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Here are 24 On the Rise honorees being recognized for early-career accomplishments by South Florida attorneys under age 40 as of Jan. 1.

They will be among the award recipients at the Daily Business Review's annual Professional Excellence Awards being presented May 23 at the Rusty Pelican in Miami.

Liz Somerstein Adler

LIZ SOMERSTEIN ADLER 

Title: Senior Counsel

Experience: Greenspoon Marder, 2010-present

Education: University of Miami, 2009; Emory University, 2006

What drew you to a career in law? I come from a family of lawyers (12 now, and counting…); it is in my blood.

Have you set a specific goal that you want to achieve in the next year? I am extremely passionate about sustainability and resiliency, particularly in South Florida. I am serving my fourth term on Fort Lauderdale's Sustainability Advisory Board. I am credentialed as a LEED Green Associate and in progress to obtain my credential as a LEED AP BD+C. My hope is to incorporate the principles of sustainability and resiliency deeper within my practice of real estate and land use.

What has been your proudest career moment and your biggest hurdle? My proudest moment was winning my first jury trial, which I handled while I was (very) pregnant.

Where do you fit on a 1-10 work-life balance scale with 10 being nirvana? Please explain.  8. I am fortunate to work at a firm that has great respect for family and encourages a work-life balance.

What is the top quality that you've used to succeed in the profession? Being detail-oriented and kind.

Who is your favorite mentor and why? My dad, Barry Somerstein. He is the smartest lawyer I have ever met; he always gives no-nonsense advice and guidance.

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you? My mom's advice: “You are never challenged beyond your ability to succeed.”

What trends are you observing in the profession that you're excited about? Advancements in both accommodations and flexibility for working mothers.

If I weren't a lawyer, I'd be … A professional artist or crafter!

 

Lauren Alexander

LAUREN ALEXANDER

Title: Senior Associate

Experience:  Weil, Gotshal & Manges, 2008-present

Education: University of Miami, 2008; University of New Hampshire, 2005

What drew you to a career in law? During college I took a few law classes and quickly realized that an understanding of the law, together with advocacy skills, allows you to problem solve and create change.

Have you set a specific goal that you want to achieve in the next year? I hope to continue to lead Weil's Miami office in the representation of victims of human trafficking who are seeking to expunge their criminal records. We have been extraordinarily successful over the past couple of years in litigating these issues of first impression and achieving positive outcomes for our clients. My goal is to continue to raise awareness in our community of the availability of expungement for human trafficking victims and why it is so important to provide this relief.

What has been your proudest career moment and your biggest hurdle? My proudest career moment was successfully obtaining the expungement of my client's criminal record under the human trafficking expungement statute after a contested evidentiary hearing and oral argument.  This was a case and issue of first impression in Florida that will serve as precedent for survivors of human trafficking nationwide. More importantly, the successful outcome allowed my client to move forward with her life, free from the bonds of her trafficker and get hired for the job she was previously unable to obtain.

Where do you fit on a 1-10 work-life balance scale with 10 being nirvana? Please explain. I think that the work-life balance scale is constantly moving; some weeks the scale tips in favor of work and others it tips in favor of family and life. With three children under 5 at home, juggling my litigation practice and travel schedule can be a challenge. I am lucky to work at a firm that values family and allows me the flexibility to create a schedule that works for me.  I also have phenomenal support from my husband, who is also a lawyer and understands the demands of our profession.

What is the top quality that you've used to succeed in the profession? Attention to detail. Who is your favorite mentor and why? I am not sure I can name one favorite mentor. Throughout my life and career I have gained invaluable wisdom and knowledge from many different people, including my family, coaches, and teammates. I am also extremely lucky to learn every day from my colleagues at Weil who challenge me and inspire me to be a better lawyer.

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you? Remove the adjectives from your brief and keep your sentences short.

What trends are you observing in the profession that you're excited about? An increased focus on work-life balance and mental health.

What is the greatest challenge you see for the legal profession? Maintaining civility and professionalism in the age of social media and digital communications.

If I weren't a lawyer, I would be … Working in sports marketing. I studied three years to work in the sports industry before realizing that law school was for me.

 

Daniel Balmori

DANIEL BALMORI

Title: Senior Associate

Experience: Hogan Lovells US, 2016-present, 2014-2015; Law Clerk to U.S. District Senior Judge Paul C. Huck, 2015-2016

Education: Harvard, 2014 and 2011

What drew you to a career in law? I wanted to hone a craft that challenged me each day, taught me something new all the time, allowed me to advocate for others when I believed in them, and, as a plaque in my law school frequently reminded me: I wanted to have a platform “to aid in the shaping and application of those wise restraints that make men free.”  Uniquely, the attorney is this and much, much more.

Have you set a specific goal that you want to achieve in the next year? I plan to continue to work with young lawyers, making a conscious effort to pay it forward and pass along the advice and wisdom that my mentors have given me.

What has been your proudest career moment and your biggest hurdle? The proudest moment in my career was the November 2018 groundbreaking ceremony for The Underline, the transformational linear park and urban trail planned below the Metrorail in Miami.  It was the culmination of hundreds of hours of pro bono legal advocacy that I was proud to be a part of, and of thousands of hours of volunteer time from local citizens in pure grassroots fashion. I am fortunate that the great teams with which I work and my wonderful family and friends have helped me to avoid many notable hurdles.

Where do you fit on a 1-10 work-life balance scale with 10 being nirvana? Please explain. “You will never find time for anything. If you want time, you must make it.”

 What is the top quality that you've used to succeed in the profession? I believe I have benefited most by making a conscious effort to, with an open and curious mind, question everything around me.  I also hold the strong belief that with dedication one can learn anything. Together, these qualities have allowed me to face unfamiliar challenges with the confidence that they can be overcome.

 Who is your favorite mentor and why? There will not be another Parker Thomson.  Parker taught me that if something does not seem just, we each have the tools to fix it; and lawyers — as much as anyone — have the responsibility to do so.

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you? Keep your study group close because, in life, the exams just get harder.

What trends are you observing in the profession that you're excited about? Attorneys and law firms recognize now more than ever the significance of pro bono advocacy. The simple idea that we can do good and do well arms attorneys with the mindset necessary to improve the lives of our neighbors and transform our communities for the better.

What is the greatest challenge you see for the legal profession? I am concerned about access to justice. Quality legal services should not be reserved for the few that can afford them. As the “justice gap” grows, we must, as a profession, find a better way to afford to provide the legal help needed by those who are systematically, or even inadvertently, excluded from accessing the legal system.

If I weren't a lawyer, I'd be … An urban planner (or a professional basketball player — some childhood dreams still linger.)

Evan Berger

EVAN BERGER

Title: Shareholder

Experience: Becker, 2012-present; Cole, Scott & Kissane, 2009-2012

Education: American University, 2009; Emory University, 2005

What drew you to a career in law? I was drawn to a legal career because it provides financial stability along with flexibility.

