Tricia Hoffman-Simanek

hoffman-simanek

Education

  • J.D., Notre Dame Law School, ‘01
  • B.A., Mount Mercy College, English & Criminal Justice Administration, Honors Program, ‘98

Extracurricular Activities While at NDLS

  • Journal of College and University Law, Production Editor
  • Women’s Legal Forum
  • GALILEE
  • Client Counseling Competition
  • Notre Dame Legal Aid

Employment

Vice-President, Shuttleworth & Ingersoll, P.L.C.
Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Insights Regarding My Area of Practice

  • Working for one of the larger firms in Iowa, while still being a “small” firm (40 attorneys), I am able to, early on in my career, gain valuable experience practicing medical malpractice/insurance defense and employment law.

Volunteer/Pro Bono Work

  • Iowa Legal Aid,(devoting more than 20 hours a year) 2001 – present
  • Iowa Mock Trial Program (Junior High, Senior High), Judge, 2002 – present
  • American Mock Trial Association, College Tournament, Judge, 2002-present
  • RSVP (Retired & Senior Volunteer Program), Advisory Council Member, 2002 – present
  • Adopt-A-Family Christmas Donation Program, Firm Coordinator, 2002 – present
  • Catherine McAuley Center, Board of Directors, 2003 – present
  • Visiting Nurses Association, Board Member, 2004 – present
  • Notre Dame Alumni Club of Cedar Rapids/Iowa City, President, 2003 -2005
  • Volunteer Big Sister in Big Brother/Big Sister Program, 2001 – 2004
  • Junior Achievement Volunteer Teacher, 2002 – 2004
  • American Cancer Society, Relay for Life, 2003-present
  • Mount Mercy College, Alumni Board Member, 2004- present

On How NDLS Influenced Me:

“The Notre Dame Law School mantra is “creating a different kind of lawyer” and that’s what I strive to be. The caring nature that NDLS instills has shaped me into a person who desires to give back to the community and volunteer in a variety of ways. While working at Notre Dame Legal Aid, I saw the difference I could make in people’s lives. Even though I currently work in private practice, I continue with pro bono work through Iowa Legal Aid. I also find satisfaction in private practice, helping my clients answer difficult questions and find resolution.”

On the NDLS Alumni Network:

“The network opportunities available at Notre Dame Law School are remarkable, not only while searching for a summer clerkship, but after graduation as well. In Iowa, the name Notre Dame brings with it immediate recognition and praise. People understand that Notre Dame implies excellence, achievement and a sense of religious pride. My Notre Dame connection has also provided me with many opportunities to grow in my quest of becoming a greater part of my community. For instance, I was offered a seat on a board from another Notre Dame graduate who was stepping down from her membership by virtue of my participation in the Alumni Club.”

On Classmates and Friendships:

“Some of my closest friendships were fostered at Notre Dame. We were all there for a common purpose and it brought everyone closer together. Our class size (180 students) enabled us to know each other by name. We formed special bonds, helping each other when we needed it, pushing each other when that’s what the situations called for: sort of community therapy. While my NDLS friends are scattered across the continent and globe, they will always be close.”

On the Notre Dame Law School Reputation:

“Notre Dame is well-respected in my community, in part, because it is not largely represented. My degree is relatively unique, and I stand out. Notre Dame graduates are looked upon as being well-prepared and well-schooled in fundamentals and a variety of disciplines. We are diligent and thorough – exemplary of the Midwest work ethic. We are also known as being compassionate and dedicated to whatever causes we undertake.”

On Community Service:

“My GALILEE experience during my very first year opened my eyes to what sort of role I would someday want to play in my community. I realized that I could work in private practice, yet still give back to those who could not afford legal representation. My firm is a very generous one, encouraging partners and associates alike to donate time to Iowa Legal Aid – I knew Shuttleworth & Ingersoll was the firm for me precisely because of its dedication to the community, not only with legal advice, but also through numerous other community endeavors.”