top of page

Kirk Stange on Transformative Decisions in Business and Life


Kirk Stange is the Co Founder of StangeLawFirm. He has garnered a wealth of knowledge and experience during his esteemed career. He graciously took some time out of his busy schedule to share his insights on life's pivotal moments and their impact on his personal and professional endeavors. Kirk remained steadfast in his commitment to providing compassionate and effective legal counsel to his clients. He believes that every individual deserves the opportunity to navigate the legal system with guidance and support. His dedication to his clients and his deep understanding of family law have made him a trusted advisor and advocate for countless individuals and families.


Can you start by telling us a bit about yourself and your journey as a leader in your industry?

I am a passionate lawyer who has dedicated my career to helping families navigate the challenging aspects of family law. My personal experiences have shaped my approach, emphasizing empathy and the importance of understanding each client's unique circumstances. I am a strong advocate for my clients, fighting for their rights and interests with unwavering determination. My leadership in the industry is evident through my involvement in bar associations and my commitment to sharing my knowledge and expertise to improve the quality of legal services for families. I am optimistic about the future of family law, believing in the ongoing efforts to create a more just and equitable system for all..


What specific experiences or decisions in your journey do you believe have shaped your approach to business and leadership?

My approach to business and leadership has been shaped by my experiences as a young lawyer representing indigent individuals in family law. I transitioned from public defense to private practice, mentored young lawyers, and navigated setbacks and challenges. I believe that empathy, resilience, and a commitment to innovation are the foundation of effective leadership. By fostering a culture of these values, I strive to create an environment where individuals can thrive and contribute to the success of the organization.


Can you share a story of a pivotal moment in your career that led to a significant transformation in your business or personal life?

In my early career, I worked at a small general practice law firm without an initial interest in divorce or family law. However, when one of the partners went on medical leave, I was tasked with handling their divorce and family law cases. As I took on these cases, clients started referring others to me in the same field. Before I realized it, I had transitioned into becoming a divorce and family lawyer.


What factors did you consider when making that critical decision, and how did you weigh the potential risks and rewards?

When I considered transitioning into family law, I took a careful look at a few key factors. I understood that delving into the legal intricacies and handling people's emotions during divorces would be a significant learning curve. I weighed the potential challenges, acknowledging the difficulty ahead. However, I also recognized it as an opportunity for personal growth and a chance to assist people through tough times. Despite the inherent risks of stepping into a new field, the prospect of being a valuable support for individuals facing difficult family situations outweighed the uncertainties. Becoming a better advocate for clients became my top priority.


What challenges did you face during this transformative period, and how did you overcome them?

During a major career change, I had to dive into learning a lot about family law, even though it was a hard decision. Understanding the legal aspects was tricky, and dealing with people's emotions in divorce cases was challenging. I worked hard to be kind, understanding, and effective in communicating with clients. This period of change not only improved my legal skills but also emphasized the importance of being caring and adept at talking to people going through tough times. Now, I see myself not just as a lawyer but as someone who helps individuals through difficult family situations.


Looking back, what advice would you give to your younger self at that time, or to entrepreneurs and business leaders who might find themselves in a similar situation?

Reflecting on that pivotal moment, I would advise my younger self and other entrepreneurs facing a similar situation to embrace change with openness. I emphasize the value of being adaptable and willing to explore new avenues, even if they initially seem outside one's comfort zone. It's crucial to prioritize continuous learning, especially in areas that may present challenges. Additionally, I encourage prioritizing a balanced approach, acknowledging the significance of both professional growth and compassionate client engagement. My advice centers on cultivating resilience, a willingness to learn, and a commitment to holistic, client-centered business practices.


How has that pivotal moment influenced the way you make decisions today, and what lasting impact has it had on your business?

My pivotal move into family law significantly shaped my decision-making approach today. The experience reinforced the importance of considering both legal intricacies and emotional aspects when faced with challenges. This dual perspective guides my choices, emphasizing empathy and comprehensive client support. The lasting impact on my business is evident in a more holistic client-focused practice. My ability to blend legal expertise with compassionate communication has fostered lasting relationships with clients, contributing to the reputation of my firm. This transformative moment continues to underscore the value of a well-rounded and empathetic approach in both decision-making and business success.


In your opinion, how important is it for entrepreneurs and business leaders to have these transformative moments, and how can they best prepare for and learn from them?

In my perspective, experiencing transformative moments is crucial for entrepreneurs and business leaders. These moments often bring new insights, foster adaptability, and drive personal and professional growth. To best prepare for and learn from these situations, individuals should cultivate a mindset of openness to change. Actively seek opportunities for learning and be willing to step outside comfort zones. Embrace challenges as chances to acquire new skills and perspectives. Additionally, building a network of mentors and peers can provide valuable guidance and support during transformative periods. The ability to extract lessons and apply them to future endeavors is key for sustained success in the dynamic world of business.





bottom of page