The Miami office of Hogan Lovells has teamed up with the University of Miami School of Law’s student organization, Miami Law Women, to host a lunchtime panel event titled “Women in Big Law: A Conversation with Hogan Lovells Attorneys.” The panel will feature several of the firm’s Miami office female lawyers. The discussion will focus on the career paths of these esteemed women, what life is like in big law for women, and tips and tricks for success in the legal field.
The attorneys who will be participating in this panel are international arbitration partner Maria Eugenia Ramirez; health and white collar group counsel Stephanie Carman, J.D. ‘01; mid-level associate in the transactional group Dana Turjman, J.D. ’15; international arbitration foreign law clerk Juliana de Valdenebro; litigation group junior associate Paige Comparato, J.D. ’17; and finance senior associate Victoria Q. DeBayle, J.D. ’10.
The event will take place on October 24 at Miami Law in Room F-108. Lunch will be provided.
Hogan Lovells’ Stephanie Carman previewed some of the points of the discussion:
What are the biggest issues women face entering big law?
There are numerous surveys and reports discussing what women in big law face and some of the challenges are universal for all associates entering big law. Some of these challenges include, learning to keep track of your time in 6-minute increments, balancing assignments from multiple partners, finding the right niche and establishing good mentor relationships. Balancing family life and personal time are also important. Most firms are taking steps to address these issues.
How has the legal environment changed for women?
It is an exciting time for women in the law; general counsel, corporate leaders and other lawyers are committed to advancing women to leadership positions and we are seeing more women in these positions. Within the State of Florida, we have a female president of the Florida Bar as well as a female president of the Dade County Bar Association. Both organizations have only had a handful of women leaders in the past. Big law is adjusting and we expect to see positive trends.
What should women look for in weighing offers from big law firms?
Look for an environment in which you will be comfortable, with people whom you want to work for and with the possibility of flex time or reduced hours. Do your research, look at rankings and talk to people in the community about the firm. Determine what is most important to you, whether it's practicing a certain type of law, location, pro-bono and/or community involvement, and make sure the firm supports it.
Tips for a successful career?
Be a team player, get involved in your local community, try to find something you are passionate about, make an effort to be the best lawyer you can be and find a team you trust and that supports you.
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