Courtney Laginess
God’s work was evident in a series of events that directed Courtney Laginess (’05) to Regent Law School. Courtney came to know Christ during his sophomore year at Duke University after becoming reacquainted with a family friend and Christian missionary who put him in touch with a representative from The Navigators ministry.
The Navigators helps individuals come into closer concert with the Word of God. “He simply asked me to read the Bible and pray,” Laginess said. “In the process of searching Scripture, I became a Christian.”
Courtney later accompanied the family friend on a trip to Russia, where he first heard about Regent University. His interest was piqued by the curriculum and biblical integration. A Navigator Scholarship to Regent Law School became the confirmation. It was a remarkable unfolding of God’s plan, he stated, because he was not even aware of the school’s existence a few years back.
When he entered law school, Laginess was primarily interested in promoting religious liberty and free speech in the public square. He was highly motivated by the concept of the Regent motto, Christian Leadership to Change the World. In his second year of law school, Laginess became greatly inspired by the business curriculum and developed a keen appreciation for the role lawyers play in adding value to transactions. “I was always interested in the free market system and private enterprise,” he said.
Following graduation, Laginess joined a Cincinnati law firm where he specializes in the practice of intellectual property law with a focus in trademark prosecution, licensing, and mergers and acquisitions. He believes Christians have a special obligation to treat opposing interests with dignity and respect, while securing the best possible outcome for their client.
“I can look back and clearly see God’s hand. Not only did I go to a great school, but I also met my wife at Regent Law School, and we now have a young son,” he said. Since Regent Law School is a relatively new institution with a growing reputation, Laginess says it is incumbent upon current students and alumni to hold high standards for themselves. “We’re not just representing ourselves or Regent Law School; we’re representing Jesus Christ in the legal field.”
