Ozarks Profile: Bill Hart

Tell us about your firm.

Husch & Eppenberger is a Midwestern law firm with more than 275 attorneys in four states and seven cities. The firm was established in 1922 and prides itself in providing creative, focused, cost-effective representation for its clients which include individuals; local, regional and national businesses; financial institutions; charitable and governmental organizations. We are engaged in a broad-based business and litigation practice both firmwide and in Springfield, where we have 21 lawyers.

What attracted you to law as a profession?

It all started with debating in high school and college. I enjoyed preparing a position on a topic and trying to convince people it was correct. I still enjoy doing that and, hopefully, the positions are correct. That makes the convincing easier.

What prepared you for your position?

I got a wonderful education at Drury and Duke, but my real preparation for practicing law came from the senior partners of the firm that hired me, Jack Curtis, E.C. Curtis and Dick Farrington. They were first-class lawyers and patient teachers.

What types of cases do you handle most often?

I primarily handle business transactions, including real estate development, commercial financings, and asset purchases and sales. I also handle corporate and partnership matters, including public offerings.

What are some of the challenges you face in your practice?

I'm challenged daily by creative, bright clients who have wonderful business proposals and expect me to help them work out the details. It's fun trying to keep up with the changes in the law and how they relate to our clients' needs.

Tell us about your family.

I have two boys. Jeffrey and his wife, Hollie, are both lawyers and are living and practicing in Charlotte, N.C. Michael has just graduated from medical school and is in his first year of residency in Winston Salem, N.C.

What hobbies do you enjoy?

I enjoy photography, sailing, hiking, reading and listening to music.

Did you ever consider a different career?

I always thought it would be fun to be a National Geographic photographer, but I suspect I ended up where I belonged.