Tax Lawyer of the Year Amanda Doucette PA G E 16 CANADA
PA G E Intellectual Property Lawyer of the Year Sandra Cabanne FRANCE 30
Women Law AWARDS 2 0 2 5 Celebrating Visionary Women in Law Welcome to the Lawyer Monthly Women in Law Awards 2025 edition. This year, we are delighted to spotlight Kristdel Bolog, Partner at The Family Lawyer and Family Lawyer of the Year, Australia, on our front cover. Guided by empathy, accountability, and a steadfast commitment to justice, Kristdel has built her practice around supporting people during their most vulnerable moments. In this feature, she reflects on her early challenges, the cases that shaped her perspective, and the human values that continue to define her work in family law. We also feature Amanda Doucette, Partner at Stevenson Hood Thornton Beaubier LLP and Tax Lawyer of the Year, Canada. Operating at the intersection of tax, estate planning, and business law, Amanda’s ability to pair technical excellence with genuine human connection has set her apart in a traditionally male-dominated field. She shares how empathy and mentorship have been the cornerstones of her success, and why authenticity is vital in shaping a lasting legal legacy. Other Notable Winners Amanda J. Brookhyser, Managing Partner at Zumpano Patricios and Trial & Litigation Lawyer of the Year, USA, has forged a career defined by courage and conviction. Known for her groundbreaking work on high-profile cases, including a landmark #MeToo verdict that expanded recognition for male victims of abuse, she continues to advocate for fairness, integrity, and diversity both inside and outside the courtroom. Sandra Cabanne, Founder of SCAN Avocats and Intellectual Property Lawyer of the Year, France, embodies innovation and international perspective. With more than two decades of experience spanning criminal, corporate, and IP law, Sandra has been repeatedly recognised by Décideurs Leader’s League, The Legal 500, and WTR 1000 for her strategic insight and tenacity. Her firm’s success on the global stage reflects her vision of modern, client-centred legal practice. Together, these remarkable women, and many more featured in this edition, represent the leadership, empathy, and resilience transforming the global legal profession. Their achievements remind us that the future of law is not only about precedent and principle but also about purpose and people. Enjoy the read! Best regards, Editor, Lawyer Monthly
Featured Winners Kristdel Bolog The Family Lawyer Lauren Smith Taylor Bracewell Solicitors Amanda Doucette Stevenson Hood Thornton Beaubier LLP Amanda J. Brookhyser Zumpano Patricios Sandra Cabanne SCAN Avocats Anne O’Connell AOC Solicitors 8 16 20 30 24 34
Family Lawyer of the Year 8 www.lawyer-monthly.com Lawyer Monthly Women in Law Awards 2025
Kristdel, can you tell us what first inspired you to pursue a career in law, and specifically, family law? My pursuit of a legal career was born from a deeply rooted sense of justice, not just in the adversarial courtroom tradition, but in those everyday human moments where someone simply needs to be seen, heard, or protected. Law, for me, was never about prestige; it was about purpose. I was always attuned to fairness and driven to create structure and clarity in moments of chaos. It became increasingly apparent that the law offered a framework through which I could meaningfully serve people during times of immense vulnerability. Family law, in particular, called to me because it is one of the few areas of law that directly impacts the day-today lives of individuals, especially children. I have seen firsthand how the breakdown of relationships does not happen in isolation. It ripples across financial security, housing, parenting, identity, and mental health. Family law engages with those complexities in a deeply personal way. It demands both legal excellence and emotional intelligence. Our role as family lawyers is not simply to advise on the division of assets or the allocation of parenting time; it is to ensure that decisions are grounded in accurate, balanced information and that the human cost of litigation is always considered. Whether I am assisting separated parents in crafting a co-parenting arrangement that reduces conflict or helping someone retain access to their family home or companion animal, the work we do shapes futures. This field carries immense responsibility, and that responsibility is what continues to inspire me every day. Australia 9 www.lawyer-monthly.com Lawyer Monthly Women in Law Awards 2025 Kristdel Bolog Q Kristdel did not pursue law for prestige or tradition. Her path was shaped by a deep commitment to justice, especially in moments when people feel vulnerable or unheard. That sense of purpose led her to family law, a field that touches every aspect of a person’s life, from parenting and housing to identity and wellbeing. With a focus on empathy, accountability, and clarity, Kristdel has built a practice grounded in both legal excellence and emotional intelligence. In this interview, she reflects on her early challenges, the cases that shaped her, and the values that guide her through the complexities of modern family law. Partner The Family Lawyer Tel: 1300 111 835 Email: kbolog@thefamilylawyer.com.au www.thefamilylawyer.com.au
Family Lawyer of the Year 10 www.lawyer-monthly.com Lawyer Monthly Women in Law Awards 2025 What were some of the biggest challenges you faced early in your career, and how did you overcome them? In hindsight, the early years of practice felt deceptively smooth, largely because I lacked the self-awareness to recognise the scope of what I did not yet know. Law school had equipped me with legal reasoning, but not with the interpersonal and emotional intelligence necessary to navigate the unpredictable terrain of family disputes. Working in family law is unlike any other jurisdiction; there is no clear binary of right and wrong, and the stakes are heartbreakingly personal. I frequently experienced imposter syndrome. I would agonise over whether I had cited the correct authority or drafted the most persuasive affidavit, questioning whether I belonged in the room. It felt like a series of first dates where you walk around hoping you do not have spinach in your teeth, except there is no mirror, and the stakes are someone’s children, home, and safety. The most difficult challenge, however, was learning how to manage emotional boundaries. As family lawyers, we are not just exposed to trauma—we are immersed in it. In the early years, I was not taught how to recognise the signs of vicarious trauma or burnout in myself or my colleagues. At that time, discussions around lawyer wellbeing were almost taboo. Through years of experience, and necessity, I developed strategies to preserve my emotional stamina. I learnt to compartmentalise without becoming