June 2025 - Volume 13, Issue 52 | | |
I recently had the privilege of attending a remarkable legal conference in Singapore, an event that brought together attorneys from around the globe. It was more than just an opportunity to learn; it was a chance to build meaningful connections, discuss the future of law firm leadership, and expand our law firm’s ability to serve our clients wherever their legal needs take them.
One of the unique benefits of attending this conference was the shared camaraderie and expertise of fellow members of Mackrell International, a leading global network of independent law firms, of which FGMC is a member. As one of the many law firms around the world proud to be a Member of this organization, this annual conference is invaluable in connecting with other member firms’ attorneys. This network allows us to provide our clients with trusted legal support virtually anywhere—bridging jurisdictions and practice areas to ensure seamless service.
As attorneys, we often encounter situations where a client needs expertise beyond our jurisdiction, whether it’s resolving a dispute abroad or navigating international regulatory complexities. Building trusted relationships with attorneys across the country and around the world is essential to providing comprehensive support for our clients.
I had the chance to meet and interact with legal professionals from an array of practices, ranging from real estate to international intellectual property. The discussions were insightful, and it was fascinating to see how different countries tackle similar challenges. Sharing ideas and perspectives with these attorneys made me feel part of a truly global legal community.
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One of the most enriching aspects of the conference was the focus on law firm leadership. In a series of panel discussions, I joined peers to explore strategies for adapting to a rapidly evolving legal landscape. We discussed everything from harnessing technology to streamline services to cultivating innovation within our firms.
Networking was a cornerstone of the event, and not just during formal sessions. Some of the most meaningful connections I made happened informally—whether walking through the iconic Gardens by the Bay or riding the tram through the animal enclosures at the Singapore Zoo. Conversations in these relaxed settings form the foundation for lasting professional relationships.
I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to attend the conference. At FGMC, we are committed to staying connected to the global legal community, and my time in Singapore is a testament to that dedication. I returned home with not just a broader network for our law firm, but a renewed sense of purpose and a wealth of ideas to enhance how we support our clients. I’m confident that the relationships I built in Singapore within the Mackrell network will allow us to provide even stronger, more comprehensive legal services—whether our clients are facing challenges locally or internationally.
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Danny and John have been selected to the prestigious Denver Top 100 list. This recognition is a result of their exceptional skill, dedication, and commitment to excellence in the legal field. Attorneys on the Top 100 list are ranked top of the list in the Super Lawyer selection process, which evaluates peer recognition and professional achievement.
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FGMC would like to congratulate our 2025 Super Lawyers* and Rising Stars**. Fifteen FGMC lawyers were counted among the best in Colorado in the latest edition of Thomson Reuters’ Super Lawyers magazine.
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Chambers USA has released its 2025 law firm and attorney rankings list in the United States. This year, FGMC partner, John Chanin, was again ranked on this exclusive and prestigious list for his practice in White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations-related litigation. The firm was also honored with a ranking, reflecting its deep experience and resources in this practice area. Chambers USA is the leading legal ranking agency. Chambers ranks America’s leading attorneys who have been identified as the best in their field by their peers and clients based on interviews with attorneys and clients.
FGMC’s White Collar and Government Investigations practice has decades of experience representing businesses and individuals in civil, regulatory, and criminal investigations and proceedings.
Congratulations John Chanin!
| | Danny Foster Speaks on Antisemitic Attack in Boulder | | | |
Lauren E. M. Thompson
This article seeks to challenge transactional attorneys to shift their approach to partnership agreements to try to better equip their clients for the potential that the relationship does not go as planned. A partnership is not unlike a marriage in business, and in that respect, a client’s partnership agreement is their prenuptial agreement. When viewed as a fundamental resource to safeguard a client’s interests in the event of divorce, the need for drafters to focus on clear mechanisms to achieve that objective becomes all the more apparent.
I am a civil litigator with a focus on partnership, membership, and shareholder disputes in closely held entities.1 That means I get the privilege of Monday morning quarterbacking the work of transactional attorneys when the honeymoon phase is long since over, the client’s relationship with their partners has run its course, and the parties are now at each other’s throats in ways no mere mortal could have possibly anticipated. In 15 years of practice, I’ve seen loopholes, carveouts, and ambiguities exploited in so many ways that drafting around almost any of these scenarios would have taken months that excited clients would never waste, and thousands of dollars that frugal clients would never spend, particularly when launching a new venture.
