YLS is happy to welcome to the Council Jacob Goodman, one of the newest representatives out of District III! To get to know Jacob, check out his interview below.

Current place of employment?

The Fierberg National Law Group, PLLC

Law school?

Vanderbilt University Law School.

Objectives/goals related to your new position as Council Member–i.e. what do you want to accomplish?

I hope to foster a community for young lawyers in Michigan. Additionally, I hope to develop a more robust network of young lawyers in the northern part of the state. Being in Traverse City, I sometimes feel isolated from the rest of the state generally, let alone young lawyers who are mostly downstate.

Favorite thing about your geographic region in Michigan?

The people. Having grown up in the Flint area but spent the five years before moving back in Tennessee, I forgot how much I loved the people of this State until I returned. Most people are so kind and truly care about their community. Traverse City is a wonderful place to live, and it is an honor to start my legal career here. The level of civic engagement and community building is special. And the nature in the surrounding areas is also a plus; I’ve enjoyed exploring the many state parks in the area.

Why did you choose to pursue a legal career?

It’s something cheesy to say, but I truly wanted to make a difference in this world. To me, law was the vehicle to do that. Our system of resolving despite is the cornerstone of our country, and I enjoying being a part of that and seeking justice for my clients who often have doubts that the system can work in their favor.

What advice do you wish you knew when you were starting your legal career that you know now?

The profession is full off (and built on) uncertainties. If there were a “right” answer, we wouldn’t have a job. Focus on the process of decision making and, as difficult as it may be, not the outcome.

What is surprising about your job that others may not know?

Most of my cases are not in Michigan. I currently am involved on cases in California, Connecticut, Maryland, Washington, Indiana, and Louisiana, among others.

What do you like to do in your spare time (i.e. hobbies and interests)?

One of my favorite pastimes is traveling with and supporting my wife’s roller derby team. I knew nothing about the sport prior to last year but have learned to love it and the community surrounding it. Her derby name is Carolina Fury (she’s from North Carolina), leading her teammates to refer to me only has “Mr. Fury,” which, in my opinion, is a great nickname to stumble into.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

Time Travel.

If you could have lunch with any person, living or dead, who would it be? Why?
Walter Reuther. Growing up in the Flint area and having many relatives who were GM workers or otherwise involved in organized labor, union history has always fascinated me. His leadership of the UAW during the Civil Rights Movement is of particular interest.   

Jacob R. Goodman is a YLS council member and attorney at The Fierberg National Law Group, PLLC.

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