Have you set a specific goal that you want to achieve in the next year? To continue to grow my local and national client base.

What has been your proudest career moment and your biggest hurdle? My proudest collective moments occur when I am able to assist a client with meeting their litigation goals either through a judicial resolution or settlement.  My biggest hurdle was graduating from law school in 2009 when most law firms were downsizing as opposed to hiring attorneys who just graduated from law school.

Where do you fit on a 1-10 work-life balance scale with 10 being nirvana? Please explain. 7.  My colleagues and clients are very understanding that attorneys have a life outside of the office and that there are rarely instances where I need to be reachable on a 24/7 basis.  That said, it is a demanding job and there are often deadlines, which have to be met.

What is the top quality that you've used to succeed in the profession? Common sense.

Who is your favorite mentor and why? Allen Levine has been my mentor at the firm for a number of years.  He is not only my direct supervisor but a constant guide for the most effective way to navigate a case, develop client relationships, and create a work/life balance. 

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you? Lawyers should be able to disagree without being disagreeable.

What trends are you observing in the profession that you're excited about? While many attorneys dislike the fact that technology forces them to always be available, I view it as an exciting aspect of the profession as it allows attorneys to work remotely and on their own schedule.

What is the greatest challenge you see for the legal profession? Having talented young individuals choose a career in law will be a challenge for the profession. Given the cost of law school, as well as the opportunity cost of 3 additional years of school, many who would have considered a legal career are foregoing the time and financial investment for professions in banking, technology, or entrepreneurship among others.

If I weren't a lawyer, I'd be … A business owner.

 

Michael Dutko Jr.

MICHAEL E. DUTKO JR.

Title: Partner

Experience: Conrad & Scherer, 2013-present; Delray Beach, 2014-2016; Palm Beach State Attorney's Office, 2010-2013; Messer, Caparello & Self, 2007-2010

Education: Florida State University, 2009; Georgetown University, 2006

What drew you to a career in law? My dad is an attorney, and I grew up around his office and the courthouse.

Have you set a specific goal that you want to achieve in the next year? I plan to take the North Carolina bar exam in February 2020.

What has been your proudest career moment and your biggest hurdle? My proudest career moment was being named to the Palm Beach County Public Corruption Unit Task Force, where I supervised a team of detectives and oversaw investigations into criminal allegations involving breaches of public trust.

My biggest hurdle is probably the (incorrect) impression that younger attorneys are necessarily less effective. The only real way to combat that is to make sure you're always prepared.

Where do you fit on a 1-10 work-life balance scale with 10 being nirvana? Please explain.  8. I try to always remember to keep my priorities straight as it relates to professional and personal life.  While I love my career, I strongly believe that we should work to live, not live to work.

What is the top quality that you've used to succeed in the profession?  Always be prepared — for meetings, for telephone calls, for emails, for court hearings, for trials. For everything.

Who is your favorite mentor and why? My father. He's an incredible lawyer, and he works very hard, but he was (and still is) always there for me. He instilled in me the need to keep my priorities straight in life.

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you? Trust your instincts, and always work hard.

What trends are you observing in the profession that you're excited about? The continued expansion of technology in all aspects of legal work — whether that means quicker access to research tools, e-discovery and the ability to review much more information (and many more types of information) than was ever possible before, and everything in between.

What is the greatest challenge you see for the legal profession? Related to my last answer, probably also the continued expansion of technology in all aspects of legal work. As counselors, we really have an obligation to stay on top of technological trends in order to appropriately represent our clients' interests. New technology is not always intuitive, and it takes commitment to stay informed.

If I weren't a lawyer, I'd be … Starting point guard for the Miami Heat. Well, no, probably not — but some dreams don't go easy, do they?

 

Devin Freedman

DEVIN “VEL” FREEDMAN

Title: Counsel

Experience: Boies Schiller Flexner, 2012-2019

Education: Columbia Law School, 2012; Yeshiva Gedolah Rabbinical College, 2009

What drew you to a career in law? I've always enjoyed problem solving, and the law was a good way to solve big problems in creative ways.

Have you set a specific goal that you want to achieve in the next year? I've been reading the complete works of Titus Flavius Josephus, the first century Romano-Jewish historian. It's incredibly interesting but a bit dense. I'd love to finish reading it this year.

What has been your proudest career moment and your biggest hurdle? Going to trial with David Boies and Stephen Zack in David Cassirer v. The Thyssen-Bornemisza Collection Foundation. We represented the decedents of a holocaust survivor in their quest to recover a Camille Pissarro masterpiece stolen by the Nazis in World War II. The hurdle? Finding enough time in the day to get everything done!

Where do you fit on a 1-10 work-life balance scale with 10 being nirvana? Please explain. 9. I work hard, and long hours, but I make sure my family knows and sees they are my No. 1 priority. Also, it helps that I observe the Sabbath as it reserves time for just the family. Truthfully, my wife is particularly good at helping me prepare for oral argument, so we get to spend time together preparing for some of my big cases.

What is the top quality that you've used to succeed in the profession? Creative problem solving.

Who is your favorite mentor and why? My father. He' s an incredible physician, but an even better dad. He's an inspiration that I try to live up to.

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you? Don't be afraid to express your ideas.

What trends are you observing in the profession that you're excited about? The integration of technology into the practice of law. I'm particularly excited about how businesses and courts will deal with smart contracts based in blockchain technology. The possibilities are incredible.

What is the greatest challenge you see for the legal profession? Civility. I think lawyers are under tremendous pressure and, unfortunately, it can bleed into the way they deal with others.

If I weren't a lawyer, I'd be … Running an e-commerce business.

 

Lindsay B. Haber

LINDSAY HABER

Title: Partner

Experience: Kluger Kaplan, 2011-present

Education: Nova Southeastern University, 2010; University of Florida, 2006

What drew you to a career in law? The ability to use my undergraduate journalism degree with a career that would continuously keep me on my toes.

Have you set a specific goal that you want to achieve in the next year? I recently achieved my No. 1 work goal for the past several years of becoming partner at Kluger Kaplan in January.

What has been your proudest career moment and your biggest hurdle? Proudest career moment: Helping my client, an Italian citizen, get his children back to Italy.  His wife, also an Italian citizen, had brought their Italian children to Miami for a summer vacation and refused to return the children to their home in Italy for the upcoming school year. Biggest hurdle: When I first started, building my confidence when arguing against senior attorneys in the courtroom.

Where do you fit on a 1-10 work-life balance scale with 10 being nirvana? Please explain. 7, There is an ebb and flow when it comes to work-life balance, especially when we are all continuing to push for professional success.  I have started using my work calendar to plan not just work, but my personal life as well. So that I can try and make time for myself and my family and know how to plan each day successfully around both.

