Barney Holtzman’s journey into law began in middle school when a civics teacher
suggested he’d make a great lawyer, sparking his interest in the profession.

Born in Columbus, Ohio, Barney and his family moved to Tucson when he was just 1.
He studied political science at Duke University, attending every home basketball game
and becoming a lifelong fan. His most daring move was wearing a Duke shirt and hat in
McKale Center during the Duke-Arizona game in 1987. He also dared to bring his Duke
paraphernalia to his office in 2010 before the Duke-Arizona national championship
game and was booed in the elevator!

After graduation from Duke, he returned to Tucson to attend law school and graduated
magna cum laude.

Barney is a partner at Mesch Clark Rothschild, where he represents both businesses
and employees in employment law. His favorite part of the job is learning about his
clients’ businesses and solving problems, often through nonlegal means such as
relationship and communication strategies. He enjoys helping his clients navigate legal
challenges while holistically addressing underlying issues. A dedicated lawyer and
community leader with 30 years of legal experience, he adds how crucial it is to learn
about others and to see them beyond a label.

Although Barney is a new volunteer to our Volunteer Lawyers Program, he is far from
new to volunteering and community service, which extends beyond his legal practice.
He has held leadership roles with the Tucson Jewish Community Center and Ben’s
Bells. In addition, this year, he and colleague Thom K. Cope helped re-introduce our
Employment Law Advice-Only Clinic.

When he is not working, Barney enjoys playing basketball — including the teamwork
and good-natured trash talking! — hiking, and spending time with his family. His
proudest accomplishment is his close relationship with his wife and three daughters.
Trixie, the family pup, keeps them all laughing.