desensitised, built a peer support network, and sought out supervision and debriefing. I prioritised self-reflection and developed clear boundaries with clients while still holding space for their emotional experience. These practices are not just selfpreserving; they are essential to being a clear, effective advocate. Looking back, is there a case or client that has had a lasting impact on your approach to law? There are countless matters that have left an imprint on me, but one particular case significantly reframed my understanding of justice within the family law system. I represented a father who was falsely accused of serious family violence. The allegations, in my assessment, were retaliatory in nature and appeared to be part of an effort to sever his relationship with his children. There was no corroborating evidence, only very vague assertions. Yet, based on those assertions alone, my client was evicted from his home, denied access to his personal effects, and most painfully, separated from his children. He was treated not just with suspicion, but as if he had already been convicted. It was a stark reminder of the power of narrative, and the danger of substituting allegation for evidence. Q Q
Australia 11 www.lawyer-monthly.com Lawyer Monthly Women in Law Awards 2025 That matter forever changed my approach to advocacy. It exposed the risk of procedural injustice where allegations, particularly of family violence, are accepted at face value without proper scrutiny. While I remain unwavering in my commitment to protecting genuine victims, and I have acted for many, I have also seen the misuse of complex concepts such as coercive control in ways that ultimately harm both parties and children. Cases like these are not isolated. Reports from the Australian Institute of Family Studies and recent commentary in judgments point to a growing tension between ensuring victim protection and reaffirm the need for a measured, evidence-based approach and highlighted the urgency of early intervention to prevent protracted and adversarial litigation. Family law should never become a proxy for punishment. It must remain a space for truth, justice, equitability, healing, and the best interests of children. We fought long and hard and ultimately, after three years in and out of various courts, resolved the matter with a set of orders that were beyond the client’s wildest dreams and saw his time move from mere hours a fortnight to a reversal of care. A few years after the matter concluded, I happened to run into the client and his children at a local grocery store. They were beaming, full of life, laughter, and ease. He shared that they had just returned from a family holiday, and seeing them together, smiling and thriving, was a rare and fortunate experience. In that moment, the human impact of our work was undeniable. It reminded me why we fight so hard — for restored relationships, healing, and hope. Even now, just recalling that moment brings tears of joy to my eyes. Family law can be emotionally charged and complex. What core values guide your practice when supporting clients through difficult family matters? Three values form the foundation of my practice: empathy, accountability, and respect. Empathy is not just a value; it is a practice. It means truly listening, suspending judgement, and understanding that clients often come to us in their most distressed, defensive, or fearful state. When people feel seen and heard, their anger and fear lose their grip. I tell clients regularly: it is okay to not be okay. That permission, simple as it sounds, is often the first step in helping them stabilise. “Law, for me, was never about prestige. It was about purpose. I was always attuned to fairness and driven to create structure and clarity in moments of chaos. The law offered a framework through which I could meaningfully serve people during times of immense vulnerability.” Q
Family Lawyer of the Year 12 www.lawyer-monthly.com Lawyer Monthly Women in Law Awards 2025 Accountability governs everything I do. I hold myself to a high standard, especially when the advice is difficult for the client to hear. I make a point of setting clear expectations, because unclear advice leads to disappointment and further conflict. As lawyers, our duty is not to say what is comfortable; it is to say what is necessary, backed by law and guided by integrity. Respect is non-negotiable. It extends to clients, opposing counsel, judicial officers, and the system itself. Strong advocacy does not require hostility or condescension. The most persuasive advocacy is principled, composed, and backed by evidence. Have you noticed any changes in the types of cases or client needs emerging in family law in recent years? Yes, there has been a distinct shift in the landscape of family law, both in the types of matters coming through the door and in how clients approach them. Most notably, there has been a sharp increase in family violence allegations, particularly with the broader public recognition of terms like gaslighting and coercive control. While the increased awareness is essential for acknowledging the nuanced nature of abuse, it has also led to misuse and confusion. We see this reflected in the courts, in frontline services, and in media discourse. There is often little understanding of what coercive control legally entails, and in the absence of proper guidance, these complex psychological concepts are sometimes reduced to catchphrases. In practical terms, this has resulted in a surge of interim family violence orders being granted on the basis of vague or untested allegations. The implications of such orders are profound. I have represented clients, predominantly men, who have been evicted from their homes, unable to retrieve their belongings, cut off from their children, and forced into homelessness. In some cases, the flow-on effects include job loss and severe mental health crises. Studies by the Coroners Court of Victoria and data from the ABS suggest that male suicide in the context of family law conflict and separation is an issue that remains grossly under-acknowledged. Even more troubling is the increasing tendency to treat a family violence intervention order as though it were a “parenting order” and I am hearing it referred to as such with alarming frequency. This mischaracterisation not only undermines the integrity of both legal frameworks, but also weaponises the law in a way that entrenches conflict, prolongs litigation, and causes further harm, often fuelled by misconceptions or strategic misuse. Q “Family law should never become a proxy for punishment. It must remain a space for truth, justice, equitability, healing, and the best interests of children. We have a responsibility to ensure that allegations are tested and that decisions are grounded in evidence, not emotion alone.”