What is the top quality that you've used to succeed in the profession? Self-awareness. I am a litigator, part of a great law firm, and practice specifically in family law. To handle the hectic days that come with all of that, it takes more than just understanding the law. It takes, patience, understanding, and most of all, self-awareness. Knowing your strengths as well as your shortcomings helps me within my law firm as well as with my clients.

Who is your favorite mentor and why? Alan Kluger. He has allowed me to grow as a lawyer over the nearly 10 years at his firm: first as a summer associate in law school, then as a lawyer, and now as a partner at the firm. Alan has given me opportunities that must young lawyers could only dream of. I am thankful for the challenges he has given me and pushing me to be a better lawyer.

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you? You know the law, now go with your gut!

What trends are you observing in the profession that you're excited about? The way technology and remote connection has changed one's ability to work away from the office desk. I think this has and will continue to be a big game changer for attorneys.

What is the greatest challenge you see for the legal profession? Technology. It has allowed emails, text messages, phone calls and even FaceTime to replace in-person meetings. Technology can be a double-edged sword!

If I weren't a lawyer, I'd be … I don't really know! I like being a family law attorney.

 

Niyala Harrison

NIYALA A. HARRISON

Title: Associate

Experience: Greenberg Traurig, 2019-present; Squire Patton Boggs, 2013-2019; O'Quinn Stumphauzer, 2012–2013

Education: University of Miami, 2012; Florida State University, 2005

What drew you to a career in law? I had an excellent civics teacher who passed on his passion for government, politics and law. True memory fails me now, but I was either selected or volunteered to serve as judge in our mock trial. The robe, the ritual and the theater of it all was gripping. 

Have you set a specific goal that you want to achieve in the next year? No specific goals, but I do intend to continue building on several of my accomplishments.

What has been your proudest career moment and your biggest hurdle? Being elected president (2017-2018) of the Caribbean Bar Association, a more than 20-year-old organization with more than 200 members. Leading a very active bar association while continuing to practice at the highest level was challenging but made possible by the support of the executive board, my colleagues at work and fellow bar association leaders.

Where do you fit on a 1-10 work-life balance scale with 10 being nirvana? Please explain. I am on the right side of work-life balance somewhere between 6-9. I don't expect to achieve work-life balance every day. The nature of the practice of law is that there may be some days that are all work and yet those days can be very rewarding in a peculiar way. I exercise consistently and take purposeful vacations when I can.

What is the top quality that you've used to succeed in the profession? Remaining unflappable when everything is crashing down around me and others are feeding into the frenzy. My composure continues to serve me extremely well when trying to arrive at a pragmatic solution. 

Who is your favorite mentor and why? I have had the good fortune of having several people in my personal and professional life whom I consider mentors and whom I greatly admire and respect. If anything, I have been able to draw upon the individual and collective wisdom of my mentors to my great advantage at specific times and in varied spaces. But, there is no question that my mother's advice and her expectations of me have largely shaped who I am today.

 What's the best advice anyone has ever given you? There is no such thing as being overprepared or overdressed.

What trends are you observing in the profession that you're excited about? Truly what we need in the world is more human contact, interaction and engagement. However, legal digitalization and continued investment in legal technology means never before seen efficiencies for clients and practitioners alike.  

What is the greatest challenge you see for the legal profession? The legal profession has made strides, but it has still not achieved post-racial post-gender bias status.

If I weren't a lawyer, I'd be … A professor. In my first two years of practice I also worked as an adjunct professor. Imparting knowledge to eager minds is a most fulfilling mandate.

 

Nicholas Johnson

NICHOLAS JOHNSON

Title: Attorney

Experience: Cohen Milstein Sellers & Toll, 2014-present; Bernstein Chackman Liss & Rose, 2012-2014; Roberts Reynolds Bedard & Tuzzio, 2011-2012; Palm Beach Public Defender's Office, 2007-2011

Education: St. Thomas University, 2007; Boston University, 2001

What drew you to a career in law? A desire to help people when the doors to justice seem closed.

Have you set a specific goal that you want to achieve in the next year? To become a member of ABOTA by having 10 civil trials.

What has been your proudest career moment and your biggest hurdle? My proudest career moment was settling a case involving a client who was brain injured due to medical negligence after three years of litigation. He and his wife were extremely grateful.

My biggest hurdle has been serving as my harshest critic.

Where do you fit on a 1-10 work-life balance scale with 10 being nirvana? Please explain. I'm at a 7 right now.  I'm not sure a 10 is achievable when you are always trying to go the extra mile for your clients.

What is the top quality that you've used to succeed in the profession? Discipline.

Who is your favorite mentor and why? Stephan LeClainche. He is the epitome of professionalism, diligence and competence.

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you? “Learn your craft.”

What trends are you observing in the profession that you're excited about? The recognition that work-life balance is important to longevity.

What is the greatest challenge you see for the legal profession? Civility. Too many lawyers nowadays think the only way to succeed is to be combative and aggressive.

If I weren't a lawyer, I'd be … A retired professional soccer player.

 

Alexandra Lehson

ALEXANDRA LEHSON

Title: Partner

Experience: Bilzin Sumberg Baena Price & Axelrod, 2010-present; Weil Gotshal & Manges, 2007-2010

Education: University of Florida, 2007; University of Central Florida, 2004

What drew you to a career in law? Before I obtained my driver's license, I got a ride to the local library and spent hours poring through the statute books to determine my legal rights in my parents' separation. I found this experience empowering and it inspired me to make a career out of being an advocate for others.  

Have you set a specific goal that you want to achieve in the next year? Professionally, my firm, Bilzin Sumberg, puts a heavy focus on efficiency and technology. I plan to expand upon both to better support our clients and collaborate with team members by compiling an easily searchable database of useful articles, sample provisions, templates and issues lists, among other items. 

Also, our firm is very engaged in the communities in which we serve. Personally, I plan to support this effort of increasing involvement in the National Young Leadership Cabinet Day of Service for the Jewish Federation of North America. It is an annual event that I coordinate for approximately 50 different communities across the U.S. and Canada. Hundreds of participants come together on the same day to engage in a hands-on volunteer activity.   

What has been your proudest career moment and your biggest hurdle? My proudest career moment was making partner at Bilzin Sumberg as part of our thriving real estate and land use practice. Collectively, we have more than 40 partners, of which nearly half are women. Displayed in my office is a certificate that my grandmother, the smartest and hardest working person I have ever met, received for her services as an assistant, which was the highest title that she was able to achieve in her career. It serves as a great reminder that I am extremely fortunate to have been born in a time and place where women have the opportunity to do and be anything we want to be.

Regarding the biggest hurdle, I am not originally from Miami, so I had to work hard to increase my network and role in the South Florida community. In the process, I found a community and a home that I love. 

