You have been involved with EMLF events and committees. Has that involvement benefited you?  If so, how? EMLF educational opportunities are always worthwhile. The level of knowledge shared by professionals is consistently excellent. I am usually able to learn something new and relevant to my practice, as well as something new and interesting that may not be immediately relevant to my practice, but that broadens my overall knowledge of the industry. Additionally, the opportunities for networking and socializing are great ways to get to know folks in the industry in a non-work setting.
Looking back, what two or three things have been most helpful to you in developing as a lawyer?  Because I started my own practice early in my career, the most helpful thing was trusting myself to handle difficult matters. Part of trusting myself was and is knowing when I may be a bit out of my range and needing to reach out to other attorneys with relevant experience. Typically, it’s a matter of being pointed in the right direction. Having someone with more experience point me in the right direction has been invaluable in developing my instincts as an attorney. Another way of saying this is, not being afraid to ask for help is one of the most helpful things in my development as an attorney. Another thing that has been helpful in my development as a lawyer is staying focused on the goal, which is to provide the best assistance for the client as possible. Being overworked, overtired, burned out and frustrated does not enable me to provide the best possible assistance to my clients, so I seek to avoid those things – which is why being self-employed works for me.
Is there any advice you would give to new lawyers and law students who are about to become lawyers? See above – don’t be afraid to ask for help! Most experienced lawyers I’ve reach out to over the years are happy to give it!