January 13, 2021
Director Lee B. Brumitt, a graduate of Drake University Law School, joined Dysart Taylor in 1984. Focusing his practice on construction law and litigation, Lee represents owners, contractors, subcontractors, suppliers and design professionals on public, commercial and residential projects.
Thirty-six years into his practice, Lee is passionate about protecting his clients’ businesses and helping them grow. Whether a case involves disputes over money owed, defective work, injuries or contract terms, Lee brings experience, knowledge and hard work to the table.
Read on to learn more about Lee in our Attorney Spotlight:
Why did you want to become an attorney? What made you decide on this field?
“I grew up in a small town. The courthouse square was the center of activity, but there was always a shroud of mystery as to exactly what happened behind the doors of the courthouse. I heard stories about trials and saw the lawyers huddled in the corner of the café discussing cases. This work seemed important to the community and I wanted to play a significant role in helping people solve problems.”
What is your most significant memory or case in your career?
“For me, cases are driven by the personalities of the litigants, lawyers and witnesses and each are memorable for their unique set of characters and issues. Every case has taught me something about humanity. One of the most recent cases involved a large arbitration between two contractors conducted entirely via Zoom. Most of the preparation for the case took place during the COVID-19 lockdown and its aftermath and required navigating through an untested trial environment. This case, like others, will always be memorable for the cast of characters involved but also because it marks a turning point in how cases will be prepared and litigated in the future.”
You’ve been with the firm since 1984. What is the biggest change you’ve witnessed during that time?
“When I started at Dysart Taylor, ‘cut and paste’ was a literal term. Secretaries were experts at literally cutting paper and pasting new pieces in order to edit documents. Like many professions, the advent of the computer and the internet changed the practice of law remarkably. You have to be much quicker on your feet (and hands) and as processing speeds increase, so does the need to keep up. Additionally, when I started, it was not unusual for lawyers and assistants to smoke at their desks. Needless to say, office atmospheres have greatly improved.”
What is the best advice you can give an up-and-coming attorney?
“I was never very good at trying to be someone else. Be who you are and develop your own voice. Bring the best of yourself to each case. Additionally, find a good mentor and learn from that person. Lastly, give yourself to worthy causes in the community and expect nothing in exchange. As they say in Rotary, practice ‘service above self.’”
What Kansas City experience would you recommend to everyone?
“I’m a big sports fan but would highly recommend taking in the vibrant arts scene in Kansas City. My personal favorite is catching dinner downtown and a concert at the Folly Theater. For homegrown and highly talented musicians, do not miss the Kansas City Jazz Orchestra. They will blow your socks off.”
How do you like to spend your time outside of work?
“We recently bought a cabin in Oregon County, Missouri, on the Eleven Point River. It currently has no phone or internet and is the ultimate getaway!”
Contact Lee Brumitt at (816) 714-3027 or lbrumitt@dysarttaylor.com.