Alec J. Kosminskas - Carthage, NC

What inspired you to pursue a career in law?

Both my parents are lawyers in Chicago, my mother is a family law lawyer and my father is a corporate lawyer. As a child and young adult, I listened to them talk about their cases and I understood that they were able to positively impact people’s lives. I wanted to have that kind of impact and decided to follow their career path and go to law school.

Can you describe your journey in the legal field?

I graduated from Columbia University in New York City where I majored in film studies and played football. After law school, I went into the sports entertainment industry which was fun but not fulfilling. I attended DePaul University College of Law in Chicago and after law school worked for a small corporate law firm. Corporate law does not provide many opportunities for regular client contact which was something I enjoyed. I decided that family law would allow me to interact more with clients and I joined a family law firm in Chicago. As an associate of Rowland & Yauger, I am practicing family law as well as other areas of law which allow me daily contact with the clients I am representing.

What specific areas of law do you specialize in, and why did you choose those areas?

My primary practice is family law but I also will be practicing criminal and personal injury law. In addition to regular client contact, I chose family law because family law cases involve many different types of issues, child custody, child support and alimony, the division of property and debt, tax issues and jurisdictional issues and I enjoy solving a variety of issues.

How do you approach working with clients? What can clients expect when working with you?

I treat every client with respect understanding that (a) the legal issues they are facing may be some of the most difficult issues they have faced in their lives and (b) in most instances this is the first time they have encountered the legal system and that they may have very little understanding as to how the process works.

What values or principles guide your legal practice?

I attended a Jesuit High School in Chicago, Loyola Academy. The Motto of my High School is “Women and Men for Others”. This is the principle that guides my legal practice. The purpose of my practice is to serve the best interests of my clients.

What is your strategy for handling complex or challenging cases?

Preparation, preparation, preparation.

How do you maintain a balance between professional excellence and compassionate client care?

By taking the time to listen to clients but to also explain to the client all risks associated with decisions to be made in a case, whether in settlement or trial, so the client feels that he or she is being heard and participating in the outcome of his or her case.

What motivates you to keep pushing forward in your legal career?

When a client thanks me for all I have done in representing them.

Outside of work, what are some of your passions or interests?

I enjoy working out and playing golf.

What are your long-term goals for the firm?

I would like to help our Family Law Practice grow because with the growing population of Moore and Randolph counties, more family law lawyers will be needed in the future.