IndyBar: Member Highlight: Adriana Figueroa

Adriana Figueroa
Active IndyBar Member

What is your current title/role?

I’m an assistant United States attorney with the Civil Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana. I help investigate and litigate against entities that violate federal civil rights laws or that engage in civil fraud. I also defend the United States in civil lawsuits.

How long have you been practicing law?

Approximately 8 years.

What other committees, projects or service roles are you involved in outside of your job?

I am the vice president of the board of directors of Christamore House, a member of the Alumni Association Board of Directors for IU Robert H. McKinney School of Law and a member of Indianapolis Bar Association’s Hispanic Lawyers Division.

What advice would you give a newly-admitted lawyer?

I have three pieces of advice. First, establish good habits early in your career. This will help you stay organized and focused. Second, do not neglect your hobbies or other personal life activities — make those things part of your daily routine; they are just as important as work deadlines. Lastly, prioritize your mental health, and never be afraid to ask for help.

Your mentor(s) and the greatest insight you’ve gained from them?

I’ve had many great mentors in my life. But three mentors who have played a significant role in my personal and professional life are Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson, Justice Frank Sullivan and Amy Judge-Prein. They are great examples of people with integrity, resilience and commitment to a greater purpose and who are not afraid of speaking up. They have made a big difference in the legal profession by creating opportunities and connections for others (like myself) who would otherwise not have access to those opportunities or connections.

What do you do in your free time?

I love to run, spend time with my family, friends and dog, and travel.

If you weren’t a lawyer, what would you be doing?

I would probably be doing some type of community outreach or humanitarian work, as I love working with and helping people. However, if money were no object, I would travel the world year-round and learn about other cultures.•