Laurie Schmidt

I still remember my very first class of law school. It was torts (personal injury).  I had my book, I had my laptop, I was ready to learn. And learn I did, two of the most important lessons in my career.  There was an online reading assignment posted prior to the class that I had not been aware of.  As I sat, sweating in my seat, praying to any and everything NOT be called on, I heard my professor say “Ms. Schmidt”.  Our professor required us to stand when called. As I stood, I’ll never forget the question. It was regarding liability and somehow, my book was open to the exact page and the bolded heading directed me quickly to the answer.  Saved for the moment, but I learned two things- 1. Always be prepared and 2. I’m going to love the law.

I have never stopped loving the law.  There have been times in which I have questioned the effectiveness or fairness of certain cases or issues; but the idea that we can build our jurisprudence on the arguments of prior cases is something magical to me.

When I founded this firm, I wanted to build a culture that brought about excellence and curiosity in the law. I believe with this focus the ultimate client experience will be exceptional.  In building this firm, I have often draw on experiences from my parents.  Both of whom had the fortune of finding their passion in their career (not law, I’m the only lawyer in the family).  I saw the joy of doing what you loved and love what you were doing. 

I received my Bachelor of Science in Finance from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and graduated Magna Cum Laude from Whittier College of Law in 2006.  Having a background in finance has been very advantageous for complex and high asset divorce matters. 

I am admitted to both the California State Bar (2007) and Colorado State Bar (2012).  Funny story, the year I took the California Bar (2006) there was a documentary “A Lawyer Walks into a Bar” that was being filmed.  I was not part of the documentary. In the opening scene, there is a shot of all the bar examiners walking out of the convention center, looking tired, defeated, and worn after three days of brutal testing, except one smiling face, that would be me.  I was done and proud of my work. Months later I learned I had passed.

Prior to establishing this firm, I served as Deputy District Attorney for the County of Riverside in California.  I always said this provided me a strong foundation for trial advocacy.  Given me the ability to break down a case, tell a story, and properly litigate evidentiary matters.

I am married to a carefree and fun-loving man.  Together we have two furry friends, Rusty and Lulu. We are avid supporters of We Don’t Waste (local charity committed to ending food waste and hunger) and St. Jude’s Hospital. I love hiking, skiing, and generally enjoying the outdoor life that Colorado offers.

Bar Membership

  • Colorado

  • California (inactive)

Education

  • Whittier College of Law- Juris Doctorate in Law and Certificate of International Law

  • University of Nebraska- Lincoln. Bachelor of Science in Finance

  • ITESM, certificate Spanish

  • National College for DUI defense certificate

Professional Memberships & Affiliations

  • Colorado Bar Association

  • Family Law Division of CBA

  • Colorado Criminal Defense Bar

  • Colorado Woman’s Bar Association

Awards

  • DUI/DWI 10 Best- American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys (2016)

  • Top 40 Lawyers Under 40 – American Society of Legal Advocates (2014)

  • 10 Best- American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys (2014)

Publications & Presentations

  • Misdemeanor sentencing reform- CCDBA, Denver, CO (2021)

  • Demystifying the State’s Expert, CCDBA, DUI Conference, 2018

  • Presenting Your Case in Court, 2012

  • Developmentally challenged adults in criminal courts, 2011