Attorney at Law Magazine First Coast publisher Thomas Brady sat down with Giselle Girones of Shullman Fugate PLLC to discuss her career and her plans for her future as this issue’s Rising Star.
AALM: When did you first know you wanted to become an attorney? What drew you to this career?
Girones: I have always been interested in the law but was really drawn to this career path through my undergraduate experiences. I was a communications and sports management major and really enjoyed the media and entertainment side of it but was still fascinated by the legal field. I decided to merge my interests for both, and the rest is history.
AALM: How would you describe your practice?
Girones: My practice area focuses on media, intellectual property and business law. I have the opportunity to represent media organizations as well as businesses and individuals in both media and intellectual property matters with a focus on First Amendment issues. I have always been interested in the media and entertainment field, in fact, I was a contributing writer for my college’s newspaper and also freelanced for a local magazine. My experiences throughout undergrad, working with one of the largest music labels in the industry, furthered that interest which continued to grow during law school. To have the chance to help individuals, businesses and the media protect their rights and ideas is truly rewarding.
AALM: Do you have any mentors or professors that encourage you?
Girones: From professors and staff at Stetson University College of Law, to the partners I work with, partners I used to work for at my previous firm, and the wonderful attorneys I get to work with through my involvement with Jacksonville Women Lawyers Association and the Jacksonville Bar Association young lawyers section board of governors, I am lucky to say I have so many individuals that encourage and/or motivate me.
AALM: What do you find particularly rewarding about being an attorney?
Girones: The fact that I get to help protect the First Amendment by defending individuals and/or the media to ensure their free speech rights are protected is truly an honor. It also rewarding to know that we are on the frontline of a lot of topical and pressing issues that help inform the public.
AALM: What drew you to your current firm? How would you describe the culture there?
Girones: I was drawn to my current firm based on the practice area and the fact that I felt the partners were genuinely invested in my growth as a lawyer. We are an all-women firm and it is incredible to have the opportunity to learn from well-respected, and in my opinion, the best attorneys in the field. Although I am an associate, our culture is very much team-oriented, and my ideas and input are equally valued. I am grateful to get to work with like-minded, highly motivated individuals who continuously push each other to do better.
AALM: What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Girones: I enjoy spending time with my fiancé and our mini dachshund. I also enjoy watching college football (Go Noles!), painting, and catching up on the latest shows.
