Win-win: Murphy does his part to help business owners

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Running a business is challenging enough, but throw in legal issues and the headaches can mount.

That’s where Shaughnessy Murphy of Ruder Ware in Eau Claire comes in. He views his job to help companies with legal concerns so managers can just worry about the business.

“I really try to do what I can so business owners can focus on their business and not all of the legal-ease,” Murphy said.

That can be anything from helping businesses with their transactions or counseling clients through different decisions and possible ramifications.

“I really enjoy being an attorney. It’s fun and challenging,” Murphy said. “I really hone in on helping clients with their needs.”

Murphy didn’t start out wanting to be an attorney. He comes from a family of doctors and thought he would follow that route, but discovered chemistry wasn’t his strong suit.

“I really wanted a career where I could help other people, and in the law you get a great opportunity to do that,” Murphy said. “I enjoy helping business owners with their needs, such as flushing out their ideas into practical terms so they can see what it may lead to.”

One of the best parts of being an attorney is working on deals and projects that have a lasting impact, Murphy said.

“I’m working on a new development project here in Eau Claire that will be a part of the community for my children – and if I have grandchildren for them too,” he said. “That’s the kind of lasting impact I like that my work can have.”

Before joining Ruder Ware, Murphy worked in Washington, D.C. — a Wisconsin native, he and his wife decided they wanted to settle back here to raise their family — as a Congressional aide counseling House members on public policy issues. He said that Washington connection helps him keep up with the regulatory changes many businesses face.

“The regulatory environment is always changing, and if I can help business owners get through that, they can focus on what they need to do,” Murphy said.

Wisconsin Law Journal: What makes your work important to you?
Shaughnessy Murphy: I believe a good lawyer can help shape and grow a community. Whether it’s helping with a development project, consulting with a large employer, or making sure a family business can be successfully passed to the next generation. My community is important to me because I grew up here, my family is here and I want it thrive.

WLJ: Who is your hero in the legal field?
Murphy: Thomas Jefferson, drafter of the Declaration of Independence. No more powerful words were ever written so eloquent and succinctly.

WLJ: What do you do outside of work to deal with the stress from the office?
Murphy: I enjoy spending time with my family and playing golf.

WLJ: What’s one thing many people get wrong about what you do?
Murphy: Some people think lawyers fight all day; when really, most of the deals I’m involved in have two willing parties who are looking to both benefit. Yes there are adversaries, but in the deal they both usually win.

WLJ: What’s your favorite memory from law school?
Murphy: Probably 1L finals, when that iconic paper chase-like feeling sets in when you know what you need to do and you just do it.

WLJ: Is there a certain case that stands out to you?
Murphy: It’s not my case, but Marbury v. Madison, is obviously a big one.