In the article “Surfing and Skiing Make Me a Better Lawyer,” part of Law360’s “My Hobby Makes Me a Better Lawyer” expert analysis series, litigation partner Brian Claassen offers insight into how his favorite pastimes have helped develop his skills as an attorney throughout his career. Claassen discusses several key lessons he has learned through his lifelong passion for surfing and skiing and how those lessons have translated in the courtroom.
As a litigator who handles high-stakes patent and trade secret cases, Claassen credits his hobbies with helping him to “thrive in that high-pressure environment and deliver excellent results for our clients.” He maintains that while his love for surfing and skiing predated his legal career by decades, “Immersing myself in the ocean and mountains hones skills that make me a better advocate and provides a fresh perspective into my legal practice.”
Among the skills Claassen attributes to his longtime hobbies are developing strong mentor relationships, being prepared, remaining calm in difficult situations, and moving to a backup plan when needed.
“Of course, these skills are not unique to surfing and skiing,” Claassen writes. “I’ve really enjoyed learning how lawyers enhance their legal practices with all sorts of hobbies. I recognize in their stories the same sort of enthusiasm that my clients express when talking about their passion for innovation, and I strive to apply that same passion to my work.”
Read the full article here.