Where do you fit on a 1-10 work-life balance scale with 10 being nirvana? Please explain. 8. I work very hard, but I am fortunate enough to have trusted colleagues who cover for me so that I can enjoy time off as well.  

What is the top quality that you've used to succeed in the profession? My ability to construct creative solutions. 

Who is your favorite mentor and why? Suzanne Amaducci-Adams, the real estate practice group leader at Bilzin Sumberg. She has been an amazing teacher, role model, mentor and friend to me.  

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you? Suzanne Amaducci-Adams always says, “There is at least one solution for every problem. All you have to do is find it.”

What trends are you observing in the profession that you're excited about? An increased focus on training and mentoring associates.  

What is the greatest challenge you see for the legal profession? Increased pressure to move from the billable hour to alternative fee structures.  

If I weren't a lawyer, I'd be … A therapist. I truly enjoy helping people, and both professions allow you to help people with their problems. I can effectively read people and identify underlying motivations, which is crucial in providing sound counsel.

 

Michael Lessne

MICHAEL LESSNE

Title: Partner

Experience: Nelson Mullins Broad and Cassel, 2017-2019; GrayRobinson, 2009-2017

Education: University of Miami, 2009; University of Florida, 2006

What drew you to a career in law? I've known from early on in my life that I wanted to be in business. My parents each had businesses of their own, and on few and fortunate occasions, I was able to travel with my parents on business trips. In my undergraduate and graduate studies, I was drawn to accounting — the language of business. I found harmony in the double entry system of recording transactions — the balance of accounting. I completed my master's in accounting, but I desired to continue my studies and went to law school to study the law of business. In law school, I passed the CPA exam and I took as many business classes as I could to be able to address the legal challenges facing businesses. I was immediately drawn to bankruptcy law, where the law provides avenues for businesses facing difficulties to reorganize and provides tools to investigate fraud and recover for those who have been harmed. This has led me to a career as a business bankruptcy lawyer, representing debtors, creditors (including financial institutions) and creditor committees, and trustees and other fiduciaries, and as a commercial litigator handling complex disputes.

Have you set a specific goal that you want to achieve in the next year? I intend to continue to focus on health care insolvency over the next year and broaden my reach in the health care area, particularly through the opportunity created by my firm's recent combination. In August 2018, Broad and Cassel combined with Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, and we have more than 750 attorneys in 25 offices across the United States, with robust bankruptcy, health care and litigation practices.

What has been your proudest career moment and your biggest hurdle? I have been fortunate in my career to have been able to work with many seasoned and accomplished lawyers and bankruptcy professionals, and I particularly enjoy working with them in pursuit of solving complex legal and business problems and litigating business disputes. I have a number of highlights in my career, which would include the work I've done for trustees on fraud-related cases and Ponzi schemes, particularly in pursuing and recovering for the benefit of creditors. I think the biggest hurdle has been the limitations of time — I often wish there were more hours in a day.

Where do you fit on a 1-10 work-life balance scale with 10 being nirvana? Please explain. This is a difficult question to answer for several reasons. First, my profession accentuates my life since I very much enjoy what I do as an attorney. Second, my work-personal life balance varies based on the cases I'm handling. Third, I am active in my community, sitting on multiple boards and giving back as much as I can. I make sure to take time off to spend as much time as I can with my wife and family and my friends, and that includes taking personal time for golf and vacation.

What is the top quality that you've used to succeed in the profession? I endeavor to be extremely responsive. I listen. I am humble and hungry and extremely hard-working. I do my best to be thoughtful. I consider issues from all angles, seeking to get to the heart of a matter from a practical perspective. I believe that it's important to be agile in this profession, particularly in bankruptcy, where there are often many creditors and not enough proceeds to go around.

Who is your favorite mentor and why? I've had a number of mentors in my career, including Patricia Redmond, my bankruptcy professor in law school, and U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Robert Mark, who taught a class on business reorganizations and who I interned for in law school, as well as bankruptcy partners who I worked with throughout my career, including Patrick Scott, Ivan Reich and Frank Terzo, and my brother, business and probate litigator Steven Lessne. If I had to pick a favorite, it would be Frank, who had a successful business career in health care before becoming a bankruptcy lawyer. Frank is extremely insightful and has taught me to look for practical solutions to difficult problems. I decided to leave my prior firm in 2017 and come to my current firm with Frank due to the increasing opportunities presented in the health care insolvency space.

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you? Be practical, there is often a simple answer to a difficult problem. And listen actively. I've heard it said that “wisdom is the reward you get for a lifetime of listening when you'd have preferred to speak.” And I really like Edison's quote, “Vision without execution is hallucination.”

What trends are you observing in the profession that you're excited about? Over the past three years, there has been a tremendous uptick in health care insolvency work. I believe that will continue, particularly with hospital and provider bankruptcy filings.

What is the greatest challenge you see for the legal profession? I see a number of challenges to the profession, including civility among lawyers, work-life balance concerns and the impact of technology on the profession.

If I weren't a lawyer, I'd be … In business or a practicing forensic accountant. And if I could make money playing golf, I'd do that.

Arya Li

ARYA LI

Title: Partner

Experience: Ver Ploeg & Marino, 2014-present; Cole, Scott & Kissane, 2012-2014; Equels Law Firm, 2009-2012

Education: University of Miami, 2008 and 2005

What drew you to a career in law? I took a psychology and law course at UM. My professor was a lawyer and her drive (and ability) to make a difference really swayed me to be a lawyer.

What has been your proudest career moment and your biggest hurdle? Proudest career moment and biggest hurdle: representing a minor child as an attorney ad litem. It was a hurdle because as a mom I was advocating for termination of parental rights. It was very difficult, but in the best interest of the child.

Where do you fit on a 1-10 work-life balance scale with 10 being nirvana? Please explain. 7. Still trying to achieve nirvana.

What is the top quality that you've used to succeed in the profession? Respect.

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you? Be a better lawyer today than you were yesterday.

What trends are you observing in the profession that you're excited about? Working remotely.

What is the greatest challenge you see for the legal profession? Retaining female lawyers.

If I weren't a lawyer, I'd be … A teacher.

 

Justin Luger

JUSTIN LUGER

Title: Partner

Experience: Weiss Serota Helfman Cole & Bierman, 2013-present; Brown & Heller, 2012-2013; Cole, Scott & Kissane, 2010-2012

Education: University of Miami, 2010; Emory University, 2006

What drew you to a career in law? Throughout my academic career, I had always been drawn to any task involving reading, writing, analyzing and issue-spotting. Pursuing a career in the law was a natural fit!

Have you set a specific goal that you want to achieve in the next year? In the coming year, professionally, I would like to continue building a book of business. Personally, I would like to remain at the forefront of shaping the future of the Magic City through my involvement in such organizations as the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce.