Australia 13 www.lawyer-monthly.com Lawyer Monthly Women in Law Awards 2025 How does your firm balance assertive legal representation with empathy and care, especially when children are involved? At The Family Lawyer, I have championed the adoption of a child-centred, evidence-based approach that draws on both legal principles and psychological research. Our work is strongly informed by the insights of leading experts in clinical and educational psychology, ensuring our practice remains attuned to the developmental, emotional, and safety needs of children. Assertiveness in the parciate of family law, to me, means being strategic, informed, and firm in advocating for what is right. It does not mean being combative. We empower our clients with education. From the outset, we recommend that they complete parenting after separation courses, attend family therapy if appropriate, and engage proactively in understanding the impact of their behaviour on their children. We support clients in separating their emotional needs from their children’s needs. We help them distinguish between “winning” and “resolution.” Our role is to guide, not decide, and not to escalate without cause. When appropriate, we engage child experts, psychologists, and Independent Q “Empathy is not just a value. It is a practice. It means listening without judgment, holding space for people at their lowest, and understanding that their anger or fear often masks deeper pain. When clients feel seen and heard, real progress begins.”
Family Lawyer of the Year 14 www.lawyer-monthly.com Lawyer Monthly Women in Law Awards 2025 Children’s Lawyers to bring neutral insight into the matter. By staying rooted in the science and grounded in the facts, we ensure that our advocacy is not only effective but principled. As a woman working in what has historically been a male-dominated field, what unique challenges have you encountered during your legal career? I have always been cautious not to frame my professional journey purely through a gendered lens, and hold firmly in the notion of progression through merit and excellence. Juggling business ownership, client demands, school dropoffs, court appearances, and staff management often felt like maintaining a high-speed treadmill with no safety rail. And yet, as research from the Law Council of Australia and Women Lawyers Association of Victoria shows, this invisible labour is disproportionately carried by women. What helped me overcome these challenges was not seeking to emulate traditional models of success, but redefining them. I built a firm culture where flexibility and understanding, my experience has taught me that diversity is not simply about gender; it is about lived experience, values, and leadership that reflects the complexity of families and live in genernal. The juggling act is not isolated to women, but parents across the board who have to make sacrifices in spending time with their families in order to provide for them financially, as well as progress their own needs and careers. Conversely, do you feel there are distinct advantages or perspectives that women bring to family law in particular? I would say that the lived experiences many women share can be particularly valuable in the context of family law. Qualities such as empathy, active listening, adaptability, and conflict de-escalation are often more socially reinforced in women, but they are not exclusive to any gender. They are skills, not traits, and they can be developed by any committed practitioner. That said, female lawyers may bring a unique perspective to issues of caregiving, emotional labour, domestic violence, and post-separation parenting, because of their willingness to share their own experiences more freely. Family law is not a soft practice area; it is a rigorous, high-stakes jurisdiction that demands both steel and compassion. That balance is not gendered; it is professional. How has your identity and experience as a woman shaped the culture of your firm and your relationship with clients? My lived experience as a woman, mother, business owner, and legal practitioner have significantly shaped how I lead, how I advocate, and how I relate to clients. My personal experience navigating competing demands, professionally and domestically, has instilled in me a deep respect for resilience and adaptability. I understand what it means to feel overwhelmed by responsibility, to make difficult choices with imperfect information, and to face systems that do not always feel built to support your circumstances. This insight informs how I communicate with clients: with transparency, realism, and compassion. At The Family Lawyer, we have cultivated a culture grounded in authenticity and accountability. We practise what we preach—flexibility, trauma-informed service, continuous learning, and a commitment to empowering clients, not just advising them. I want clients to leave feeling not only Q Q Q “Your value as a lawyer lies not in how perfectly you cite the law, but in how effectively you use it to improve someone’s life. Family law challenges your intellect and emotional resilience in equal measure, but it also gives you the chance to create real, lasting impact.”
