Emily focuses her practice in the areas of trademark and copyright law. She counsels clients on prosecution, portfolio management, clearance, enforcement, and dispute resolution, helping businesses protect and defend their valuable brand assets.

Ryan is a paralegal in the firm’s Transactional Practice Group. He performs detailed due diligence for commercial and agricultural real estate transactions throughout the country, with an emphasis in: Arkansas, Illinois, Idaho, Indiana, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Nebraska, Ohio, Oregon, and Wisconsin. Ryan conducts property research, ALTA/NSPS land survey analysis, title and policy review, and is responsible for drafting a wide range of transactional and closing documents.

Lucas counsels employers on a range of benefit arrangements including health and welfare plans and qualified retirement plans. He advises plan sponsors and fiduciaries on compliance with applicable laws, including ERISA, the Internal Revenue Code, HIPAA, COBRA, and other regulations. Lucas also has experience helping clients respond to compliance audits by the Department of Labor. Additionally, Lucas assists clients with drafting and reviewing employee policies, handbooks, and other employee documents.

With over 25 years of intellectual property experience in the legal industry, Janet brings a strong background to her role as an IP administrator. Familiar with all aspects of patent, trademark, and copyright processes, she has assisted with every step of portfolio and record management.

Nancy is a partner in the Real Estate group. Her more than 30 years of experience covers a broad range of real estate law, including assisting clients in purchases, sales and leases of property, and development and zoning work; representing borrowers and lenders in real estate loans; assisting in foreclosures and workouts; advising on questions of condominium law; negotiating construction and architects' contracts; and assisting in real estate litigation.

Reza focuses his practice in the area of bankruptcy law, assisting financially distressed businesses and creditors. Prior to joining Michael Best, Reza served as a judicial law clerk for the Honorable Catherine J. Furay in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Western District of Wisconsin. While earning his J.D., Reza gained additional experience as a law clerk and a Summer Associate at Michael Best.

In her role at Michael Best, Julie drives strategic growth and business development initiatives for the firm’s Raleigh office. With a background in growth and development in the professional services industry, more than a decade of experience as a practicing lawyer, and deep roots in the Raleigh business community, Julie identifies growth opportunities for Michael Best and facilitates mutually beneficial business partnerships.

Aaron leverages his background and connections in Illinois state government to help clients further their business objectives. Before joining Michael Best Strategies, he held influential positions in Illinois’ Office of the Governor, Department of Juvenile Justice, and State Police.