Mary-Alice Barrett, assistant general counsel for Genentech Inc., has played a critical role in defense of the long-running Accutane mass tort litigation since her time at Genentech parent company Hoffmann-La Roche Inc. She took on responsibility for the litigation in 2008 and is credited with raising the issue of admissibility standards for plaintiff expert scientific testimony—an issue that eventually would come before the New Jersey Supreme Court. In August 2018 the court issued its ruling, shaping the law and reinstating dismissal of some 2,000 Accutane cases in the process. Barrett previously practiced at law firm Porzio, Bromberg & Newman, and in-house at Bristol-Myers Squibb.

What's your single best piece of advice for handling a crisis?

Breathe. And then collaborate with trusted advisers who will help you see the big picture and tell you the truth.

Name a mentor or someone you admire, and why.

Connie Matteo was assigned to be my mentor on my first day at Porzio. Over the years, she has provided excellent guidance, support and counsel. Most importantly, she has become a dear friend.

Best advice you ever got…

Don't be afraid to ask questions and admit “I don't know.”

What has the #MeToo movement meant to the legal profession?

I have a unique perspective because I have reported to women for almost my entire legal career. This means I always believed I had an avenue to report improper and inappropriate conduct. Now, I see two significant issues. First, many people are not aware of the more subtle discrimination, bias and harassment that exists; firms/organizations should be encouraged to openly discuss these issues. By identifying such activities, firms/organizations can develop strategies that reduce or eliminate them and their effects. Second, there are reports of backlash where men avoid working with or mentoring women to “avoid” any issues. In addition to the potential litigation risk by treating women differently than men, this is unfortunate as these women need mentoring, sponsorship and exposure to clients to further their career development. I hope organizations and firms affirmatively encourage male attorneys to mentor and sponsor female attorneys.

In 50 words or less, what does the legal profession need to do to improve opportunities for women lawyers?

Clients can and should drive their counsel to provide opportunities to women lawyers. I want my teams to reflect the diversity of my company and its patients. Such diverse litigation teams are a major factor in our successes.