Australia 15 www.lawyer-monthly.com Lawyer Monthly Women in Law Awards 2025 that they received excellent legal advice, but also that they were seen and supported as whole human beings. That ethos has created a workplace where emotional intelligence and professional excellence are given equal weight. This leadership approach has also helped shape a team culture that values collaboration over hierarchy. What advice would you give to young women entering the legal profession today, especially those considering a career in family law? First and foremost: do what you love, and love what you do. The law requires passion, and family law demands it. Know the law, know the rules, and know yourself. Family law is not for the faint-hearted. It will test your intellect, your ethics, and your emotional reserves. But it will also offer some of the most meaningful and deeply human moments of your career. To young women entering the profession, especially those drawn to family law, my advice is this: embrace the full complexity of the work. Step into it with your eyes wide open, and find a mentor who will challenge and support you. There will be emotional discomfort, learn to manage it, rather than let it manage you. Build resilience through reflection, and always make space to care for yourself. Surround yourself with mentors who model integrity, not just success. Treat everyone—your clients, colleagues, support staff, opponents, and most importantly, yourself—with respect. Be kind, but do not confuse kindness for weakness. And do not fall into the trap of measuring your worth by how closely you resemble the traditional archetype of a lawyer, the brand of your shoes, or the figure on your paycheck. Measure your worth by assessing your courage, compassion, and capacity to stand firm in moments of uncertainty. Measure it by your willingness to have difficult conversations, to hold space for clients in distress, and to maintain your integrity when no one is watching. The legal profession needs practitioners who lead with both intellect and heart, who understand that true strength lies not in dominance, but in service. Success is not defined by appearances or accolades, but by the positive impact you leave on the lives you touch and the profession you shape. Above all, remember that your purpose is your compass. There will be days when you doubt yourself, when you feel, as I did early in my career, like you are walking through the courtroom with spinach in your teeth. That is normal. The key is to keep walking. Keep learning. Keep showing up. www.thefamilylawyer.com.au Q
Tax Lawyer of the Year 16 www.lawyer-monthly.com Lawyer Monthly Women in Law Awards 2025
You work at the intersection of tax, estate planning, and business law— what do you enjoy most about helping clients navigate these oftenoverlapping areas? Tax is everywhere. That being said, it is often an area that clients do not feel confident or comfortable asking questions about, or interacting with on a regular basis. I strongly believe that business owners deserve to be in control of decision-making regarding their finances. In order to do so, they need to be empowered to engage with the various provincial and federal laws that impact their decisions. It is such a joy to spend time with a client explaining the foundations of the Canadian tax system, and then watching how they start to gain confidence in asking questions, and truly starting to engage with their advisory team. I see myself as a guide and a teacher – not a decisionmaker for my clients. You specialize in advising highnet-worth individuals and ownermanaged businesses. What are some of the key considerations that make this work both rewarding and challenging? A majority of my client base consists of owner-managed businesses. These businesses tend to fall into two categories: (1) businesses that were founded/started by the particular client; or (2) businesses that have been inherited/ generational businesses. In both categories, there are some unique considerations to keep in mind as an advisor including: - The impact of “soft” issues on decision making. In multigenerational businesses, there are often issues lurking Canada 17 www.lawyer-monthly.com Lawyer Monthly Women in Law Awards 2025 Amanda Doucette Q Q At the intersection of tax, estate planning, and business law, Amanda Doucette stands out not only for her deep technical expertise but also for her ability to connect with clients on a profoundly human level. A partner at Stevenson Hood Thornton Beaubier LLP, Amanda brings a refreshingly empathetic and practical approach to advising high-net-worth individuals and owner-managed businesses—breaking down complex financial structures, facilitating tough conversations, and helping families plan for the future with clarity and confidence. In this Women in Law feature, Amanda shares the lessons she’s learned from a career built in a traditionally male-dominated field, how her personal experiences shape her client relationships, and why mentorship and authenticity are key to building a legal practice that truly makes a difference. Partner Stevenson Hood Thornton Beaubier LLP #500 – 123, 2nd Avenue South, Saskatoon SK, S7K 7E6 Tel: (306) 477-9568 | Email: adoucette@shtb-law.com www.shtb-law.com
Tax Lawyer of the Year 18 www.lawyer-monthly.com Lawyer Monthly Women in Law Awards 2025 behind the scenes that advisors need to “sniff” out to provide the best solutions for the client. Examples include hostility amongst siblings (i.e., who is the “favorite” child) and balancing the “fair versus equal” debate when determining how to gift assets on death. - The personal element to business – founders feel a personal connection to the business they have built from the ground up. This impacts how/when they choose to sell the business, how comfortable they are on taking on additional debt, and what they see as the true “value” of business - Money does not always equal less problems – instead, it usually brings different problems, and a level of complexity that is not always desired by the clients. I have been referred to as the “interpreter” for my clients – I take the complex information that they are being provided by their financial advisors and accountants, and break it down into easily digestible pieces. I also tailor the information delivery to include “why” the information matters to their business. As a partner at SHTB, how do you approach building lasting