Empathy, Integrity, and Resilience: An Authority Magazine Tell All

My calling to the field of law is defined by empathy, integrity, and resilience. These are the character traits I gave Eric Pines in a recent interview with Authority Magazine, when he asked me which of my unique qualities were instrumental in becoming a successful attorney. 

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In the interview series, “The 5 Things You Need To Become A Top Lawyer In Your Specific Field of Law,” I had the opportunity to share my journey and the principles that guide my practice. Here’s a deeper look into what drives me, and some advice for lawyers who are just starting their careers.

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A Habit of Standing Up to Bullies

My path to law was undeniably influenced by personal adversities. Growing up in an environment marked by familial discord and abuse, I witnessed the harsh impacts of bullying and domestic violence firsthand. This tumultuous backdrop ignited a profound desire within me to stand up for those who couldn't defend themselves. Witnessing the relentless abuse by my father ignited a profound desire to advocate for those that couldn’t stand up for themselves. This pivotal moment steered me towards a career in family law.

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For young lawyers, it’s important to recognize that your past experiences shape who you are and can be a powerful motivator. Use your personal story to fuel your passion and commitment to the field. 

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Impact is Impact, Even if it Seems Small

My primary motivation in this challenging work stems from a deep-seated desire to make a tangible difference in people's lives, especially for children caught in the crossfire of family disputes. If I can help one client, who was like my mother, and help her avoid harm to her children, I have done my job. This belief drives my approach to cases ranging from custody battles to complex issues involving allegations of abuse.

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To those just starting out, remember that making a difference doesn’t always mean winning every case. It means doing everything in your power to protect and advocate for your clients. Focus on the impact you can make, no matter how small it may seem at the time.

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Character Traits that Define My Practice

Now circling back to three character traits that have been instrumental to my success as an attorney: empathy, integrity, and resilience. My capacity for empathy enables me to genuinely understand and connect with my clients and their families. Integrity ensures I adhere strictly to my ethical obligations, and resilience allows me to navigate the often grueling nature of legal disputes effectively. These qualities ensure that my practice is not just about legal victories but about making positive changes in people’s lives.

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For aspiring lawyers, developing these traits will serve you well. Empathy helps you connect with clients, integrity builds trust, and resilience keeps you going when the going gets tough.

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Does It Need to Be Ivy?

Eric asked me a question I think most every lawyer has asked themselves: How important is it for a lawyer to go to a top-tier school—and do I think it has any bearing on my own success? When it comes to choosing a law school, there's a lot of talk about how much the school's prestige matters. The truth is, it depends on your field of law. For certain legal paths, especially those aiming for big law firms, the pedigree of your law school can help you get your foot in the door. But that’s all it does — it opens the door. It’s up to you to decide whether you’ll just tiptoe through it or kick it wide open.

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In my experience as a Family Law Attorney, the name on your diploma isn’t what counts. What truly matters is your skill set, your knowledge, your judgment, and most importantly, your passion for the field. These are the elements that drive success. Law school provides a foundation, but it doesn’t teach you how to be a lawyer. It doesn’t show you how to file motions effectively or handle a stalling opposing counsel. It certainly doesn’t prepare you to stand confidently in front of 180 people to pick a jury. These are skills you develop on the job, in the trenches of the courtroom.

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If you’re not cut out to be a litigator, no top-tier education or study sessions will truly make that difference. In the end, it’s about having the courage and the tenacity to perform under pressure. The practical aspects of law practice are learned through experience, not in a lecture hall. Focus on honing your practical skills, gaining real-world experience, and nurturing your passion for the field. That’s what will make you a successful lawyer.

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Advice for the Future

My goal for the future is to expand the reach of my work, ensuring it touches not just those who enter my courtroom but also the broader community. By leveraging my expertise to educate and empower, I aim to help clients and the public navigate and function within the legal system more effectively.

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Here’s my advice: Never lose sight of why you chose this path. Stay true to your values, and let your passion drive you. The legal profession is challenging, but it is also incredibly rewarding. Every case, every client, and every challenge is an opportunity to make a difference. Remember, your work is not just a career; it’s a calling. Commit to making a real, tangible difference in the lives of those you serve, and you will find fulfillment in every step of your journey.

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If you’ve just entered the field of law, I encourage you to embrace your experiences, stay committed to making a difference, and always practice with empathy, integrity, and resilience. The legal world needs passionate and dedicated individuals like you. Together, we can create a more just and compassionate system for everyone.

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