Jennifer Deal, Kilpatrick Stockton, Atlanta (Courtesy photo)

Current primary practice area: Trademark, unfair competition and false advertising litigation.

Experience: Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton, Oct. 2011-present; clerk for District Judge J. Owen Forrester, U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia, August 2009-August 2011.

Education: Emory University School of Law, 2009; Valdosta State University, 2006.

What drew you to a career in law?

I love to problem-solve. As a lawyer, I get to do that every day. But I've also learned that not all problems have solutions, not all problems need a solution and that sometimes what you think is a problem isn't a problem but an opportunity instead. I've enjoyed expanding my mindset over the years about what it means to “problem-solve” and love that my job allows me to keep growing.

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

I'm really focused on mentoring and retention. A colleague of mine and I have been speaking extensively with associates in our practice group about what additional mentoring or training they think would help them be more successful and would increase our chances at retaining them long term, and we are working on implementing a formal program addressing those needs.

What has been your proudest career moment and your biggest hurdle?

My proudest moments have all arisen out of my pro bono work for AVLF's Safe Families Initiative. I'm always so inspired by the strength of my clients, especially the strength it takes them to seek help in a very dangerous situation. I'm proud to be even a small part of their lives.

My biggest hurdle has been discovering that in the law there isn't always a “right” answer or a “right way” to do the job, but I am grateful to be surrounded by phenomenal colleagues who constantly open my eyes to new ideas.