Sean Haase Oliva

As a corporate paralegal at Avisen Legal, I bring a mix of analytical thinking, organizational skills, and a strong eagerness to learn. I joined Avisen to explore the connection between business and law while gaining hands-on experience before deciding on law school. With a degree in philosophy from the University of Minnesota and a minor in political science, I’ve always been drawn to the balance between structure and interpretation that makes law so interesting. 

Coming from a family deeply rooted in the legal field – my dad is a lawyer, and my sister is a paralegal – I’ve always been intrigued by the profession. Avisen Legal’s focus on business law felt like the perfect opportunity to dive into areas like corporate transactions and compliance without the immediate leap into litigation. 

Before joining Avisen, I worked at the Center for Climate Literacy, a nonprofit at the University of Minnesota. I handled fundraising and grant management, helping to support climate education initiatives through a literature-based approach. That experience sparked my interest in how businesses can work with environmental efforts, which made Avisen and its growing energy law practice a great fit for me. 

My background in both nonprofit and business environments has given me a unique perspective on how organizations operate and how legal frameworks support their growth. I enjoy using my skills to help keep legal processes running smoothly while exploring how business law can play a role in addressing climate-related challenges. 

I’m naturally organized and detail-oriented, which helps me stay on top of tasks and ensure that both clients and attorneys have the support they need. Whether it’s keeping track of deadlines with my task board or diving into new projects, I thrive in structured environments that allow me to contribute effectively. 

Outside of work, I love spending time outdoors, especially backpacking across different states. I also enjoy reading fantasy novels, playing guitar, and staying active. One of my favorite hobbies is baking—something I picked up while working at my mom’s Mexican-American fusion bakery, where I perfected recipes like Ancho Chile Brownies.