The Erik Allen Show Fight For Fairness | Tim Semelroth | Ep. 302
Have you ever felt like life’s biggest challenges leave you at the mercy of systems designed to work against you? For Tim Semelroth, a trial attorney with RSH Legal, fighting for fairness isn’t just a slogan—it’s a life mission. In a career spanning over two decades, Tim has dedicated himself to standing up for people when they need it most. From his upbringing in Iowa to leading the state’s top personal injury law firm, his story proves that purpose and empathy make all the difference.
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Key Discussion Points:
- Fight For Fairness
- Finding Purpose
- Power Of Empathy
- Mock Trials
- Breaking The Fear
- Being Authentic
- Work Life Balance
- Advise for Aspiring Leaders
- Faith Works
- How To Connect With Clients
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Humble Beginnings in Iowa
Tim’s roots trace back to “Hiawatha, Iowa,” where he grew up as the oldest of five kids in a working-class neighborhood. His dad worked in a factory, his mom was a school teacher, and his childhood mirrored the freedoms and simplicity of 1970s and 80s America. Like many kids of that era, he remembers being out all day with friends, only coming home when the streetlights turned on.
That upbringing laid the foundation for the sense of community and fairness Tim brings to his work today.
Finding Purpose in the Legal World
Faith played a guiding role in Tim’s journey. Raised in Catholic schools, he was taught to view life through a lens of integrity and care for others. But it wasn’t until he was deciding what kind of lawyer to become that his faith truly influenced his career path.
“Some lawyers work for corporations or the government doing necessary and honorable work, but I felt drawn to something different,” Tim said. He wanted to give a voice to people facing unimaginable challenges. This sense of purpose has fueled his career ever since.
The Story Behind RSH Legal
RSH Legal, Iowa’s #1 personal injury law firm, wasn’t always the big operation it is today. Tim was the first hire at the firm when its founders built it from the ground up. Starting with just three lawyers, RSH Legal has grown to 17 attorneys, three offices, and 40 staff members—but the mission remains unchanged: “Fighting for fairness.”
The firm represents people injured through no fault of their own, individuals with disabilities, and families who’ve lost loved ones due to others’ negligence. For Tim, each case is deeply personal. “We’re here to speak for those who can’t speak for themselves,” he shared.
Mock Trials That Changed the Game
Tim’s legal passion was sparked unexpectedly as a teenager. At 14, he participated in a mock trial program introduced at his school. What started as a teacher’s ploy to keep him out of trouble became the catalyst for his career.
This experience was so impactful that Tim has spent nearly three decades volunteering as a mock trial coach. From working with middle school students to mentoring high school teams and coaching his own kids, Tim believes mock trials bring the legal system to life for young minds.
In fact, four current lawyers at RSH Legal are former mock trial students of Tim. Talk about full circle!
Why “Fighting for Fairness” Is Everything
Tim’s approach to his work revolves around one idea: fairness. But achieving that often feels like an uphill battle, especially when insurance companies prioritize profits over people.
“Insurance companies are not designed to give you a fair shake. They exist to make profits for shareholders,” Tim explains. This is where his role becomes invaluable. As a guide, he helps clients understand what they’re entitled to and ensures their stories are heard.
For Tim, telling clients’ stories isn’t just his job—it’s his “secret weapon.” By deeply understanding his clients’ lives, he can present their stories authentically, whether to an insurance company, judge, or jury.
What Makes RSH Legal Different
RSH Legal’s team is dedicated to telling authentic stories that showcase clients as real people—not case numbers. They take time to visit clients’ homes, interview loved ones, and learn about the unique roles these individuals play in their families and communities.
Tim emphasizes that the line separating any of us from tragedy is far thinner than we like to admit. “Terrible things can happen to anyone,” he said. The team’s goal is to craft real, relatable stories that resonate with decision-makers, ensuring clients get the help they need.
Tackling the Fear of Lawyers
Tim has noticed a common thread when it comes to lawyers: fear. Many people hesitate to reach out, assuming the process will be overly formal, expensive, or intimidating.
“I always remind people—the initial consultation is free,” Tim says. His team works hard to break down barriers, creating a space where clients feel comfortable and heard.
He also makes it clear that his role isn’t to pressure clients but to lay out their options and let them decide what’s best.
Lessons from Life and Family
As a dedicated husband and father of three, Tim balances his professional success with lessons learned at home. Married to his high school sweetheart, Tim credits his wife for being a supportive partner who allows him to thrive in his career.
For his kids, now teens and young adults, Tim says the biggest lesson is letting them carve out their own paths. “Just because I enjoyed high school and college a certain way doesn’t mean their journey needs to look the same,” he says.
His time coaching them in mock trial, coupled with seeing them develop their unique interests, has solidified his belief in individuality.
What’s Next for Tim
Tim looks forward to the next phase of life as his kids grow older and he explores potential opportunities for teaching or working from anywhere with an internet connection. But in the short term, he’s excited for the holidays—having his college-aged kids home under one roof makes this time of year truly special.
Conclusion
Tim Semelroth’s story reminds us that fairness, empathy, and purpose aren’t just talking points. They can guide us through life’s challenges and inspire us to be better for the people around us. Whether he’s advocating for clients, mentoring young minds, or spending time with family, Tim lives by the values he promotes.
Stay inspired, stay connected, and keep fighting for fairness in your own life.
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