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.
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 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.
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.