relationships with clients, particularly in areas as personal and sensitive as estate and succession planning? I went to law school because I wanted to help people, and I wanted the opportunity to be able to advocate for others. Clients are people – not just the opportunity to make money. I have always approached my career with a client-first philosophy. Practically speaking, that means: - I pick up the phone when you call. I do not use my assistant or a junior lawyer as a buffer - Not every call needs to be billed. Over the years, I have acted as a sounding board for clients on many issues, and to provide a sympathetic ear on difficult days. Each time you have a conversation with a client, you have a decision to make – do you bill it or not? - Being honest – if you are looking for a lawyer that tells you what you want to hear, then I am not the right fit for you. I believe in being honest with my clients – honest about potential pitfalls, and honest about chances of success. - I also take an interest in my clients – I love meeting new people and hearing their stories – whether you are coming to me for an estate planning engagement, or for business advice, I will take the time to learn about you as a person. Everyone is driven/motivated by certain things, and we all just want to be heard. I think it is important as a lawyer to listen more, and speak less. You’ve earned both an LL.M. in Tax Law and the TEP / STEP designation. How have these advanced qualifications shaped your approach to legal problem-solving and client strategy? The legal landscape in Canada has changed dramatically in the last decade. The Canadian Government has introduced a plethora of new tax policy which has been an incredible challenge for advisors and their clients. In addition, our client needs are becoming more complicated each year. It is rare to now have a client who was born in Saskatchewan, dies in Saskatchewan, has all their assets in Saskatchewan, all their children live in Saskatchewan, and is in their first marriage. Instead, we are increasingly faced with globalization and it is critical to understand the interactions of the laws from different jurisdictions in order properly serve the client. As a result, education (and in particular, continued education) is critical. In order to do my job properly, I keep on top of the new developments in tax, trusts, and estate planning law. I also need to be a part of a larger global network so that I have connections around the world to help support my client needs. Lastly, organizations like STEP provide an opportunity for advocacy on a larger scale. Estate planning can involve complex family dynamics, long-term financial planning, and intricate tax considerations. How do you bring clarity and calm to the process for your clients? The longer I have practiced, the more comfortable I have gotten with being authentically, “myself”. I have been Q Q Q
Canada 19 www.lawyer-monthly.com Lawyer Monthly Women in Law Awards 2025 through difficult times in my own life, including a divorce, illness and the loss of my father and grandparents within a short period of time. These personal experiences have shaped the way I enter conversations, and also given me perspective on what is truly important in life. I often joke that I use my psychology degree more than my law degree – many times, I am hired simply to provide a space of calm and to facilitate difficult conversations. I am a direct person, and I have always been comfortable asking questions and addressing the elephant in the room. I thrive off of helping people see their value within a situation, and also finding common ground. As a woman who has built a successful career in a traditionally maledominated area of law, what have been some of the key lessons or experiences that shaped your journey? For many years in the early stages of my career, I was often the only woman in the room. I had clients refuse to work with me because of my gender. When I first became partner, I was the only woman on the partnership at my firm. I am really proud to be a woman in tax. I approach things differently, and my personality is the key to my success. Instead of focusing on my gender, now I focus on my personality and my strengths – as those are the things which make me successful in my practice and in business. I used to try to be like everyone else, and now I just focus on being myself. I also have no problem addressing discrimination or inappropriate behaviour head on. Mentorship is especially important for supporting women in law. Have you been involved in mentoring other women in the profession, and what advice do you find yourself sharing most often? I feel that professionals tend to look at mentorship so formally – that you have to be a part of a formal “mentorship program”. Mentorship opportunities exist all around you – it can be as simple as sitting down next to someone you do not know at an event and introducing yourself, or making sure that a new member of a committee feels heard. I love meeting new people, and in addition to informal mentorship of other women in the profession, I also love creating opportunities to connect people. Looking ahead, what emerging trends or challenges do you see shaping the future of tax and estate law in Canada? Lawyers are concerned about the advent of AI – I agree that it will have an impact on the way we practice law. However, I also believe there will be an increased need for bespoke/ customized service. Lawyers (particularly in tax and estate law) will be utilized less for transactional work, and more as trusted advisors, helping business owners navigate through complex rules, and plan for the future. “I see myself as a guide and a teacher – not a decision-maker for my clients. My goal is to empower them to understand the tax system and take control of their financial decisions.” Q Q Q www.shtb-law.com
Trial & Litigation Lawyer of the Year 20 www.lawyer-monthly.com Lawyer Monthly Women in Law Awards 2025
