Katherine (Kate) L. Schlinke joined the firm in 2023 and works in the Real Estate Transactions practice group in the Arlington office. Prior to joining the firm, Kate was a Texas-licensed real estate attorney and national commercial escrow officer, where she managed a portfolio of commercial real estate transactions and counseled clients on a variety of real estate and title insurance matters. She is a graduate of SMU Dedman School of Law and earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology from St. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas.  

Thank you for participating in this month’s Employee Spotlight, Kate! Tell us a little about yourself –  

1. What is your current role and how long have you been with the firm? 

I am an Associate with the Transactions practice group, and have been with the firm for almost three years. 

2. What is your favorite project that you have worked on? 

Tough question! I recently completed a few vacation and abandonment cases. I loved working directly with the County and various agencies to see these projects through the finish line. It’s also rewarding to work on cases directly impacting the community – whether they play a part in housing, retail, or grocery options. 

 3. What challenges do you frequently encounter in real estate transactions matters? 

With my background in title research (I was previously a national commercial escrow officer), tricky title questions often come my way. Sometimes it can be challenging to find a creative solution that satisfies both the title company and our client.  

 4. What advice would you give someone just starting their career in your field? 

Law is a practice that requires continuous reflection and self-improvement. Be intentional with your relationships – seek out mentors, build connections with your clients, and surround yourself with professionals from all generations. These connections will help you identify your blind spots and to grow both as a lawyer and person. 

5. What is your favorite hobby, activity, or creative outlet?  

Olympic weightlifting and powerlifting – I have been training on and off for over 10 years! 

6. What’s one skill (work-related or not) you’ve always wanted to learn, and why? 

Properly learn how to read a green and keep improving my golf game so I can defend my women’s long drive title at the BT1D Tournament!   

 7. Who or what inspires you professionally and/or personally? 

Definitely the women with our firm. They all possess qualities that I hope to mirror and grow into as I continue to develop my practice.  

 8. What aspects of Walsh, Colucci, Lubeley & Walsh make you proud to work here? 

Echoing what others have previously said, that members from other practice groups are always available to answer questions or provide further clarity on a matter in order to find the best solutions for our clients.  

Thank you, Kate!