Elizabeth P. Hanigan

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Elizabeth Hanigan took a slightly different path to law school.

While that’s not uncommon, hers is even more varied than most. While in college, she interned for Sen. Dick Lugar (R-Ind.), then worked in the White House under President George H.W. Bush. After graduating with a bachelor’s in Political Science, she sold textbooks for a while before going to work on former Gov. Tommy Thompson’s policy staff.

But after all that, she ended up where she had planned: law school. And after joining Foley & Lardner, she’s carved out a niche doing transactional law in the renewable energy market.

“I find it really rewarding to be a part of this industry,” Hanigan said.

When it came to choosing between transactional law or litigation, Hanigan said it was no contest for her.

“Lots of what I do is a puzzle, and figuring out the pieces to the puzzle,” she said. “I have not seen the inside of a courtroom since I was sworn in and don’t anticipate seeing the inside of a courtroom.”

But staying out of the courtroom is just fine with her. The opportunity to work on the transactional side is something that appeals to Hanigan and causes her to sum things up with one simple phrase:

“I just like my job.”

What was your most useful law school course?

Contracts.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?

Actually.

What word in the English language do you wish you had invented?

Reasonable.

What are you craving right now?

Sushi at a beach restaurant in Aruba.

Where and when are you happiest?

At the zoo with my two children and husband on a Saturday afternoon.

What famous person you would most like to have a drink with?

Bill Gates.

What is your favorite website and why?

Google — it is a great research tool.

Who is your favorite historical figure?

Sandra Day O’Connor

To what faults do you feel most indulgent?

Inability to say no to Reese’s peanut butter eggs on Easter.

What trait do you most like in others?

Dedication and commitment.