What has been your proudest career moment and your biggest hurdle? My proudest moment was making partner at my firm and knowing I have the backing of a wonderful organization that believes in me. My biggest hurdle was unexpectedly finding myself out of a job when my last firm closed suddenly and unexpectedly. Although it was a situation in which I never thought I would find myself, it was a “blessing in disguise” as it allowed me to end up at Weiss Serota, which, with the backing of the firm, has propelled me forward in my personal and professional development.

Where do you fit on a 1-10 work-life balance scale with 10 being nirvana? Please explain. 8. Litigators know we are always at the beck and call of clients, and always dealing with opposing counsels. Notwithstanding, I am at a place where I am able to accomplish anything I want in my personal life while tending to professional duties and requirements.

What is the top quality that you've used to succeed in the profession? I proceed in a careful, methodical and well thought out way as best that I can. I never get down in the mud with others who try to drag me down, and I always take the high road in terms of professionalism. Even if you lose the case, you win in terms of personal pride and respect in the end.

Who is your favorite mentor and why? Joe Serota, a founding member of my firm, has taught me many things both in conversation as well as in action. He has taught me what it takes to be a stand out attorney: preparation and professionalism, with an extra dose of preparation. He has also taught me the importance of giving back through civic and community involvement.

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you? My father has always instilled in me that as long as I put forth top effort in whatever I do, I will stand out from the crowd. Even if there are tough times, you put your head down, continue doing superior work, and you will not only make it out on the other side, but excel.

What trends are you observing in the profession that you're excited about? Technology to make our lives easier in our daily work.

What is the greatest challenge you see for the legal profession? The slow rate at which the legal profession adjusts to/adopts technological advances.

If I weren't a lawyer, I'd be … a DJ.

Hayden Patrick O'Byrne

HAYDEN PATRICK O'BYRNE

Title:  Associate

Experience: K&L Gates, 2011-present; Catlin Saxon Fink & Kolski, 2008-2011

Education: University of Miami, 2008 and 2003

What drew you to a career in law? I have always been a problem solver; everyone told me growing up that I should be a lawyer. Once I started practicing, I realized that this was my true calling. As a lawyer I have the ability to help people build and develop their business by counseling them on the applicable rules. Also, when disputes arise the persons who know the rules better are usually the ones that win.

Have you set a specific goal that you want to achieve in the next year? Yes.

What has been your proudest career moment and your biggest hurdle? My proudest career moment was being asked by the governor's office to join the Eleventh Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission and help select the members of our trial bench.

Where do you fit on a 1-10 work-life balance scale with 10 being nirvana? Please explain. I love being a lawyer. I look forward to opinions coming out on Wednesday mornings and catching up on the legal news over the weekends. I'd probably do the same thing even if I won the lottery and was able to retire today. So I guess that makes it a 10.

What is the top quality that you've used to succeed in the profession? Persistence.

Who is your favorite mentor and why? Carol Lumpkin. She taught me how to write and she taught me how to think.

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you? Find mentors and work with good people that you can rely upon. Everything is easier if you surround yourself with good people.

What trends are you observing in the profession that you're excited about? Legal blogs are nothing new, but they are constantly getting better and better, especially ones that are focused on a very narrow field. Blogs can often be the most informative resources for research, and updates. I am constantly amazed at how good blogs have become.

What is the greatest challenge you see for the legal profession? Litigation has become so expensive that cases are no longer resolved on the merits. The whole dynamic has changed. Civil “trial lawyers” are no longer being developed. Instead, we have a system where costly pretrial shenanigans that exhaust the other side are rewarded.  

If I weren't a lawyer, I'd be … Retired.

Thomas Oppenheimer

THOMAS F. OPPENHEIMER

Title: Partner

Experience: Fox Rothschild, 2013-present; Fowler Rodriguez, 2006-2013

Education: American University, 2005; Emory University, 2002

What drew you to a career in law? Sounds cliché, but the ability to help individuals and small businesses, and the freedom to pursue different jobs in many different fields.

Have you set a specific goal that you want to achieve in the next year? Promotion to equity partner.

What has been your proudest career moment and your biggest hurdle? My proudest moment was being promoted to partner at an AmLaw 100 law firm. My biggest hurdle was switching practice areas from litigation to corporate in my fifth year of private practice.

Where do you fit on a 1-10 work-life balance scale with 10 being nirvana? Please explain. When I started my career, it was probably a 1, but it has improved each year. Now, it is currently a 7. With experience, I have learned to be more efficient and how to more effectively manage my time. A 10 is not realistic in a career in law, but a work-life balance is possible with the right approach.

What is the top quality that you've used to succeed in the profession? Persistence.

Who is your favorite mentor and why? My father. Although he is not a practicing lawyer, he is very successful in his career. His advice has been invaluable and always proven to be right even if I didn't always agree with everything he said.

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you? Law is a marathon, not a sprint.

What trends are you observing in the profession that you're excited about? More emphasis on work-life balance in the legal profession and growing acceptance of alternative billing models.

What is the greatest challenge you see for the legal profession? Technology. Artificial intelligence is rapidly evolving and will have a major impact on the legal professional. Law firms that don't adapt will not survive.

If I weren't a lawyer, I'd be … An entrepreneur.

Kimberly Prior

KIMBERLY ANNE PRIOR

Title: Partner

Experience: Shutts & Bowen, 2018-present, 2006-2015; Baker McKenzie 2015-2018

Education: University of Miami, 2005; Stetson University, 2004; Florida State University, 2001

What drew you to a career in law? My father is an attorney, and I always knew I would also be an attorney.

Have you set a specific goal that you want to achieve in the next year? No, but my long-term goal is to be a leading expert on financial services regulation.

What has been your proudest career moment and your biggest hurdle? Returning to Shutts to work with a team I admire and respect; choosing between work and family.

Where do you fit on a 1-10 work-life balance scale with 10 being nirvana? Please explain.  6. I work too much during the week but try to completely disconnect when I can on the weekend to spend time with my husband and child.

What is the top quality that you've used to succeed in the profession? Attention to detail.

Who is your favorite mentor and why? Bryan Wells. He is a wonderful teacher and listener, he leads by example and is incredible with his clients.

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you? To remember that most mistakes can be fixed and to not be afraid to be make them.

What trends are you observing in the profession that you're excited about? New areas of the law that are developing.

What is the greatest challenge you see for the legal profession? Diversity and work-life balance.

If I weren't a lawyer, I'd be … A fashion stylist or interior designer.

 

Brent Reitman

BRENT M. REITMAN

Title: Founding Partner

Experience: Liberman Cabrera Thompson & Reitman, 2019-present; Krupnick Campbell Malone Buser Slama Hancock & Liberman, 2013-2019; Broward State Attorney's Office, 2010-2013

Education: Nova Southeastern University, 2010; University of Miami, 2007

What drew you to a career in law? I have always wanted to be lawyer. Even since I realized (early in life) that I did not have the makings of a professional athlete, I wanted to be involved in the law. I became amazed early on, learning about historic U.S. Supreme Court cases, that the law could effectuate social change and be utilized to “right” the “wrongs” in the world.

