard truths to effectively navigate the legal system, even when it’s not what they want to hear. Drawing from his background as a competitive athlete, Chris highlights how discipline, strategy, and collaboration can shape success on both the court and the track. This mindset takes resilience and adaptability as you help clients and athletes maximize their potential.

In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen sits down with Christopher Wehrman, Partner and Attorney at Katz, Goldstein & Warren, to discuss how his competitive drive shapes his approach to family law. He talks about maintaining transparency with clients during trying times, developing strategies for resolving disputes outside of litigation, and the impact of technology on the legal process. Chris also shares his advice on training endurance athletes to achieve peak performance.

Candise Shanbron is a Managing Partner at Cernitz Law, a property damage and personal injury law firm in Florida. Candise is a dedicated property insurance lawyer who started her career representing insurance companies before passionately advocating for policyholders throughout Florida since 2008. Born in Taiwan and holding a JD from the University of Miami Law School, she brings a unique bicultural perspective to her practice. Her accolades include the 2022 Elite Lawyer and Lawyers of Distinction awards.

Winning an insurance case might seem like a straightforward application of legal principles, but there’s more beneath the surface. What if the key to success wasn’t just about understanding the law but about how you navigate relationships, attention to detail, and the human factors involved in the process? What else could determine the outcome of your case outside the courtroom?

According to Candise Shanbron, a seasoned property insurance attorney with years of experience on both sides of the industry, winning an insurance case involves far more than just legal expertise. She highlights that understanding the nuances of relationships, especially with opposing counsel and insurance adjusters, can be critical to a case’s success. Candise emphasizes that while some attorneys may overlook key details or rush through the motions, true success often lies in painstakingly reviewing contracts and anticipating challenges before they arise. This holistic approach allows her to navigate complex issues and deliver results where others might falter.

In this episode of 15 Minutes, host Chad Franzen sits down with Candise Shanbron, Managing Partner at Cernitz Law, to discuss how winning an insurance case requires more than just legal knowledge. They talk about the importance of building relationships in the legal field, how attention to detail can make or break a case, and why having a sense of humor in the workplace is crucial for maintaining balance.