Most children think their parents are nothing short of superheroes. Darin Christensen’s four children probably have a few more bragging rights since their dad was named one of the 2006 Oregon Super Lawyers.
Christensen’s work in tax law earned him this recognition—a distinction only 5 percent of all lawyers receive. Each recipient is nominated by his or her peers. Then each nominee is reviewed and evaluated by the publishers of Law & Politics magazine, which is followed by a practice-specific peer evaluation.
Of the Oregon tax lawyers who were selected as Super Lawyers, Christensen was the youngest. However, making a successful career for himself in tax law was never Christensen’s original plan. “When I went to law school, I had no real intention of being a lawyer,” he says. “I was going for the training that law school gives on analyzing issues. But I took all the tax law courses and really enjoyed them. Now I’m working on tax law instead of a more traditional business role.”
The opportunity to give legal counsel is what Christensen most enjoys. “I help people solve their problems and create a structure that allows them to do what they need,” he says. “I assist people in coming up with a plan that protects their family and gives them some peace of mind.”
His work in tax law has opened doors and proffered several volunteer opportunities. Christensen serves on the board of directors and as corporate secretary for the Multicultural Integrated Kidney Education Program, which educates youth on the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Additionally, Christensen serves as a member of the advisory board for Shared Hope International, an organization working to prevent sex trafficking and rescue women or children who have been affected by it. “They asked me to participate because of my experience with nonprofit work and representation of a couple dozen charities,” he says. “But it is so impressive to see the number of people involved and the scope of what they’re doing.”
Christensen praises his experience at BYU and the Marriott School. He earned a BS in finance in 1991. “I enjoyed my business school experience, and I had excellent professors,” he says.