Have you set a specific goal that you want to achieve in the next year? I plan to sit for another board certification examination and become dual-board certified in different areas of trial law.

What has been your proudest career moment and your biggest hurdle? The proudest moment in my career was when I was able to entirely alleviate the financial burdens of one of my favorite clients who suffered a leg amputation after being bitten by a water moccasin in her community. Her case had been rejected by a number of attorneys, but I was moved by her story and the hardship that her injury had caused her, her husband and their three minor children.

Her case also presented the largest hurdle. In Florida, people are not responsible for damages caused by wild animals. Hence why most believed that she had no case. However, through extremely lengthy discovery period, we were able to show that the particular neighborhood where she was injured has a long history of problems with venomous snakes. Residents had been consistently complaining about the presence of water moccasins in their neighborhood for the five years prior to the incident. Another person was even bitten by a water moccasin in the community. Ultimately, we discovered a survey by the University of Florida, which showed that the concentration of water moccasins in this community was 8.6 times higher than in the Everglades. Through the use of wonderful experts in the field of zoology such as Zoo Miami's Ron Magill, we were able to overcome the defenses of five different law firms and settle the case for $5 million.

Where do you fit on a 1-10 work-life balance scale with 10 being nirvana? Please explain. Although I usually have an equivalent ratio, at the moment I am trending more toward a work-heavy schedule after having recently founded the Law Offices of Liberman Cabrera Thompson & Reitman, a new practice that focuses mainly on representing victims of medical malpractice. Or, as my great friend Jeff Wank would succinctly say, 7.

What is the top quality that you've used to succeed in the profession? Hard work. There is absolutely no substitute for it in the practice of law. Even the simplest of scenarios can present themselves with unexpected deviations and challenges. The surest way to be prepared to deal with a change in course is an abundance of preparation. I have found that a consistent source of my success has derived from a willingness to put in the extra work.

Who is your favorite mentor and why? I had the great privilege of working alongside the legendary Walter G. “Skip” Campbell Jr. prior to his untimely passing. Skip was an iconic lawyer and humanitarian who lived by a simple mantra: “Always do the right thing.” Through him, I learned the importance of taking up the cause of the underdog and facing grim odds because it was the right thing to do. As Skip would often remind others, sometimes we must undertake difficult causes because, “if we don't help them, who will?”

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you? Always do the right thing.

What trends are you observing in the profession that you're excited about? I am excited and very appreciative of the use of technology to make the practice of law easier. The use of cloud-based technologies and smarter phones/iPads allow lawyers to be able to deal with legal matters in real time. The access to information via listservs and deposition exchange programs truly makes the world of litigation a smaller place. The management of cases where there are hundreds of thousands of pages produced at a time can be managed and effectively searched through the use of ESI management companies. I am also excited to see how programs that use predictive analytics will affect the practice of law.

What is the greatest challenge you see for the legal profession? Preserving the integrity of our profession in light of the negative perception resulting from increases in lawyer advertising on traditionally commercial mediums, public arrests and ensuing debacles involving members of our profession.

If I weren't a lawyer, I'd be … A movie critic.

 

Geri Satin

GERI SATIN

Title: Senior Trial Consultant

Experience: Focus Litigation Consulting LLC, 2013-present; Stearns Weaver Miller Weissler Alhadeff & Sitterson, 2008-2013

Education: Florida International University, 2017; University of Miami, 2008; University of Florida, 2005

What drew you to a career in law? I come from a family of lawyers. Since I was a kid, my dad would take me to his office and to court with him. Growing up, a lot of our dinner conversations would concern the law and legal topics. So I would say it's in my blood.

Have you set a specific goal that you want to achieve in the next year? I've been very fortunate to help build our company from the ground up. Next year, I'd like to continue growing the business by bringing on additional consultants to complement the team.

What has been your proudest career moment and your biggest hurdle? There have been a lot of proud moments along the way in terms of case victories and happy trial teams, but I would have to say my proudest career moment to date has been landing a federal contract with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Over the past five years, I've had the opportunity to work with nearly all of the SEC's regional offices across the country, conducting jury research and consulting on securities cases set for jury trial.

The biggest hurdle has been transitioning from a litigator to a trial consultant. A lot of people told me I wouldn't be able to do it. That going back to school to get a Ph.D. while pregnant and later with an infant at home was crazy. (They were right, it was!) I definitely doubted myself at times. But taking the leap and overcoming the hurdle has made me a better trial consultant. I believe I am where I am in my career because of these hurdles rather than despite them.

Where do you fit on a 1-10 work-life balance scale with 10 being nirvana? Please explain. 5. My job takes me all over the country (and a lot of our mock trials are conducted on weekends). As a mother, my biggest concern is always leaving my family for these work trips. My husband is a tax attorney with an equally busy schedule, so there is a lot of juggling in terms of the daily schedule/grind. When I'm not traveling I try to do what I can to be particularly present. Luckily, for the times when I'm not here, we have a lot of family that helps out. To say it “takes a village” would be an understatement.

What is the top quality that you've used to succeed in the profession? Perseverance (and perhaps a little stubbornness).

Who is your favorite mentor and why? David Pollack at Stearns Weaver. When I worked with him at Stearns Weaver, he always treated me as a colleague rather than as an employee (even when I was very junior). He never took himself too seriously. And he took the time to really teach rather than just use his associates to churn out work. Most importantly, he looked out for my career development AND for my overall well-being. When I told him I was going to pursue a more nontraditional legal career path, he was (and has continued to be) extremely supportive.

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you? Don't let them see you sweat.

What trends are you observing in the profession that you're excited about? There has been increasing awareness and emphasis within the profession on implicit bias. This is an area of research that I focus on, particularly in terms of legal decision making and voir dire. The more implicit bias in the legal system is discussed and the more potential interventions are researched/tested, the more likely we are to increase the fairness and impartiality of a jury trial.

What is the greatest challenge you see for the legal profession? Balancing job satisfaction with billable hours. And for litigators, not exposing young attorneys to the courtroom until well into their career. 

If I weren't a lawyer, I'd be … A trial consultant :)

 

Adam Seligman

ADAM R. SELIGMAN

Title: Partner

Experience: Ward Damon, 2012-present; Cohen Norris, 2005-2012

Education: Stetson University, 2005; University of Florida, 2001

What drew you to a career in law? I always wanted to help people. I also had a big interest in real estate and business. So now I combine the two interests.

Have you set a specific goal that you want to achieve in the next year? Increased generation but also more time with my kids.

