Bush zeroed in on litigation

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Brendan Bush was introduced to the law at an early age. His father – a plaintiff’s attorney – would often discuss his cases at the dinner table and encourage Bush and his siblings to ask questions.

“We were his focus group,” he said. “But beyond the cases, we talked a lot about justice and other legal topics. I definitely knew early on that I wanted to be a litigator.”

Bush, an associate at Hansen Reynolds in Milwaukee, achieved his goal. In his practice, he represents clients in complex personal-injury and corporate-litigation cases in both federal and state courts.

“Everyday I learn something new, whether it is about my client, the law, a business or myself,” Bush said. “There is always more to learn. I love learning about my clients’ businesses and how they work. I like to dive into the weeds and learn more about what they do.”

When working with his personal injury clients, Bush said it is important that he gets to know them and their families.

“I want to know about what their lives were like before the accident and after the accident,” he said. “I think that relationship is vital when working on a case. After the case is over, I stay in contact with them.”

Most lawyers with Bush’ experiences handle cases involving either commercial litigation or personal injuries, but he enjoys taking on both.

“The principles are the same, but they each require a different litigation style,” said Bush, adding that he appreciates that his bosses at Hansen Reynolds allow him to do both. “Commercial litigation is definitely meatier than personal-injury work.”

Bryan Cecil, another associate at Hansen Reynolds, admires the way Bush “effortlessly” works with coworkers, clients and opposing council.

“He is a thoroughly professional, hard-working and competent lawyer, who also is a pleasure to work with,” said Cecil, adding that, in six years of practice, Bush has established and maintained a solid group of clients.

As a litigator, Bush is no stranger to the courtroom. In 2013, Bush graduated from the Spence Trial Lawyers College. He was the youngest member of the class. He said he enjoys the “thrill” of going to court, but admitted it can put him in a place where he is less than comfortable.

“Trial work isn’t exactly easy, especially when you are a younger attorney going up against someone with more experience,” Bush said. “I am getting more comfortable, but I still feel every time I step into court I learn something.”