The world unexpectedly and tragically lost a gentle soul and giant unicorn of a man on Valentine’s Day 2023 – fitting given that he was a lover with a huge heart. A lover of justice, his children, friends, clients, staff, whiskey, women, his law practice and law partner.
Jarrod was a quirky and rare breed of a man whose influence, intellect, kindness, loyalty and compassion reached far and wide. The center of his world was his law practice and the family law community where he tirelessly fought for justice and good. Jarrod stood up to bullies, protected the vulnerable, spoke up for those who couldn’t and fought the good fight every day of his life – all with compassion and grace. Jarrod represented his clients with conviction and empathy, while always maintaining respect, civility and oftentimes friendship with his adversaries. No matter how hard the case, how little he was paid, how beaten down he may have felt, Jarrod never gave up on his cases and clients and when necessary, saw his case through to trial where he obtained excellent results.
Jarrod and his partner were work spouses, work soulmates and best friends. They practiced alongside each other every day for almost thirteen years. They planned to practice together through retirement and then enjoy the fruits of their labors together after passing the firm down to their trusted and loyal associate. Jarrod and his partner supported each other tirelessly in handling difficult and complex family law cases. They had a rare bond and delighted in each other’s company and successes. They always worked as a team and comforted each other whenever times got hard. They had an unmatched fondness for one another and a synergy that will never be equaled. Jarrod’s partner was lucky enough to be with him in the end to send him into the next realm.
In addition to being an exceptional lawyer, Jarrod was an entrepreneur, whiskey aficionado, home brewer and was in the process of opening his own distillery. He was developing an application for use by the family law community and was constantly exploring all types of business opportunities.
Jarrod loved sports, especially basketball, studying the sport extensively and gaining a deep understanding of every nuance of the game. Jarrod knew every NBA and college player and could quote off the top of his head stats from big games going back to his childhood.
Jarrod was a font of knowledge in poetry, literature, music, wine, health and fitness, comics, gaming and so much more. His ability to converse intelligently regarding almost any topic in any circle was nothing short of magic.
Jarrod raised his two boys who were always his first priority. He also raised his nephew when his sister could not and his nephew was one of his closest family members and best friends.
Jarrod and his nephew were huge jazz fans and often attended games.
Jarrod was a caretaker and safety net for dozens of people in his life. Jarrod selflessly gave his time and money to make sure his circle of family friends were cared for financially and emotionally. No matter what the problem, issue or crisis his friends and family were facing, Jarrod always showed up to provide support and comfort. Everyone around Jarrod leaned on him as their rock. Once Jarrod considered you a friend, he was loyal and would be there for you unconditionally for life.
Jarrod was an accomplished musician and performer. He played guitar like a professional and with unwavering passion. People wondered why Jarrod had his nails done on his right hand so he could play his guitar every day. Like Jarrod himself, his taste in music was quirky and unconventional, his favorites including tool and skinny puppy.
Jarrod kept those in the courtroom transfixed, those at the party laughing, those suffering comforted and everyone loved. Although his passing leaves a void no one can ever fill, his exemplary life, kind heart, gentle soul and green lantern will always shine bright for those of us who loved him.