Attorney at Law Magazine First Coast Florida publisher Tom Brady sat down with Lauren Dyer to discuss her career and the mentors who’ve helped her grow as an attorney.
AALM: What drew you to this career? When did you first know you wanted to become an attorney?
Dyer: My mother encouraged me to go to law school. She told me that a law degree would benefit me no matter what field I entered. Throughout law school I was certain that I wanted to venture into business. However, while studying for the bar, I felt empowered and that is when I knew I wanted to become an attorney. I knew I had to utilize as much of what I was learning as possible to justify the bar prep experience!
AALM: Who is your current mentor? What is the best lesson they’ve taught you so far?
Dyer: My mentor is my division chief, Jason Gropper. Through his words and actions he has taught me to be thorough, work hard, show compassion, and never take bad work days home.
AALM: Who are some of your legal heroes? Why?
Dyer: My legal hero is Thurgood Marshall. Thurgood Marshall used his intelligence and the law as a tool to fight injustice despite being faced with intolerance, violence, and hate. His perseverance and experience motivates me daily. On the other hand, Monique Pressley is my modern day shero. Ms. Pressley is an attorney in Washington D.C. Her on-camera presence is amazing! I am influenced by her “trial-style” and admire how she asserts her intelligence and wit to zealously defend her clients.
AALM: What drew you to your current firm? How would you describe the culture there? How would you describe your role within the firm?
Dyer: I accepted a position as an assistant public defender in Brevard County, and soon after moved back to Jacksonville to serve as in-house counsel for Fidelity National Title Group. Although I loved the atmosphere and my colleagues, I missed helping others. I went back to the Public Defender’s Office in Jacksonville and have been there ever since!
My office culture can be described as professional, collaborative and passionate. We are constantly discussing our cases as well as trial and negotiation strategies. Because we counsel clients who are frequently at one of the lowest points in their lives, compassion, efficiency, and critical thinking are key. My role within the office is to manage and maintain my felony case load while providing zealous advocacy for my clients, support to my colleagues and positive energy while at work.
AALM: What do you enjoy doing outside of work? Hobbies? Sports?
Dyer: I absolutely love dancing! I cheered at the University of Maryland College Park, and danced for the Jacksonville Sharks while in law school.
AALM: What do you most hope to accomplish in the future?
Dyer: I hope to start a family with my fiancé and become a small business owner.