What has been your proudest career moment and your biggest hurdle? Proudest moment was becoming the youngest equity partner in firm history. Biggest hurdle was making the decision to leave my first job where I was for seven years and very comfortable.

Where do you fit on a 1-10 work-life balance scale with 10 being nirvana? Please explain. 8. I have a great team at work and we enjoy working together, but I could of course probably spend more time with the family if I could.

What is the top quality that you've used to succeed in the profession? Caring about the clients, but also answering the phone. A missed call is potentially a missed deal or new client.

Who is your favorite mentor and why? I am not sure I have a single mentor, but I have always looked up and respected my grandmother June for being smart, tough and caring at the same time.

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you? Trust your gut.

What trends are you observing in the profession that you're excited about? Real estate development is booming and many clients are starting to form new companies and create new inventions. It is a great time to work in this profession. Every day is a different adventure and learning experience.

What is the greatest challenge you see for the legal profession? Online legal websites making people think a fill-in-the blank form is adequate for their needs.

If I weren't a lawyer, I'd be … A painter.

 

Schuyler Smith

SCHUYLER ANALISE SMITH

Title: Partner

Experience: Hamilton Miller & Birthisel, 2013-present; Lydecker Diaz 2011-2013; Florida Department of Children and Families, 2009-2011

Education: St. Thomas University, 2009; The University of the West Indies, 2006

What drew you to a career in law? There has never been another career that interested me. I liked the idea of being an advocate since I was a child and I enjoy being an advocate now as a practitioner.

Have you set a specific goal that you want to achieve in the next year? Expanding my current book of business by generating new clients and trying more cases.

What has been your proudest career moment and your biggest hurdle? Becoming the youngest partner at my firm at 32.

Where do you fit on a 1-10 work-life balance scale with 10 being nirvana? Please explain. 8. I tend to burn both ends of the candle. So, I work extremely long hours on most days but I also find the time to take frequent vacations, staycations, and time in general to do the things that are important to me.

What is the top quality that you've used to succeed in the profession? Being aggressive, tenacious, authentic, regardless of who likes it, and a top performer in any job that I have had.

Who is your favorite mentor and why? In recent times, Jerry Hamilton. He has given me a platform, which has enabled me to grow and excel professionally.

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you? One of the keys to success is to surround yourself with people that are smarter and more successful than you.

What trends are you observing in the profession that you're excited about? Embracing health and wellness and destigmatizing mental health issues.

What is the greatest challenge you see for the legal profession? Equity for women in opportunity and pay.

If I weren't a lawyer, I'd be … A professional sunbather and world traveler.

 

Alessandra Stivelman

ALESSANDRA STIVELMAN

Title: Shareholder/Partner

Experience: Eisinger, Brown, Lewis, Frankel & Chaiet, 2014-present; Hall, Lamb and Hall, 2008-2009

Education: University of Miami, 2008; University of Southern California, 2004

What drew you to a career in law? Ever since I can remember, my father told me I was going be a lawyer. I adamantly disagreed and suppose that was my first attempt at litigating/negotiating. As an undergrad, I wanted to be a marine biologist. During my freshman year at USC, I took the basic courses in biology and chemistry and, while I loved biology, chemistry wasn't for me. I shifted my focus to environmental studies and psychology and since I still wasn't sure what career path I wanted to pursue, I decided to take the LSAT with a friend just to see how I would do and then applied to law school (thinking it would buy me a few more years of being in school and a legal education couldn't hurt, even if I wasn't going to be a lawyer). While originally I thought I wanted to pursue environmental law or just “learn” so that I could graduate and then do something else, I had the opportunity to work/intern in various areas of law and realized a career in the legal field was my true calling, at least temporarily. Eleven years later, I am still practicing.

Have you set a specific goal that you want to achieve in the next year? I'm always striving to grow my practice. To become a well-rounded person and a great attorney, I believe you should never stop learning. My grandmother is in her 80s and still takes classes and vigorously studies. My goal is to keep learning and educating myself as well as my clients. I'm Department of of Business and Professional Regulation-certified to teach a continuing education class to property managers and regularly teach condominium and homeowner association board certification classes around the state.

What has been your proudest career moment and your biggest hurdle? I'm most proud of being promoted to partner in 2014. That coincided with one of the hardest things I've ever done — becoming a mom in 2013 and then going on to have two more kids while staying at the top of my game and maintaining a law practice. My biggest hurdle is finding time to balance work and family life. While I want to “have it all,” I am constantly reminding myself that I can only do that with a balanced lifestyle.

Where do you fit on a 1-10 work-life balance scale with 10 being nirvana? Please explain. I aspire for the impossible goal of 10 but realistically am content with a 7. I do my best to juggle a household, special needs dog and cat, and balance my role as a mom, wife, daughter, friend and law partner. I've learned that there really is a cause and effect, so I try to be flexible. If I'm working late at a client meeting, I'll take time the following day to drop my kids off at school or leave work early to spend a bit more time with my family. My goal is to work hard and play hard — so family vacations are a big deal for me.

What is the top quality that you've used to succeed in the profession? Perseverance and self-reliance. I might not be the smartest person in the room or know everything, but I want to know everything. Nothing was ever handed to me. I've worked extremely hard and figured it out on my own as I went along. I have a true immigrant mentality, and it's been a blessing in my success.

Who is your favorite mentor and why? I'm fortunate to have four incredible grandparents. My paternal grandfather is a Holocaust survivor and respected author and my paternal grandmother is fluent in several languages and authored numerous books. My maternal grandfather spent his career as a commander and cartographer in the Brazilian navy, and his wife, my grandmother, raised three kids on her own while he was at sea for long periods of time. I've learned so much from all of them, and they have each shown me different ways to live life to the fullest.

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you? To not undervalue myself. That I deserve to have a seat at the table, just like everyone else. When I first started out practicing as a young female attorney, I was susceptible to the “imposter syndrome” and felt like I continually had to prove myself to my clients, opposing counsel and co-workers. I soon realized it wasn't just me who had doubts and with the help and encouragement of my husband, family, friends, partners and online groups, I learned how start valuing myself as an attorney and individual. The more I practiced, the more I realized that I was in fact more prepared, more knowledgeable and more persuasive than other fellow attorneys. I also learned how to utilize my background in psychology to my benefit as an attorney. As my legal career took off, I remained true to myself, my abilities and made sure to keep my “support group” handy for the rainy days.

What trends are you observing in the profession that you're excited about? There's a growing movement toward real work-life balance for all attorneys, not just women. There are organizations for young lawyers which are addressing concerns and unreasonable expectations. The Florida Association for Women Lawyers created a task force, and we now have 25 nursing rooms in Florida courtrooms. The Florida Bar also has efforts underway to do away with the stigma of mental illness. As a woman and mom practicing law and surrounded by other attorneys who are members of the “boys' club,” I fully support these efforts and trends.

