Ed Lawson

Solid business attorney and education advocate

Ed has been practicing law since 1974 when he graduated from Drake Law School. While in law school, Ed was the editor of the Drake Insurance Law Review, a member of the National Moot Court Team and a member of the Order of Coif, an honorary organization of law students. Before beginning his private practice, he clerked for the Iowa Supreme Court and served with the Justice Department in Washington, D.C. and the NH Office of the Attorney General. Now his focus is on:

• Business formation, continuation planning and litigation
• Commercial and real property transactions and litigation
• Education law
• Estate planning

Background in Education

Prior to attending law school, Ed taught in public schools which enables him to appreciate the practical aspects of school law matters. He continues to enjoy teaching and teaches several classes a year at the University of NH on issues concerning intellectual property in an educational setting and computer literacy. He is also a frequent presenter at school law conferences.

Ed has represented numerous NH School districts over the past twenty years, especially in the areas of special education and employment disputes. He is a former President of the New Hampshire Council of School Attorneys.

Alternative Dispute Resolution Mediator

Ed is a certified Rule 170 Mediator, is an AAA trained Abitrator, and a member of the New England Chapter of the Association for Conflict Resolution. With the spiraling costs and increasing delays in resolution of disputes through traditional litigation, alternative dispute resolution methods are becoming increasingly popular. Ed has the training and experience to guide clients through the alternative dispute resolution process.

Interest in Technology

Ed’s longstanding interest in electronic technology including computer systems and software provides a strong base for representing clients on related technology issues. He was among the early users of computers in a law office environment. For over ten years, Ed has been actively involved in the Greater New Hampshire Linux Users Group and is a frequent presenter on a variety of computer related topics including end-user applications, web frameworks for site development and software licensing.

Outside Interests

Ed is involved in a variety of activities ranging from kayaking along the downeast Maine coast to using new technologies to converse with other ham radio operators throughout the world. He plays an active role in creating club newsletters, instructing new kayakers, providing communications support for a variety of NH public events, and actively participating in groups fostering the use of Open source software for computer and Internet access to the elderly and disadvantaged.