Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Legal Partner in Lawrence, KS
Established in 1934, Barber Emerson is a distinguished law firm headquartered in Lawrence, Kansas, serving clients across the Midwest. Our practice spans diverse legal disciplines, including real estate, business, estate planning, family law, and complex litigation. With a legacy of excellence, we combine the specialized expertise of a large firm with the personalized service and practical approach of a smaller practice.Recognized by Best Lawyers and holding the highest Martindale Hubbell rating, our attorneys are committed to upholding the values of integrity, reliability, and client advocacy. We serve a broad clientele, from Fortune 500 companies to local businesses and individuals, ensuring tailored legal solutions that meet evolving needs while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct.
Services
Real Estate Law
Estate Planning
Business Law
Litigation
Family Law
Construction Law
Land Use & Zoning
Probate
Trust Litigation
Commercial Litigation
Details
- Year established: 1934
Highlights and features
- We have represented clients since 1934 with deep roots in Kansas legal practice.
- Our attorneys hold the highest Martindale Hubbell rating for legal excellence.
- Specialized in complex real estate, business, and litigation matters regionally.
- Recognized by Best Lawyers as one of the nation's top law firms.
- Combine large-firm expertise with small-firm personalized client service.
Associations and certifications
- Best Lawyers
- Martindale Hubbell
- U.S. News & World Report Tier 1
What people say
Highest Martindale rating
Best Lawyers recognition
Tier 1 ranking
Experienced attorneys
Client-focused service
Services
Real Estate Law
Our real estate practice handles transactions, zoning, and litigation for commercial and residential properties. We represent developers, lenders, and property owners in complex matters including eminent domain and 1031 exchanges. Clients benefit from decades of regional expertise and strategic counsel tailored to their specific needs.
Estate Planning
We create customized estate plans including wills, trusts, and probate strategies to protect assets and ensure client intentions are honored. Our attorneys guide families through trust administration and resolve estate disputes with sensitivity and legal precision, combining technical knowledge with compassionate service.
Business Law
From formation to complex transactions, we advise businesses on contracts, mergers, and compliance matters. Our practice includes banking law, commercial litigation, and representation of corporations in state and federal courts, ensuring legal protection aligned with business objectives.
Litigation
Our litigators handle civil, commercial, and appellate cases in courts across the Midwest. With experience in complex disputes and alternative dispute resolution, we advocate for clients in real estate conflicts, business litigation, and appellate matters, prioritizing efficient resolutions and courtroom excellence.
Family Law
We represent clients in divorce, child custody, and family-related legal matters with empathy and advocacy. Our attorneys address property division, support enforcement, and mediation, focusing on protecting client interests while minimizing emotional and financial strain during sensitive proceedings.
People
Mark A. Andersen
Member
Specializes in real estate, eminent domain, and construction law with over 30 years of experience. Leads complex property transactions and litigation, providing strategic counsel to regional developers and financial institutions.
Calvin J. Karlin
Member
Focuses on estate planning, trust litigation, and creditor rights. Advises families and financial institutions on probate matters and complex trust disputes, combining technical expertise with client-centered solutions.
Terrence J. Campbell
Member
Handles civil litigation and criminal defense in federal and state courts. Represents clients in appellate cases and complex disputes, known for strategic advocacy and courtroom effectiveness across multiple legal domains.
Matthew S. Gough
Member
Practices land use, public finance, and banking law. Represents municipalities and developers in zoning matters, infrastructure projects, and regulatory compliance, ensuring practical solutions aligned with legal requirements.
Bethany J. Roberts
Member
Specializes in family law and child welfare cases. Advocates for clients in divorce proceedings and child custody matters, balancing legal rigor with compassionate support during emotionally challenging situations.
Questions
What areas of law do you specialize in?
We specialize in real estate, business, estate planning, family law, litigation, construction law, and land use/zoning matters across Kansas and Missouri.
How long has Barber Emerson been in practice?
Our firm has provided legal services since 1934, maintaining a legacy of excellence for over 90 years.
What accreditations does your firm hold?
We are recognized by Best Lawyers, hold the highest Martindale Hubbell rating, and received U.S. News & World Report Tier 1 rankings.
Do you serve clients outside Kansas?
Yes, we represent clients throughout the Midwest, including Missouri, and handle matters with national and international implications.
How do you approach client communication?
We prioritize clear, timely communication and personalized service, ensuring clients understand legal processes and feel supported throughout their case.
