2008 40 Under 40 Honoree: Michael Textor

He’s a frequent lecturer on numerous construction-related topics – sometimes for other attorneys, but not always.

“In January, my firm sponsored a seminar where I spoke to approximately 100 architects and contractors about the new changes to major (American Institute of Architects) contracts,” Textor says.

His reputation, he adds, has brought business.

“A lot of my work comes from existing clients and other lawyers,” Textor says. “I feel like we’ve done a good job of establishing a good reputation and that I am ‘the guy’ in this area. Referrals are the lifeblood of the business.”

In the process of sharing his expertise, Textor says he always learns something.

“I like to talk,” he says. “Whenever you sit down and prepare some materials, you always learn more than you end up teaching. It gives you an opportunity to summarize some of this material that you can use in practice.”

Textor says he likes sharing war stories and encouraging builders to manage liability on the front end. Among his proudest accomplishments, he lists positive trial outcomes for his clients.

Outside the courtroom, Textor is active with Springfield Contractors Association, serving on its scholarship committee. He’s also involved with Missouri Bar Association’s construction law committee, having previously served as legislative chairman.

In 2004, Textor was asked to restart the construction law class at Missouri State University. He was the only attorney invited to participate with architects, contractors and business owners on the Construction and Design Task Force, providing recommendations to Springfield Public Schools Superintendent Norm Ridder.

He also was part of a panel of contractors, construction managers, architects and subcontractors who participated in a panel discussion assembled at the request of MSU to determine which form of contract procurement would work best for a new arena. Textor says MSU used information presented to retain the construction manager for JQH Arena, now under construction.

Double Play

Birth date: Feb. 12, 1970

Family: My beautiful and brilliant wife (is) Hannah Joy Textor, a commercial Realtor with Maples Properties. Our daughter, Micah, is 11, and our son, Samuel, is 8. Both of them have a zest for life and knowledge that consistently brings joy to my life.

Philosophy to live/work by: I’m a perpetual optimist. Perpetual optimism is contagious. Obviously, people need to be realistic; however, it is important to try and find the good in every situation.

In a fantasy world, which professional sport would you play? Basketball, in the NBA.

Information accurate at the time of the honor.[[In-content Ad]]