Marie Nienhuis, attorney with Beck, Chaet, Bamberger & Polsky, S.C.
Name: Marie Nienhuis
Title: Attorney
Company: Beck, Chaet, Bamberger & Polsky, S.C.
City of residence: Oconomowoc
Family: "Four wonderful kids – Peter, 16, Jane, 11, Ben, 10 and Zachary, 7."
What are you working on now? "Chapter 128 receivership matters throughout Wisconsin. At the moment, I am handling a number of real estate-related receiverships involving both residential and commercial property; a few manufacturing receiverships and several retail receiverships."
What are the most interesting issues you work on clients with? "Each receivership or commercial bankruptcy involves not only an analysis of legal issues, but also gaining an understanding of the specific industry or business of the client or debtor involved. The most interesting aspect of my work is the continued learning that is required in order to expeditiously, and sometimes, creatively, achieve an equitable result for the parties involved in each case."
What is the most challenging project you’ve been involved with? "Insolvency matters do not usually involve jury trials. However, I became involved several years ago in a case in federal court that ultimately involved a three week jury trial. The courtroom dynamic and additional demands were so different than what I had been used to. It was an incredible experience to persuade lay people as opposed to an experienced judge. When the jury ruled in my client’s favor, it was especially gratifying."
What was the funniest moment of your career? "When I practiced in Chicago, I had a case in which I represented the trustee for a men’s retail clothing store that had been called ‘Mallard’s.’ We sold the company’s assets as well as its name so we needed to change the name of the debtor while the case continued after the sale. Deciding to have a little fun, we asked the court for authority to change the name to ‘In re Dead Duck,’ and the judge, having a good sense of humor, readily granted our motion."
