Next Generation Women Leaders in Tech Law 2018: Sara Pollock, Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan
"As a litigator, I'm in the business of resolving disputes—bloodlessly where possible," says the Quinn Emanuel associate.
November 12, 2018 at 09:34 PM
3 minute read
Parachuting into a yearslong, multijurisdictional trade secret case as replacement counsel, Sara Pollock helped a Fortune 100 client escape for a tiny fraction of claimed damages before plaintiffs deposed a single employee.
Who is the most important mentor you've had thus far in your career?
Justice Kathryn M. Werdegar, retired, California Supreme Court
What drew you to practicing law in the technology industry?
The fast pace of product development and innovation in tech and the inveterate optimism of the people, who are following their passion.
What's the best part of working in the tech sector?
Tech is an incredibly exciting area in which to practice. It is transforming the way we live, work and interact with one another, and I enjoy playing my small role.
What's the biggest challenge?
Technology tends to change and develop much faster than the law, so yesterday's laws are often ill-suited for my clients' current issues.
How do you describe what you do for a living to people you're meeting for the first time?
As a litigator, I'm in the business of resolving disputes—bloodlessly where possible.
What's one way technology has made your life easier?
By embracing new technologies, we can achieve greater efficiency in almost every aspect of our lives. To take only one example, my law school class was the last to learn how to Shepardize cases using both books and online tools. I can say without the slightest hesitation that technology has made legal research exponentially easier, as well as more accurate and comprehensive.
One way it's made your life more difficult?
I'm not always ready for a selfie.
What's the best piece of career advice anyone ever gave you?
“Life is long.” In other words, you have time for multiple iterations.
In 50 words or less, what's the best way to address tech's gender gap?
Unfortunately, I don't have a 50-word solution. But the visibility of women in the industry, and in leadership roles, cannot be underestimated. It's also important to start early by encouraging participation in and access to STEM education, while also emphasizing that the tech industry is far more than just math and coding—there is room for all creative types.
Describe yourself in one word.
Dedicated.
What kinds of new technologies should tomorrow's lawyers be able to use effectively?
All of them! You can't explain the ins and outs of new technology to a judge or jury if you aren't able to use it yourself.
What's one area of technology that you're most excited about and why?
Autonomous cars. Traffic on the 101!
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