Amanda, you’ve built a distinguished career in complex litigation and healthcare law. What initially drew you to these areas of practice, and what continues to motivate you today? I was drawn to litigation because I love being in a courtroom. I love the art of communication and persuasion, which is really what any case in litigation boils down to. The best litigators are those who can effectively and artfully tell their client’s story to a juror or a judge to humanize the client and create a sense of empathy and resonance with their story. I love finding new ways to tell my clients’ stories. I have also always resonated with the underdog, and when I have the chance to fight for a client who has been taken advantage of or victimized in some way, I take it personally and that fuels my dedication to them and their case. At Zumpano Patricios, we are committed to providing sophisticated legal solutions and personalized, responsive service to our clients, which aligns perfectly with my passion for advocacy and my drive to achieve the best possible outcomes. As Managing Partner, you hold a leadership role that comes with significant responsibility. How has your approach to leadership evolved over the years, and what do you believe is most essential in managing a modern law firm? I have come to realize that there is a difference between a boss and a leader. I have worked for law firms where the managing partners or owners were just bosses. The difference between that and working for a leader is that a leader acts by example. A leader never asks someone to USA 21 www.lawyer-monthly.com Lawyer Monthly Women in Law Awards 2025 Amanda J. Brookhyser Q Q Amanda J. Brookhyser, Managing Partner of Zumpano Patricios’ Las Vegas office, has built her career on the twin pillars of fearless advocacy and empathetic storytelling in the courtroom. With more than 15 years of experience in complex litigation and healthcare law, she has become a trusted voice for clients facing some of the most challenging legal battles of their lives. Brookhyser’s work has included a landmark #MeToo verdict on behalf of former Disney Channel star Ricky Garcia, a case that not only secured justice for her client but also set precedent in recognizing male victims of abuse in the entertainment industry. Beyond the courtroom, she is a committed leader and mentor, shaping the next generation of attorneys while advancing Zumpano Patricios’ reputation for sophisticated legal strategy and a culture of inclusivity. In this interview, Brookhyser speaks with Lawyer Monthly about her journey in law, the responsibilities of leadership, and the importance of diverse voices at the highest levels of the profession. Managing Partner Zumpano Patricios LAS VEGAS Tel: (702) 279-1419 | Email: abrookhyser@zplaw.com www.zplaw.com
Trial & Litigation Lawyer of the Year 22 www.lawyer-monthly.com Lawyer Monthly Women in Law Awards 2025 do something they would not be willing to do themself. If I expect you to work late or on the weekends, I am going to be right there with you. A leader is also someone who is constantly trying to improve themselves. I am always learning and trying to be better. I cannot expect my staff or associate attorneys to work to constantly improve when I am not doing that work, too. As Managing Partner of Zumpano Patricios’ Las Vegas office, I am proud to be part of a firm that values mentorship, continuous improvement, and a collaborative approach. Our national presence and deep bench of experienced attorneys allow us to offer comprehensive legal support to our clients, while fostering a culture of leadership and growth within the firm. What case are you most proud to have worked on? The case I am most proud of is representing Ricky Garcia, a former Disney Channel star and member of the boy band Forever In Your Mind, in his sexual assault lawsuit against his former manager. This landmark case resulted in a $6.5 million jury verdict in 2024 and set an important precedent as the first #MeToo-related jury verdict on behalf of a male victim in the entertainment industry. This case was particularly challenging, involving years of delay tactics by the defendant, including bankruptcy filings, and required navigating the complexities of historical sexual assault allegations. What makes this case especially meaningful is its broader impact. It not only delivered justice for Ricky but also highlighted the prevalence of abuse against male victims—an often-overlooked issue. The verdict sent a strong message about accountability and the need for greater protections for young performers. As lead trial attorney, I drew on my litigation experience to ensure our client’s voice was heard. Being part of this milestone is the highlight of my career. In your view, what are some of the unique strengths that women bring to leadership roles within law firms, particularly in high-pressure practice areas like litigation? Women are incredible leaders of law firms because we have an innate ability to juggle multiple things are once and we are consensus builders. Women are especially successful as litigators because this type of law forces you to multi-task every single day, and women are incredible at that. And while women are often accused of being overly emotional, I have seen women litigators be the most calm and collected in high-pressure cases and situations. At Zumpano Patricios, we recognize the immense value that diverse leadership brings to our firm and our clients, and we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where women can excel and lead in sophisticated legal matters. Have there been moments in your career where being a woman in law presented specific obstacles, and if so, how did you navigate those situations? As a woman, unfortunately, we are consistently underestimated. Even after practicing for more than 15 years, I still encounter attorneys who underestimate my knowledge or abilities. The only way to deal with that is to prove them wrong with the results I get for my clients. I am grateful to be part of Zumpano Patricios, a firm that values merit, results, and the unique perspectives diversity brings to the legal profession. You’ve worked extensively on both federal and state cases. How does your litigation strategy differ when navigating these two systems, and what insights have you gained from that dual experience? My litigation strategy actually does not differ depending on which court I am in. Regardless of the venue, we prepare every case from day one as if it is going to trial. This approach is consistent with Zumpano Patricios’ reputation for trying significant cases of national and international importance, and for providing clients with the highest level of preparation and advocacy in every matter we handle. “The best litigators are those who can artfully tell their client’s story to humanize them and create empathy with the jury.” Q Q Q Q
