Joseph L. Johnson

Johnson, a 1994 graduate of the University of Tulsa, said his work includes, “counseling clients in matters pertaining to patent, trademark, copyright and trade secret law, as well as general legal matters, including litigation.”

In 1998 Johnson opened the Springfield office of Lathrop & Gage with Randell Wallace. The office has grown from two lawyers and two staff members to 22 lawyers and a staff of about 30.

Johnson said he uses a piece of advice he has heard many times to serve his clients.

“Treat every client with the same respect, regardless of whether they are your largest or smallest client and regardless of how they choose to treat you,” he said. “I don’t really remember who first said it, but I’ve heard it many times and it always rings true and works well.”

Johnson said he enjoys writing and publishing articles pertaining to intellectual property law. He also works to educate local businesses.

“I speak to local companies and organizations about protecting their rights and growing their business by use of strategic intellectual property planning and use several times a year,” he said.

Johnson and his wife, Cindy, have two daughters, Cabrini and Ella Camille. “They let me work as much as needed, but make me balance the work with fun, friendship and personal space,” he said. “Without them, I wouldn’t have lasted long in the legal world.”

Johnson is a volunteer board member for Legal Services of Southern Missouri. He was a member of Leadership Springfield Class XVI. He’s also a committee member for the Springfield Chapter of Ducks Unlimited.

Born: 1967

What do you feel is your most important accomplishment to date? Surrounding myself with good colleagues, great friends and a wonderful family.

What's your favorite Web site? I'm slightly addicted to eBay. I spend most of my online time at www.uspto.gov

Quote to live by: “Important principles may and must be inflexible.” – Abraham Lincoln