The State Bar Association of North Dakota Fall 2013 Gavel Magazine | Page 25

KNOW YOUR BOARD OF GOVERNORS:
ZACHARY EVAN PELHAM

Current position: 
Partner, Pearce & Durick, Bismarck
Hometown, college attended, law school attended:
I grew up in Romeo, Michigan, a suburb
of Detroit.  I attended Taylor University in
Upland, Indiana—where I received  History
and International Studies degrees and met my
wonderful wife (a North Dakota girl).  I am
proud to have graduated from the University of
North Dakota School of Law in Grand Forks. 
Any professional work prior to law school?  
I substitute taught for a year after graduating from college.  I currently volunteer with
several programs that allow me to return to a

The Gavel Fall 2013

classroom.  I often find I learn just as much as
the students.
What led you to a career in law? 
I am the first lawyer in my family and my
parents encouraged me to consider a career in
law.       
Year admitted to bar: 2004
Nature of your practice: 
My practice is focused on personal injury and
negligence defense, oil and gas law, administrative and government law, and employment and
labor law.    
Length of time on SBAND Board: 
I joined the Board in July 2013.
Other involvement with SBAND prior to being
on the Board: 
I am the current chair of the Law Related
Education Committee and also serve on the
Ethics Committee.  I have also served on three
annual meeting planning committees.
Particular areas of interest regarding SBAND
or legal profession in North Dakota: 

I am interested in increasing involvement in
SBAND, as well as other legal organizations in
our state.  The self-governance of our profession is only as good as those who are involved. 
Being involved fosters civility by the “rubbing
of shoulders” at committee meetings, allows
for networking opportunities, ensures the
continuity of institutional knowledge, and gives
our association willing persons to help make
important decisions. There are numerous committee and leadership positions in
SBAND (and other organizations) for the taking. While we are all extremely busy, becoming
involved ensures that we remain extremely
busy.        
Favorite quote:  Fortune favors the bold.
 Last book read (good or bad): 
I have two (soon to be 3) children four and
under -- Curious George is on my top list right
now.

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