Latina Legal Minds

Empowering Latinas to Succeed In Big Law with Vanessa Gomez

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Description

Episode Overview: In this episode, we sit down with Vanessa Gomez, a trailblazing attorney and the founder of Lawtinas in Big Law. Vanessa shares her inspiring journey from being the first lawyer in her family to creating a supportive community for Latina attorneys in Big Law. She offers invaluable insights into the challenges and rewards of a career in Big Law, the importance of mentorship and sponsorship, and how pro bono work has grounded her throughout her legal career.

Key Topics Covered:

  1. Vanessa's Career Path:

    • From a paralegal to a finance professional, and eventually a Big Law associate.
    • Overcoming challenges as the first lawyer in her family.
    • Navigating the steep learning curve of law school and Big Law practice.

  2. Challenges in Big Law:

    • The high level of responsibility and the need to be well-versed in various areas of law.
    • Learning to navigate firm dynamics, politics, and the partnership track.
    • The importance of building relationships across departments and practice areas.

  3. Pro Bono Work:

    • Vanessa's motivation for engaging in pro bono work, inspired by her upbringing in a low-income community.
    • Balancing pro bono work with billable hours and how it enhances courtroom experience.
    • The impact of pro bono work on her personal and professional life.

  4. Lawtinas in Big Law:

    • The founding of Lawtinas in Big Law to combat isolation and build a community for Latina attorneys.
    • The initiative's rapid growth and its role in providing mentorship and support.
    • Uplifting Latinas in the legal profession and increasing retention in Big Law.

  5. Mentorship and Sponsorship:

    • The critical role of mentors (advisors) and sponsors (advocates) in career advancement.
    • Vanessa's personal experiences with mentorship and her ongoing search for a strong sponsor within her firm.

  6. Advice for Aspiring Big Law Attorneys:

    • Encouraging aspiring attorneys to believe in their capabilities, even in the face of underrepresentation.
    • Viewing Big Law as a valuable stepping stone for acquiring skills, resources, and opportunities.
    • Addressing the misconception that working in Big Law is "selling out" and highlighting its benefits.

  7. The Power of Connection:

    • How social media and technology enable Latina attorneys to connect, support, and collaborate across the nation.
    • The importance of sharing stories and uplifting each other within the legal profession.

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