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Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP
Indiana University McKinney School of Law, 2002
What makes a good legal support staffer?
It is important to understand the needs of people with whom you are working and then be purposeful in finding ways to address those needs. Additionally, key strengths include possessing a strong work ethic and being dependable, resourceful, flexible, skillful, honest, a good communicator and thoughtful in words and actions.
Why did you decide to become a legal support staffer?
I am a lawyer who is passionate about helping people develop their full potential. I was fortunate to join Taft when it created our professional development team. Each PD director is a lawyer. As Taft’s director of attorney learning and development, I have been able to help develop and implement training for all attorneys, work with firm leadership, and help our associates as they grow professionally and advance in their practice. At times, it requires creative solutions and customized plans to implement; other times, it requires strategic conversations and action/accountability measures. Being able to collaborate with fellow attorneys directly and assist in their professional development and career advancement is rewarding.
What makes a good lawyer?
A lawyer must be competent, creative, and conscientious. Respect for colleagues, on all levels, is paramount. The ability to be nimble when necessary is advantageous. Appreciate your resources and support, sow seeds of positivity into your team, and work to create an environment where you are a reliable, reasonable and resolute person. Lead by example in your actions and expectations and communicate clearly and effectively.
What’s something people might not know about the legal support profession?
As we support fellow attorneys, we also continue to learn and grow. We must stay current on trends, innovative solutions and have a vehicle to share this information. It is important that we have a seat at the table and the opportunity to contribute to conversations and add value through idea sharing.
What would you say to someone who is considering a career in legal support?
Do not diminish the value that you add to the team. This work is rewarding. I use my legal background to help others continue to develop their substantive knowledge.
Tell us about a “lesson learned” moment in your career.
One of the greatest compliments that I have received in this role is, “This was extremely informative and more helpful than I expected.” It is rewarding to help someone. Sometimes, a challenging start can develop into a positive outcome. Do not be discouraged, and do not give up.
Tell us something surprising about yourself.
Family is important to me, and I appreciate their continued advice and support. My husband is my rock. I speak with my father every day (and several times a day during football season), and my mother’s legacy continues to leave a lasting impression on my brother and me.
If you were not working in legal support, what would you be doing?
I would still be working in a role that helps people find solutions to challenges they experience.
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