For Julie Frickleton, the legal profession is all about seeking justice for your clients. “It is always satisfying to see a jury do the right thing and compensate a plaintiff who has lived with serious hardship through no fault of their own,” she says. “Every time that happens, it reminds me that our hard work and attention to detail make a critical difference to the clients who depend on us.”
After spending the early part of her litigation practice at large law firms, Julie joined her husband, Jim, at Bartimus Frickleton Robertson Rader in 1992, practicing law part time while raising three children. It has been a good fit ever since, and she now serves as of counsel to the firm. Her current practice focuses mostly on project-based research and writing. Julie also assists with trial preparation and strategy, working with trial consultants and jury focus groups. She is a strong asset in the firm’s “bullpen” – always available to lend her expertise to the other attorneys in the firm, whether it be trial preparation or appellate briefing. Julie has prepared critical briefs in cases at every level of state and federal courts, including the United States Supreme Court.
Known as a clear thinker and excellent writer, Julie’s colleagues praise her ability to zero in on the central theme of a case quickly and succinctly. She enjoys working with the other lawyers at the firm, and appreciates their energy and dedication: “This firm has so much talent and experience. We are all equally committed to supporting the people we serve and the legal profession at large.” Julie actively represents the firm at numerous bar association and civic events, strengthening the firm’s connections with other lawyers, judges and the community at large.
One of Julie’s favorite things about practicing law in Kansas City is the collegial nature of the legal community. “Our local bar association, the KCMBA, is truly unique,” she says. “Everyone gets along, no matter who you represent. We are lucky to have such a friendly and enthusiastic group of lawyers in this city; it’s not like that everywhere.”
Julie’s professional and personal lives are intertwined, to say the least. She and Jim met in law school, both making the most of their shared experience through study groups, Law Review and partnering on the UMKC National Trial Team. At law school, they also forged many friendships that have deeply enriched their lives and careers.
Jim and Julie married in 1984 and now have three adult children. Patrick has his own business in Kansas City, and he and his wife, Brianne, have two small children. Sam is a filmmaker in Los Angeles, and Kelly, the youngest, is a trial lawyer at Bartimus Frickleton Robertson Rader. Spending time with family is a high priority for Julie, who is understandably proud of her children's various achievements, their concern for others, and their great sense of humor.
Julie is very proud to be a part of the legal profession. “People like to make jokes, but the vast majority of lawyers are smart and generous. People don’t always appreciate how much lawyers do for others, whether they are being compensated or not.” Bartimus Frickleton Robertson Rader is very committed to civic and charitable organizations throughout the community, including the City Union Mission, Children’s Mercy Hospital, Operation Breakthrough, JDRF, Make-A-Wish and many others. So, the spirit of “giving back” just comes naturally to each of its lawyers. Julie has been involved with organizations such as Genesis Promise Academy, Seton Center, Newhouse Shelter, War Child and others. She also sings in her church choir and serves as a judge in high school debate tournaments and law school trial competitions.
A lover of art and history, Julie enjoys traveling to other countries to experience other cultures and landscapes. She is constantly learning and working to improve everything she does. She credits her mother with setting a high bar when it comes to writing, editing, music, tennis, marriage and parenting. “I had the privilege of growing up in a house where we learned by example. We were never pushed, but always encouraged. I try to provide that kind of support to my family, friends and colleagues.”
- EDUCATION AND PAST EXPERIENCE
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1983 – University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law, J.D.
1978 – Drake University, B.A.
- MEMBERSHIPS AND AFFILIATIONS
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Jurisdictions
State of Kansas – All Jurisdictions
State of Missouri – All Jurisdictions
United State Supreme Court
United States Federal District Court – Western District of Missouri
Professional
American Association for Justice
American Bar Association
Association of Women Lawyers
Kansas Bar Association
Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association
Missouri Association of Trial Attorneys
Missouri Bar Association
UMKC Law Foundation
Civic
Bishop Sullivan Center
Children's Mercy Hospital
Genesis Promise
JDRF
LINC
Operation Breakthrough
Seton Center
St. Thomas More Choir
The Children's Place
- HONORS AND RECOGNITIONS
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AV Rating – Martindale-Hubbell Directory


