Geoffrey S. Trotier

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As a sixth year associate, attorney Geoffrey S. Trotier got the chance many never get in their entire legal careers — a chance to argue a case before the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals.

The labor and employment lawyer not only survived the scrutiny of Judge Richard Posner, but came away victorious.

“It was a little intimidating and coming out of it, I thought I just mumbled my way through it,” Trotier said. “I got a little more confident when I found out that we prevailed.”

The Davis & Kuelthau attorney is used to performing in front of a tough crowd.

Prior to law school, Trotier freelanced as French horn player and earned several musical degrees.

While on the road he would frequently tune in to CNN, and that got him thinking about the social impact he could have as a lawyer.

“I remember thinking, I’m a horn player, there’s not much I can do,” he said. “So I went to the library, got an LSAT book and applied to law school.”

How would your mother describe you in one word?

Self-disciplined. I had to call and ask. Of course, she couldn’t stick to the rules and picked a hyphenate.

What was your most useful law school course?

Legal writing — you learn to build your argument and communicate it efficiently and effectively in this class. I think it should be incorporated in each year of law school.

What song is on heavy rotation on your iPod?

Brahms’ Violin Concerto, with Jascha Heifetz. I’m a nerd.

What is your greatest fear?

Claustrophobia — as much as I love Tarantino films, there are certain parts of Kill Bill that I can’t watch.

If you hadn’t become a lawyer, what would you have done?

I was a musician before going to law school, so I guess that’s the obvious answer. Or a marine biologist. I have layers.

What is your greatest extravagance?

Really good ingredients.

Where would you most like to live?

Actually, I really like living in Milwaukee. It’s culturally alive, and at least 3 seasons are really beautiful.