Chris Yetka is a commercial trial attorney focusing his practice on insurance recovery disputes. He has successfully enforced the coverage rights of policyholders across the country in cases relating to nearly every type of insurance policy. He has represented and counseled financial institutions, utilities, medical device companies, construction companies, product manufacturers, transportation companies, agricultural businesses and technology companies. Chris has successfully represented beneficiaries in trust actions, and minority shareholders in business disputes. Chris provides advice to general counsel in the areas of legal and regulatory compliance, records management and document retention, and in the evolving area of cyber security. Chris has also worked with human resources professionals and general counsel in labor and employment matters.
Tell us about something that has shaped your career?
I come from a family of lawyers. My grandfather was in private practice in Cloquet, Minnesota and served as Minnesota’s Insurance Commissioner. My father took over my grandfather’s practice, served on the Judiciary Committee as a member of Minnesota’s House of Representatives, and ultimately was appointed to the Minnesota Supreme Court. My older brother practices law, and serves as Cloquet’s City Attorney. Being surrounded by lawyers made me think like a lawyer from an early age.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
The people I work with. I love the interaction with both my colleagues and clients in attempting to resolve complex issues. Finding solutions to difficult problems provides a sense of accomplishment that is very rewarding.
What unique experience has influenced your approach to serving clients?
As a first and second year lawyer I was fortunate to be involved in a series of significant cases that resulted in jury trials lasting for over twenty weeks. That experience taught me at an early age to look at and treat every litigation matter with the assumption it would be tried. While it is true that 95% of cases settle, when you prepare every case like it is going to trial, you increase the chances it will settle, while at the same time preparing yourself if it does not. Thinking about trial from the beginning also makes cases more cost efficient for the client because you are more focused, and do not spend time on collateral issues that will not be relevant to the goal of persuading a judge or jury.
What advice do you have for someone new to the industry?
Get broad-based experience early. Try to learn about as many areas of the law, and business generally, as you can. Ultimately you will need to specialize to successfully market yourself, but no matter what area you ultimately find yourself in, those early experiences will serve you well. If you are interested in litigation, seek out a judicial clerkship. The experience and relationships will also be a great advantage.
