Meet #MOLawyers: Madeline Johnson

Madeline Johnson, alongside Alex Pearson, co-founded Missouri Kansas Queer Law. A Kansas City native, Johnson graduated from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law and was admitted to The Missouri Bar in 2005.

Why did you found Missouri Kansas Queer Law? 

We wanted to serve and advocate for our community directly as we felt our LGBTQ+ family was underserved and lacking a law firm dedicated to our community’s specific needs. As members of the LGBTQ+ community ourselves, we feel uniquely positioned in understanding the divergent issues our clients face in all types of legal matters. 

As a lawyer, what are you most passionate about? 

Advocating for the equal protection of the laws for gender non-conforming folks. 

What advice would you give to lawyers who want to start a solo or small firm? 

Dream big, lean into your dreams, and trust your authentic self to lead you in the right direction. When you do, you will be very pleasantly surprised. 

What are three tips you would give to new or young lawyers? 

1. Never stop learning; the moment you do you begin to stagnate. 
2. Take time for yourself and your family – a balanced life is essential. 
3. Don’t overlook or underestimate the amazing clients who come into your life; they have some amazing stories! 
And I will add a fourth: Have a sense of humor about yourself and what you are doing (avoid taking yourself too seriously). 

If you could eliminate one food so no one could eat it ever again, what would you destroy? 

Celery! 

Answers have been edited for brevity and clarity. Know a Missouri lawyer you think should be featured in a future “Meet #MOLawyers”? Email nhillen@mobar.org your suggestion.