ABOUT

RICK TAPPAN

Rick C. Tappan graduated from Gonzaga University School of Law with honors and was a member of the Gonzaga Journal of International Law. He received his undergraduate degree in geology from Northern Arizona University and practiced environmental consulting as a Professional Geologist before attending Gonzaga.

Mr. Tappan represents numerous clients from individual landowners with single-issue property disputes to large businesses with complex permitting and land-use demands. Mr. Tappan is admitted to practice before all Montana Courts, the United States District Court for the District of Montana, and the United States Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.

Mr. Tappan practiced as an environmental consultant and Professional Geologist prior to practicing law. Areas of practice include commercial litigation, property litigation, natural resource litigation, private and public lands issues and water law. He is a proud husband and father of six children, and enjoys hiking, camping, and floating throughout Montana’s bountiful lands and waters.

Proven track record of positive outcomes for clients in Montana Water Court, District Courts and Montana Supreme Court. Significant scientific and technical background and expertise in water related disciplines.

JULIA PHARMER

Miss Pharmer joined Tappan Law Firm, PLLC as a paralegal in 2022. She received her B.A. in Political Science with a minor in Nonprofit Studies from Kent State University in 2019. Prior to becoming a certified paralegal, Julia worked in the local nonprofit sector primarily focusing on administration and fundraising.

With extensive customer service experience and great attention to detail, Miss Pharmer is dedicated to supporting clients throughout the entirety of their cases. In her free time, she loves creating art, thrifting, listening to music and true crime podcasts, and spending lots of quality time with her friends and rescue pets, Ozzy and Zero.

Connlan W. Whyte

Connlan W. Whyte received his J.D. and Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Montana School of Law. Mr. Whyte graduated with pro bono honors and was an editor for the Public Land and Resources Law Review. He received his undergraduate degree in social studies education from Montana State University.

Prior to joining Tappan Law Firm, Mr. Whyte worked as a Law Clerk for the Honorable Sam E. Haddon of the United States District Court for the District of Montana. He also served as a summer law clerk for the Montana Water Court and as a legal intern for the Flathead Lake Biological Station. Mr. Whyte is admitted to practice before all Montana Courts.

Mr. Whyte received certificates in tribal and environmental law from the University of Montana and practices natural resource, water, property, administrative, land-use, and commercial law. Outside of the office, Mr. Whyte enjoys rock climbing, backpacking, and hunting throughout Montana’s public lands.