USA 23 www.lawyer-monthly.com Lawyer Monthly Women in Law Awards 2025 Mentorship can play a powerful role in shaping legal careers. Have there been mentors who made a difference in your journey, and how do you approach mentorship for the next generation of women in law? My mom has been my greatest mentor, and I always look to her for advice and reassurance. She’s been a powerful woman in a male-dominated field for decades, and so she knows the pitfalls and obstacles that I encounter based on personal experience. Additionally, my first job was working for an incredible woman who, at that point, had been litigating for approximately 25 years. I watched how she conducted herself in court and in rooms full of men as an example of how to be professional and powerful at the same time. Mentorship is essential. We all need examples of people who look like us achieving the things we hope to achieve. That is why I like to mentor others because I know firsthand how transformative it can be to have someone in your corner who understands your challenges and believes in your potential. Now that I’ve reached a higher place in my own career, I want to pay that support forward. I want to help the next generation of women lawyers navigate the same hurdles I faced, and to show them that success is possible— even in environments where they may feel outnumbered or underestimated. Mentoring allows me to share the strategies and confidence that others shared with me, and to create a more inclusive and supportive legal community for those coming up behind me. What does recognition in the Women in Law Awards mean to you personally, and how do you hope it helps highlight the value of diverse leadership in the legal profession? This recognition means a great deal to me. It serves as both a personal milestone and a reminder of the progress women have made in the legal profession. My hope is that young female attorneys see those of my generation and those before me leading law firms and winning large verdicts and they take it as an omen that not only are they going to achieve the same types of things, but also, they are going to go even farther than we have. Additionally, I hope this recognition inspires greater confidence in the unique strengths that diverse leadership brings to our field. I believe this recognition also shines a light on the value of diverse leadership and the sophisticated legal solutions our firm provides to clients nationwide. “A leader never asks someone to do something they wouldn’t do themselves; if I expect you to work late, I’ll be right there with you.” Q Q www.zplaw.com
Female Led Law Firm of the Year 24 www.lawyer-monthly.com Lawyer Monthly Women in Law Awards 2025
Winning Female-Led Law Firm of the Year is no small feat. What does this recognition mean to you personally and to the firm as a whole? Winning Female-Led Law Firm of the Year is an incredible honour that means a great deal both personally and professionally. For me, it’s a powerful affirmation of the decision to set up my own boutique employment law firm in 2017 and the years of dedication, resilience, and vision it has taken from our team as a whole to grow and develop the firm. Since the formation of AOC Solicitors, it has grown from a team of three with only one solicitor to the current team of nine, five of whom are solicitors, together with a dedicated Practice Manager. Any time someone refers to me having set up on my own, I always correct them—I didn’t set up on my own; I had a Ireland 25 www.lawyer-monthly.com Lawyer Monthly Women in Law Awards 2025 Anne O’Connell Q Anne O’Connell is the Founder and Principal of Anne O’Connell Solicitors (AOC Solicitors), a boutique employment law firm based in Dublin. With over two decades of experience in employment law, Anne has built a reputation as a trusted advisor to both employers and employees, handling complex workplace disputes, high-profile litigation, and strategic HR matters. Since establishing AOC Solicitors in 2017, Anne has led the firm’s growth from a three-person team to a thriving practice of nine, including five solicitors and a dedicated Practice Manager. The firm is widely recognised for its specialist expertise, client-focused approach, and forward-thinking culture, offering tailored legal solutions in all areas of employment law. Under Anne’s leadership, AOC Solicitors has become one of Ireland’s leading boutique employment law practices, earning recognition from Legal 500 as a Tier 2 firm and achieving a five-star client satisfaction ranking. Known for its emphasis on teamwork, inclusivity, and innovation, the firm continues to set itself apart in Ireland’s competitive legal landscape. Founder AOC Solicitors 19-22 Lower Baggot Street, Dublin 2 | Tel: +353 (0)1 2118434 Email: anne@aocsolicitors.ie / info@aocsolicitors.ie www.aocsolicitors.ie
Female Led Law Firm of the Year 26 www.lawyer-monthly.com Lawyer Monthly Women in Law Awards 2025 lot of help and support from the start. I believe that strength is in a team and that our firm’s strength lies in the team we have built—a wheel needs its spokes to turn. As a firm, we are all delighted to receive this award, as it recognises the forward-thinking culture we have tried to foster since our establishment in 2017. Take us back to the beginning; what inspired the creation of AOC Solicitors, and how did your founding values shape the culture of the firm today? The inspiration to start the firm came from a desire to create a legal practice that not only delivered exceptional results for clients but also redefined what leadership, inclusivity, and integrity look like in the legal profession. I wanted to build something different: a firm where collaboration was prioritised over competition and where values mattered as much as outcomes. From day one, our founding values—excellence, authenticity, accountability, and respect—have been the backbone of our culture. They influence everything from how we approach client relationships to how we nurture our team. Those early principles created a foundation of trust and purpose, and they continue to guide us as we grow. What are some of the unique challenges and advantages you’ve encountered as a female-led legal team in Ireland’s legal landscape? I think that setting up and leading your own firm is always very challenging, but thankfully it has also been hugely rewarding. The challenges we have encountered will likely mirror those of most other new firms trying to establish themselves in a competitive market. It has been a real pleasure to navigate those challenges together as a team where everyone’s voice matters and everyone values the importance of good communication and collaboration. This helps to create an environment conducive to dealing with any challenges that arise. When setting up the firm, I drew inspiration from the quote by Kobi Yamada: “She turned her ‘can’ts into ‘cans’, her dreams into plans,” and this quote kept me going when faced with challenges. I would also add to this quote that, with the support of my team, “she turned her plans into reality.” Q Q
