Geoffrey worked with many banks in structuring and documenting loan transactions and advising on problem loans. He also worked very closely with businesses, counseling them on preventative measures, financing arrangements, and dealings with banks, suppliers, and customers. He advised financially troubled businesses and Chapter 11 debtors in negotiating and implementing work-outs with their secured and unsecured creditors. He also advised businesses on general corporate matters, contract issues, and mergers and acquisitions. Geoffrey was a member of the American Bar Association, Indiana State Bar Association Bankruptcy and Creditors' Rights Section and the Elkhart City Bar Association.
Geoffrey received his B.A. in economics from Dartmouth College in 1968. He attended Indiana University Law School Bloomington, graduating with a J.D. in 1971.
Geoffrey is the third generation of his family to practice law in Elkhart. His former law firm, Church, Nilsson & Paulen, merged with Barnes & Thornburg in 1988, substantially increasing the size of the Elkhart office.