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We are pleased to announce that Brian McQuinn has joined our firm as a corporate attorney. Brian brings nearly 10 years of experience counseling clients on mergers and acquisitions, venture capital, and private financing. He has led transactions ranging from $250,000 to $40 million, structured deals using convertible instruments and equity, and advised on cross-border secured financings. Brian also serves as outside general counsel to growth-focused businesses and has deep experience negotiating complex commercial agreements. Brian is a Colorado native, and he earned his J.D. from the University of Denver Sturm College of Law, where he received a Certificate in Corporate and Commercial Law. Brian takes a practical, business-minded approach to legal challenges. We’re proud to welcome him to our team.
Email: bmcquinn@fostergraham.com
| | | What Makes FGMC Stand Apart? | |
Lindsey Idelberg
Associate
What I enjoy most about working at Foster Graham Milstein & Calisher is the truly collegial and collaborative environment. It’s a place where people support each other, share ideas freely, and are genuinely invested in each other's success. The attorneys here are not only highly skilled, but also creative thinkers who bring practical, thoughtful solutions to the table to tackle complex issues together.
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Elliot Fladen
Special Counsel
"Good collection of intelligent attorneys who are passionate about getting positive and economical results for the Firm’s clients."
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Mitchell A. Ukropina
During my first two years of law school, I talked to many attorneys. Whenever I notice someone has been at the same job for an extended period, I ask them why. Lateral movement and job-hopping have become far more common in the legal industry. Prospective attorneys value knowing what makes people want to stay in the same place. They always respond with the same answer: “the people.”
I used to ask college admissions counselors a similar question: What makes your school different? One counselor told me a story about the ten colleges in their region that got together to improve their institutions. They were all asked to put one word in a hat to answer the same question. Each counselor I talked to and each counselor at the conference answered the same: “the people.”
I started at FGMC in August of 2024 with the Land Use and Real Estate team, without much substantive legal knowledge in land use or real estate. As I returned the work product, I received significant, legitimate feedback on how to improve. By my second semester this summer, I was given responsibilities I never would have imagined as a 2L in law school. Being entrusted with legitimate work with real consequences speaks to how attorneys at FGMC treat clerks. It’s not just busy work. Attorneys are invested in the success of clerks and the development of their legal careers.
| | | Exit and Elevate! Maximize Your Business Exit and Build Enduring Wealth | | | |
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On Wednesday, April 23, 2025, business owners and professionals gathered for an engaging and informative “lunch and learn” hosted by attorneys from Foster Graham Milstein & Calisher, LLP and investment professionals from Hirtle Callaghan. The session provided practical insights into preparing for a successful business exit while aligning personal financial and estate planning for life beyond the sale.
Attendees gained valuable knowledge through exploring each stage of a business sale—from building the right advisory team to ensuring family goals are met post-transaction. The event wrapped up with thoughtful Q&A and dynamic conversation, making it both educational and highly interactive.
Given the strong interest and positive feedback, we’re excited about the possibility of hosting another session in the future. If you’d like to be notified about upcoming events like this, please contact our firm at 303.333.9810.
Don't miss the next opportunity to plan your future with confidence!
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Evan Husney
Partner
Foster Graham Milstein & Calisher, LLP
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Andrew Ramsey
Director
Investment Officer
Hirtle Callaghan
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Brian Ilsley, CFA, CFP®
Vice President
Portfolio Manager
Hirtle Callaghan
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Contact Us
360 S Garfield St, Suite 600
Denver, CO 80209
Phone: (303) 333-9810 Fax: (303) 333-9786
Website: fostergraham.com
FGMC is a Colorado law firm serving most personal and business legal needs.
We offer clients the power of a large law firm with the personal service of a boutique law firm.
Practice areas include:
Auto Accident / Personal Injury Law, Appellate Practice, Business / Corporate / Finance / Mergers & Acquisitions,
Criminal Defense, Employment Law, Estate Planning / Tax Planning, Government Affairs, Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense, Land Use And Real Estate, Law Enforcement Representation, Litigation
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