DC Rising Stars: Sparkle Sooknanan, 36
When I left the Caribbean at age 16 for college in New York, I never envisioned clerking for a Supreme Court Justice, or becoming a Jones Day partner.
August 03, 2020 at 02:00 AM
2 minute read
Employer: Jones Day Title and Practice Area: Partner, Issues & Appeals
Describe your biggest win or accomplishment in practice. As an associate, I was given the opportunity to argue an important appeal. I was the only associate on my feet that day, arguing against partners from three major firms, including two well-known Supreme Court practitioners. We won the case and secured a big and unexpected win for our clients.
What was the most valuable lesson you learned in your first year practicing law? Prepare, prepare, prepare. Whatever the task, nothing is more important than being thoroughly prepared. A close second is learning to pivot when necessary. More often than not, things change, and you need to be flexible enough to change course along the way.
Who is your greatest lawyer mentor and what has he or she taught you? I am exceedingly fortunate to have the very best of mentors in Justice Sonia Sotomayor. She has taught me a great deal about the law and life. Two things stand out. First, the work you do best is the work you love. Second, savor life—enjoy and learn from each moment.
Please share a brief key to your success. Relationships. Tenacity. Being open to possibility and ready to seize every opportunity. All have helped me achieve more than I could have imagined. When I left the Caribbean at age 16 for college in New York, I never envisioned clerking for a Supreme Court justice, or becoming a Jones Day partner.
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