Patterson Legal Group stands as a prominent personal injury law firm, dedicated to advocating for individuals who have suffered due to negligence. With a rich history spanning over three decades, the firm has solidified its reputation through unwavering commitment to clients and a steadfast presence in the legal community.
2. Founding of Patterson Legal Group
2.1 Background of Gary Patterson
Gary Patterson, the managing member and co-founder of Patterson Legal Group, hails from Savannah, Missouri. His academic journey began at Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph, Missouri, where he earned his undergraduate degree. Patterson furthered his education with a master’s degree in criminal justice from the University of Central Missouri. Before venturing into law, he served as a probation and parole officer for the State of Missouri, gaining invaluable insights into the criminal justice system. This experience ignited his passion for legal advocacy, leading him to pursue a Juris Doctorate at Washburn University. During his time there, he graduated with honors, contributed to the Washburn Law Journal, and honed his skills in Moot Court. His early legal career included clerking for the Kansas Department of Administration and the Shawnee County District Court Judges, laying a strong foundation for his future endeavors.
2.2 Establishment in 1994
In early 1994, driven by a vision to provide dedicated legal representation to those in need, Gary Patterson departed from a large civil litigation firm in Wichita to establish his own practice. This bold move marked the inception of what would evolve into Patterson Legal Group. The firm’s early days were characterized by a focus on civil litigation, with a commitment to delivering personalized legal services to clients.
2.3 Initial Vision and Mission
From its inception, Patterson Legal Group was founded on the principles of justice, client advocacy, and community service. The mission was clear: to provide exceptional legal representation to individuals who had been wronged, ensuring they received the compensation and justice they deserved. This client-centered approach became the cornerstone of the firm’s operations, guiding its growth and evolution over the years.
3. Early Years and Growth
3.1 Initial Practice Areas
In its formative years, Patterson Legal Group concentrated on personal injury cases, representing clients who had suffered due to accidents, negligence, and malpractice. The firm’s dedication to this area of law stemmed from a desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of those adversely affected by unforeseen events. By focusing on personal injury, the firm aimed to level the playing field for clients facing formidable opponents, such as large insurance companies and corporations.
3.2 Expansion of Clientele
As word of the firm’s successful outcomes spread, Patterson Legal Group experienced a steady increase in clientele. The combination of compassionate representation and a track record of favorable settlements and verdicts attracted individuals seeking justice for their injuries. This growth was not merely a result of effective legal strategies but also a reflection of the trust and confidence clients placed in the firm’s ability to advocate on their behalf.
3.3 Early Challenges and Milestones
The journey of establishing a reputable law firm was not without challenges. Navigating the competitive legal landscape required resilience and adaptability. One significant milestone was the firm’s ability to recover substantial compensation for clients, totaling over $275 million in verdicts and settlements. This achievement underscored the firm’s commitment to excellence and reinforced its reputation as a formidable advocate for injury victims.
4. Expansion of Services
4.1 Addition of New Practice Areas
Recognizing the evolving needs of their clients, Patterson Legal Group expanded its services beyond traditional personal injury cases. The firm began handling complex cases involving wrongful death, medical malpractice, and automotive product liability.
