10 www.lawyer-monthly.com Personal Injury Lawyer of the Year There was this amazing resource that came to my rescue – the “duty desk” at the probate court. This was a gamechanger. I’d show up every week with a handful of cases, and the magistrates there would guide me on how to navigate the probate issues. It was this support that gave me the push to go solo and start my own practice. The whole experience empowered me to take a leap and set up my own gig. It wasn’t just about the legal side of things; it was about connecting with people on a personal level and showing them that their stories mattered. And that’s how I got to where I am today – recognized by the Lawyer Monthly Women in Law award. This award isn’t just a personal achievement; it’s a symbol of the impact we can make when we approach law with empathy and determination. Looking back, I’m grateful for the twists and turns that led me here. My journey is a blend of passion, the desire to help, and a bit of fate. Each case I’ve taken on has been a chance to make a difference, to bring justice where it’s needed most. This award is more than an honor; it’s a reminder that every step I’ve taken was worth it. And if my story can inspire others to stand up for what they believe in and use the law to create positive change, then I consider that a wonderful bonus. What or who inspired you to pursue a career in law, and were there any female role models in particular who influenced your decision? After finishing my undergrad, I was honestly at a bit of a crossroads. I was juggling jobs as a server and a nanny, just trying to make ends meet while navigating my uncertain future. Those gigs helped pay the bills, but they weren’t exactly lighting a fire in me. What really got me going were those college classes where we’d sit down and talk openly about ideas. You know, the ones that felt more like conversations than lectures. The technical stuff and science labs weren’t really my jam. I wanted something that let me engage, discuss, and explore, and that’s where law school came into the picture. I guess you could say my path to law was less of a straight line and more of a collection of dots that connected over time. The idea that law could be this platform for meaningful conversations and advocating for what’s right just made sense to me. It was like finding that missing puzzle piece that suddenly made the whole picture make sense. Oh, let me tell you – women inspire me in so many ways, it’s almost hard to put into words. It’s like a daily dose of empowerment that keeps me going. I’m a bit of a documentary and biography buff, when you dive into the lives of successful women, it’s like stepping into a world of awe and wonder. What I’ve noticed is that these women, they share this common thread of determination. They aren’t afraid of failing because they know it’s just another step towards success. And what’s even more incredible is that they don’t waste time on excuses. They face challenges head-on, roll up their sleeves, and get things done. That’s the kind of spirit I want to embody every single day. It’s not about being perfect or having all the answers – it’s about pushing forward, learning from mistakes, and standing up for what you believe in. The strength and grace that women bring to the table is a force to be reckoned with, and I’m just grateful to be part of that tribe. So, whether it’s the daily grind or those big decisions, I look to these women who’ve blazed trails and left their mark. They remind me that anything is possible when you’re driven, fearless, and committed to making a difference. And that’s exactly the kind of person I strive to be, both in and out of the legal world. “It’s not about being perfect or having all the answers – it’s about pushing forward, learning from mistakes, and standing up for what you believe in.”
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