James Snoxell retired from Henningson & Snoxell, Ltd. on April 30, 2024. Jim has seen the firm grow in size, capability, and culture since joining in 1982. But its goal, shared by attorneys, paralegals, and support staff alike, has remained constant: to serve clients with integrity, responsibility, and utmost concern for their needs.

Creating a Culture That Cares

Jim joined with partner L. David Henningson at the one-year-old firm in 1982. The pair shared a vision for an ethical law firm that put clients’ needs first, and they quickly set about searching for likeminded individuals to bring aboard. For Henningson & Snoxell, strength of character has always been valued alongside technical skills and experience.

Jim and David also sought to build a full-service firm that could meet the varied needs of all their clients, from individuals to large businesses. They brought in proficient attorneys who focused on specific areas of law, meaning a client could always speak with a knowledgeable professional, no matter their needs. Every team member played to their strengths, collaborating to ensure the best results. This team-oriented, client-focused environment continues to this day.

Growing Beyond

Jim has seen the firm adapt to many changes in technology and the evolving needs of clients over the past 42 years. But he is especially pleased with the positive changes Henningson & Snoxell has achieved in the workplace. Interaction in the office is more causal than it was originally, leading to a culture of camaraderie where everyone is encouraged to do their best work.

“I genuinely like and enjoy being with each of the other attorneys in the firm,” Jim said. “I respect them, and I trust them.”

Henningson & Snoxell has also grown beyond the strict hierarchical structure that was once the norm for law firms. Paralegals, support staff, and attorneys alike are respected and expected to contribute their thoughts, knowledge, and suggestions for improving the firm’s services. Clients routinely meet with different people, taking advantage of the wide range of expertise the firm offers.

“It’s made for a very level environment,” Jim said. “I can be critiqued by a law clerk or by the newest attorney in the firm if they see me doing something that’s not as good as it could be. And that has been a tremendous benefit for the firm, and it increases collegiality as well as the end result.”

Looking to the Future

Jim is confident in the firm’s future and the leadership that is in place for the coming years. Henningson & Snoxell has expanded greatly in size, sophistication, and the range of clients it is able to help, but there is always room for further growth.

“We still have the desire to continue to grow, continue to improve, and continue to be the best possible law firm that we can and do the best job we can for our clients,” Jim said. “That objective has never changed.”

He expects and encourages his colleagues to continue to honor the fundamental principles that have always guided the firm—to treat everyone well and to provide the best service possible.

In his retirement, Jim looks forward to having a little more time and flexibility to enjoy his hobbies and spend time with his community, church, and family. He is also excited to watch Henningson & Snoxell continue to grow and has nothing but hope and confidence in the firm’s ability to deliver excellent service to clients.