2016 40 Under 40 Honoree: Danielle Kincaid, 31

Danielle Kincaid is an upwardly mobile professional who recognizes the climb has as much to do with what she gives back as it does with her personal success. In the two years Kincaid has been in Springfield, she’s become passionately involved with projects and organizations such as the Mini Law School for the Public, Child Advocacy Center’s Young Advocates Council, Missouri State University’s Public Affairs Academy and Legal Services of Southern Missouri’s pro bono and judicare program. Kincaid is a graduate of the 2014 Missouri Bar Association Leadership Academy and an active member of the Springfield, state and national bar associations, as well as Southern Missouri Women Lawyers.

What was your first job? My mother and grandparents owned a heating and air conditioning business; I would answer telephone calls and help with invoicing during the summer.  My first “real” job was with Subway; I was a sandwich artist throughout high school.

What was your professional “aha” moment? The first time I got a hug from a client.  My clients’ appreciation is a constant reminder of why I do what I do: to make a positive difference in my clients’ lives.

How many times do you hit the snooze button in the morning? At least 10 times.

What did you learn the hard way? Trust your instinct. If something does not feel right, don’t do it. If something is not going the way you want it to go, speak up. Sometimes this means you will be the only person in the room advocating for an unpopular position, but it also means you’ll have a clear conscious.