Aaron Haar '13 and Kendra Haar (née Kisling) ‘13

BOTH: We attended high school together in Arizona and eventually reconnected after college. We chose to attend Boyd when we decided to pursue legal careers. We took many of the same classes together in law school and served together as editors on law review. Now, we both practice law in Phoenix, although at different firms. That said, our respective offices are in towers across the street from each other — both on the 20th floor. (No, we cannot see each other from our offices — we face different directions.) 

We currently live in North Phoenix with our son, Brody, and our recently-arrived daughter, Lauren.

KENDRA: I am an associate at Perkins Coie. My practice focuses on blockchain technology and digital currency. My work allows me to counsel companies around the world that are developing cutting-edge technologies that don’t perfectly fit within the existing regulatory landscape. This fast-evolving field of law has been exhilarating. The challenge is keeping up with regulations from various federal agencies as well as those in different states and countries — all of which are inevitably out-of-sync. It is very exciting work.

Of course, I would not feel such fulfillment in my career without the support and interest of my husband. A good deal of Aaron’s work focuses on the technology industry. Although this provides a mutual area of professional interest, it can make for some painfully boring dinner discussions for our son.

AARON: My practice focuses on intellectual property litigation at Jaburg Wilk, a mid-sized firm in the Phoenix market. I represent clients in state and federal courts across the U.S., as well as before the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board.

I really enjoy the creative and competitive aspect of litigating intellectual property disputes. There is always something interesting and unique in these representations. I am regularly inspired by the brilliance and risk-seeking nature of my clients — which range from entrepreneurs, inventors, and artists to innovative startups and large corporations. There is no such thing as a typical day at the office. I am fortunate to have found such a gratifying practice.

Any advice for current Boyd students?

AARON: I recommend taking courses based on your interests. I focused on bar subjects to ensure I had a solid legal foundation for practice. That has not necessarily helped much in the real world. You learn most things as you go — that is why it’s called ‘practice.’ For instance, I did not take intellectual property (which I was interested in) because I figured I would never be able to crack that area of practice. It just so happened that I fell into that area of practice. I probably would have done well in a class I was interested in, and such background would have been valuable as I started my current practice. You never know where you’ll end up.

KENDRA: My advice is to put in the work. It will pay off. Your post-law school options will be much greater if you keep your nose to the grindstone. And do not get discouraged if you have a semester or two of disappointing grades. Every semester counts. Just keep at it.