About Us

About JVAM

At JVAM, we are guided by a clear vision and a strong set of values. Our goal is to be the premier law firm in the Rocky Mountains—respected for our legal expertise, trusted by our clients, and recognized as an outstanding place to build a legal career.

We believe excellence is rooted in shared values. At every level of our firm, we strive to embody:

• Professionalism – We lead by example, setting high standards for conduct and inspiring those around us to do the same.

• Integrity – We honor our commitments and uphold our principles in every interaction.

• Quality – We deliver legal work of the highest caliber—thoughtful, precise, and effective.

• Team – We succeed by collaborating, supporting one another, and working together across roles.

• Service – We are dedicated to our clients, our communities, and our colleagues.

• Wellness – We invest in the wellbeing of our people so they can consistently show up as their best selves.

With offices in Aspen, Basalt, Buena Vista, Fraser | Winter Park, Glenwood Springs, and Salida, JVAM serves clients throughout the Roaring Fork Valley, the Arkansas River Valley, Grand County, and across Colorado. Whether you’re a business owner, property holder, water rights user, or individual seeking legal counsel, JVAM offers the depth of experience and regional knowledge to support your goals.

A Modern Approach Rooted in Mountain Communities

Our attorneys are known not only for their legal sophistication, but also for being practical, approachable, and deeply attuned to the unique dynamics of life and business in Colorado’s mountain towns.

We advise clients in a wide range of practice areas, including:

• Real Estate Transactions & Development
• Business & Corporate Law
• Water Law
• Land Use & Zoning
• Civil Litigation
• Construction
• Municipal & Special Districts
• Estate Planning & Probate
• Home Owners’ Associations

Our team is committed to delivering solutions that are thoughtful, cost-effective, and designed to help you move forward with confidence.

Learn more about our Attorneys and Staff, or Contact Us to speak with someone directly.

Our Story

Founded in 2021, JVAM began as Johnston | Van Arsdale | Martin, created by three partners—Lucas Van Arsdale, Benjamin Johnston, and Casey Martin—who shared a vision for a modern law firm rooted in community, excellence, and workplace culture.

In 2022, JVAM welcomed Ryan Jarvis, Jeff Houpt, and their team through a strategic merger that expanded our reach and added to our bench of experienced attorneys. That year, we also welcomed Steve Beattie (Of Counsel) and Eric Theile (Partner). Following decades of service, Jeff Houpt retired in the summer of 2022.

As our reputation grew, so did our team:

• Chad Lee (Partner) joined in 2022, bringing depth and experience across key practice areas.

• In 2023, Ann Jefferson and Alex Clayden were named partners in recognition of their leadership and contributions.

• In 2024, Laurel Quinto and Margaret Casey were also named partners.

In 2025, JVAM expanded into Grand County with the addition of Kent Whitmer, Sean Lemieux and the team from The Whitmer Law Firm. The Fraser | Winter Park office added attorneys Katie Randall, Jessica Karikas, and Cooper Gehle to the firm, with Kent and Sean joining as partners.

Today, JVAM is home to 22 attorneys and a dedicated team of 10 staff, proudly serving as a trusted legal resource throughout Colorado’s high country.

Join Our Team

If you’re an attorney, paralegal, or legal professional looking to join a forward-thinking, values-driven firm—one that offers challenging work, meaningful relationships, and a lifestyle rooted in Colorado’s mountain communities—we’d love to hear from you.

Explore Careers at JVAM to learn more.