What is the greatest challenge you see for the legal profession? Maintaining billable hours while moving for work-life balance and executive diversity. We need a greater representation of minorities in managing partner positions who can advocate for all.

If I weren't a lawyer, I'd be … An event planner, professional shopper and/or world traveler.

 

Justin Wales

JUSTIN WALES

Title: Senior Counsel and Co-Chair, blockchain and virtual currency practice

Experience: Carlton Fields, 2013-present

Education: University of Miami, 2012; University of California, San Diego, 2008

What drew you to a career in law? Perhaps a lack of imagination? I always enjoyed creative writing, but I enjoy eating and paying rent on time. By the end of college I knew that I had a skill set that could serve me well in law school, so I enrolled to see what a career in law actually looks like. I wasn't convinced I made the right decision until I won this award.

Have you set a specific goal that you want to achieve in the next year? I discovered bitcoin earlier than most and was lucky to be at a law firm that trusted me to develop a practice around my interest in it. In the years since starting the practice, we have built what I believe is one of the country's most sophisticated, interdisciplinary and cutting-edge blockchain and virtual currency practices in the country. My goal is to continue to develop the practice.

What has been your proudest career moment and your biggest hurdle? I was one of the baby lawyers representing the plaintiffs fighting to hold Florida's ban on gay marriage unconstitutional. I also was able to write one of the amicus briefs for the Supreme Court's Obergefell case. My proudest moments were getting to attend Florida's first same-sex marriage ceremony immediately after Judge Sarah Zabel overruled Florida's gay marriage ban and the day I got to read the Supreme Court's decision making equality the law of the land.

Where do you fit on a 1-10 work-life balance scale with 10 being nirvana? Please explain. I'm writing this while on paternity leave, so at the moment my work-life balance is at a 10. My baby is named Oliver, and he is very cute, so I'm hoping that number doesn't have to drop too low once I return to work.

What is the top quality that you've used to succeed in the profession? I try to only work with people who are pleasant to be around and very smart and only on matters that I believe in and find interesting. I recognize that not every young lawyer gets to be so picky, but when you are able to consistently check those boxes it's difficult not to find success.

Who is your favorite mentor and why? Richard Ovelmen is a well known First Amendment lawyer who I have worked with since I left law school. He not only trained me on how to be a writer and constitutional litigator but encouraged me very early on not to focus on maxing out my billable hours, but to spend time pursuing hobbies, personal writing and civic involvement. He also encouraged me to pursue my interest in blockchain and virtual currency at a time when it was not necessarily foreseeable that it would lead to a successful legal practice. He taught me that really good lawyers are not fungible and that if you have talent you could usually get away with being yourself.

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you? This isn't a dress rehearsal for life.

What trends are you observing in the profession that you're excited about? I am part of the first generation of lawyers that is able to take full advantage of new technologies in a way that fundamentally changes what it means to be an attorney. I love that my most productive days are spent working from a Starbucks near my house (Venti black iced tea, unsweetened), and I think the ability to work remotely will only continue to improve the quality of life and work product of our profession. Additionally, because our clients are younger and more technologically sophisticated than ever before, there is a tremendous opportunity for younger and more diverse lawyers to develop business and seek leadership roles that were previously not accessible.

What is the greatest challenge you see for the legal profession? Lawyers don't practice enough self-care and tend to prioritize billable hours over quality of life. I know too many lawyers that put far too much time into their career and not enough into themselves. That asymmetry will catch up on you, and when it does, it won't be pretty.

If I weren't a lawyer, I'd be … A writer. I'm not ruling it out.

 

Kenneth Wiggins

KENNETH WIGGINS

Title: Partner

Experience: Akerman, 2011-present; Kleinberg, Kaplan, Wolff & Cohen, 2009-2011; Morgan, Lewis & Bockius, 2006-2009

Education: College of William & Mary, 2006; Florida State University, 2002

 

Jonathan Williams

JONATHAN L. WILLIAMS

Title: Senior Counsel

Experience: Lash & Goldberg, 2018-present; Florida Office of the Attorney General, 2015-2018; Williams & Connolly, 2012-2015; Clerk to U.S. District Judge Lee H. Rosenthal, 2010-2011, and Circuit Judge E. Grady Jolly, 2009-2010

Education: Duke University, 2009; Princeton University, 2005

What drew you to a career in law? I thought I'd like a job that presents the intellectual challenge of sifting through a lot of complicated facts and rules and trying to build something coherent and persuasive out of that information. Add in helping individuals and organizations to navigate unfamiliar situations, and you've got a good set of challenges to keep things interesting.

Have you set a specific goal that you want to achieve in the next year? I hope to build on my state and federal appellate experience gained in government service to assist our firm's clients with appellate and complex trial matters.

What has been your proudest career moment and your biggest hurdle? My biggest career hurdle was figuring out how to transition to the Florida legal market from Washington, D.C., when marriage brought me here four years ago. It turned out to be a great opportunity. Rather than go to another firm, I joined the attorney general's office, where I got experience that I never would have gained as a young lawyer in private practice. My first appellate argument was before the Florida Supreme Court in a billion-dollar-plus tax case (the court reversed in my client's favor) and my first U.S. Supreme Court brief won a national honor. Those are some of my proudest career moments so far.

Where do you fit on a 1-10 work-life balance scale with 10 being nirvana? Please explain. Let's say 7. Litigation can get very busy, sometimes unpredictably so, and there are always challenges. But my firm values balance, and we help each other out to make sure everyone can achieve that over the long term.

What is the top quality that you've used to succeed in the profession? There is, alas, no substitute for hard work, but a strong sense of curiosity makes working hard to get to the bottom of an issue much easier.

Who is your favorite mentor and why? I've been lucky to have a lot of good mentors. Lee Rosenthal, the federal district judge for whom I clerked, stands out. She's incredibly hard working and generous, and her example shows that if you're going to be good at what you're doing, you need to enjoy it, have high standards for yourself and others, and take the time to do the job right. I see those same traits in Marty Goldberg and Alan Lash, my firm's founders.

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you? The best professional advice I've gotten also applies to the rest of life: Be reasonable (even if your opponent isn't). So many disputes waste client resources and burn goodwill with opposing counsel and the court — something you'll want to have for the issues that matter most.

What trends are you observing in the profession that you're excited about? It seems like there's a growing recognition how hard it is for young lawyers to get courtroom experience. I've seen more and more judges — including judges in Florida — establish procedures to encourage senior lawyers to give their junior colleagues stand-up time in court.

What's the greatest challenge you see for the legal profession? The greatest challenge is not new. As in many other areas, the temptation to misbehave for personal gain is strong in law. I've been fortunate to work with colleagues who recognize the importance of maintaining high character and ethics in legal practice.

If I weren't a lawyer, I'd be … A photographer.