Ireland 27 www.lawyer-monthly.com Lawyer Monthly Women in Law Awards 2025 The legal sector isn’t always known for rapid evolution. How has AOC Solicitors managed to challenge industry norms and redefine what leadership looks like? When AOC Solicitors was established in 2017, boutique employment law firms were not the norm. I felt employment law had the potential to lend itself well to such a setting. Thankfully, this proved to be the case and, through the hard work of our team and loyalty of our clients, we managed to challenge the norm by establishing ourselves within the market and growing the firm to what it is today. In terms of redefining leadership, we believe that real leadership is about promoting and supporting teamwork, and we try to adopt that approach in our day-to-day work. We also try to maintain an environment where all team members (regardless of seniority) communicate openly about aspects of their work that are going well and aspects they are finding challenging. This allows us all to both help and learn from each other. We try to be forward-thinking and flexible in the approach we take to how we work. For example, when the firm was established in 2017, most law firms still operated in a very traditional workspace with traditional working hours. Our firm is proud to have been ahead of its time in introducing options such as remote and flexible working very soon after our establishment, and long before Covid. These benefits have helped us along the way in attracting and retaining the right people for the right roles. You’re clearly paving the way for future female leaders in law. How important is mentorship within your firm, and how do you ensure women continue to rise through the ranks? Mentorship is absolutely central to our firm’s ethos—it’s not just something we encourage, it’s something we actively build into our structure and culture. I remind new members of our team that “the only stupid question is the question that you do not ask.” We believe that true leadership isn’t just about reaching the top; it’s about holding the door open for others to follow. That mindset drives everything we do when it comes to supporting the next generation of female leaders in law. We ensure women continue to rise through the ranks by creating clear, transparent pathways to leadership, offering meaningful development opportunities, and pairing junior lawyers with mentors who are invested in their growth. We focus on more than just technical skill—we nurture confidence, resilience, and strategic thinking. What does a modern, inclusive, and high-performing legal workplace look like to you, and how have you built that at AOC Solicitors? To me, a modern, inclusive, and high-performing legal workplace is one where diversity is genuinely valued, voices “I wanted to create a firm where collaboration was prioritised over competition and where values mattered as much as outcomes. From day one, excellence, authenticity, accountability, and respect have been the backbone of our culture and continue to guide us as we grow.” Q Q Q
Female Led Law Firm of the Year 28 www.lawyer-monthly.com Lawyer Monthly Women in Law Awards 2025 What’s one piece of advice you wish you could give your younger self and today’s aspiring female lawyers? One piece of advice I wish I could give my younger self—and every aspiring female lawyer today—is this: trust your gut and have confidence in your own ability. You don’t need validation from everyone. In the early stages of your career, it’s easy to feel like you have to constantly prove yourself or seek validation before believing in yourself and your abilities. But the truth is, your perspective, your intuition, and your ideas are valuable right now—regardless of what others think. Also, don’t underestimate the power of community. Surround yourself with people who challenge and uplift you, seek out mentors, and don’t be afraid to be a mentor to others, even as you’re growing. Success in law doesn’t have to come at the expense of authenticity, compassion, or balance. You can lead with strength and still stay true to who you are. are heard at every level, and people feel empowered to bring their whole selves to work—without compromising on excellence. It’s an environment where collaboration thrives, innovation is encouraged, and success is measured not just by billable hours or outcomes, but by the wellbeing, growth, and engagement of the team. At AOC Solicitors, we foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity and empowers our team to reach their full potential. We meet as a team at least three times a week, and these meetings are invaluable in terms of ensuring good communication and efficiencies in circumstances where we operate on a hybrid working model. However, we also utilise these meetings to put our heads together and tease out any complex issues that any of us are considering in relation to a particular case. This allows us to harness a combined total of over five decades of specialist Employment Law experience and apply it to any complicated legal issue our clients encounter. We also have regular dedicated Team Days to review how we operate as a team and how best to work together to optimise team performance. We believe that a positive and motivated team translates into better service for our clients. When people feel respected, heard, and valued, they do their best work—and that’s the culture we’ve worked hard to build. “Winning Female-Led Law Firm of the Year is a powerful affirmation of our team’s resilience, vision, and the culture we’ve built together.” “Mentorship is central to our ethos. True leadership isn’t just about reaching the top; it’s about holding the door open for others to follow.” Q
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