Bob Rawlings Onghetich is a distinguished legal professional with a rich educational background and a career marked by significant achievements in law and diplomacy. Born and raised in Eastern Uganda, Bob developed a passion for justice and legal practice at an early age, driving his lifelong commitment to excellence and innovation in the legal arena.
Bob began his legal education with a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) from Uganda Christian University and obtained a Post Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice, which equipped him with practical skills essential for the legal profession and to be called to the bar in Uganda.
To deepen his expertise, Bob earned a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Dispute Resolutions from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law, specializing in negotiations, mediations, arbitration, and conflict resolution. His academic journey culminated at the University of Notre Dame Law School, where he received his Juris Doctor (J.D.).
Bob got his start as a diplomat in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kampala, Uganda, serving from 2011 to 2016. During his tenure, he notably advised the foreign affairs minister on international trade and economic cooperation, as well as the implementation of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and U.N. Security Council sanctions on individuals and businesses. He negotiated bilateral agreements between the Ugandan government and foreign governments and managed commercial and employment litigation, both foreign and domestic, on behalf of the ministry. Bob also represented Uganda in negotiations for the Paris Agreement and the World Trade Organization (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement.
Bob is a corporate associate with Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP, where he serves as dedicated legal counsel to businesses and investors, focusing on transactions. He is experienced in closing mergers and acquisitions, financial deals, and other commercial transactions for both private and public companies. His role involves providing strategic legal advice, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, and facilitating successful business outcomes.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Bob is deeply committed to community service and volunteering. He actively participates in pro bono work in estate planning clinics, immigration, and guardianship matters.
When not immersed in his professional pursuits, Bob enjoys Notre Dame football, spending time with his wife Julia and their three children, Tim, Nile, and Novi, and mountain biking. He believes in maintaining a balanced life and often finds inspiration in these activities.
