Practicing law is a privilege, a challenge, and a responsibility. As a woman in the legal profession, the journey is uniquely rewarding yet fraught with distinct challenges. I have built a career that I love, one that has allowed me to grow as a lawyer, a business owner, and a leader in the profession. My law degree has opened doors that I could not have imagined when I first entered law school, and while the practice of law—particularly family law—can be grueling, it is also deeply fulfilling.
In my experience, there are a few key lessons and insights that I wish I had known earlier in my career. These lessons come from years of practicing law, leading a firm, and working to improve the profession for all lawyers, particularly women.
The Reality of Practicing Law: A Sustainable Pace?
I love being a lawyer but let us be honest—our profession is demanding. The pace of family law, particularly as a divorce attorney, is often unsustainable. Clients come to us at some of the worst moments of their lives. They are emotionally drained, financially stressed, and seeking guidance as they navigate an incredibly personal and difficult transition. As their attorneys, we shoulder that burden, providing not only legal advice but also emotional support.
The result? Burnout is real. The stress of managing clients’ emotions, expectations, and legal outcomes can be overwhelming. Long hours, late-night emails, and the pressure to always be available takes a toll. It is one of the reasons why I have made attorney wellness a priority in my leadership roles.
For women, balancing the high demands of practice with personal life, family responsibilities, and self-care can be even more challenging. Too often, we feel the need to be everything to everyone—an outstanding attorney, a leader, a mentor, a mother, a partner, a friend. The expectation to “do it all” can lead to burnout and dissatisfaction.
What is the solution? Boundaries. Systems. Support.
Setting Boundaries: The Key to Longevity
Sustainability in the practice of law requires setting and enforcing boundaries. Women lawyers often struggle with saying no, fearing they will be seen as less dedicated or less competent. But the truth is, without boundaries, our careers can consume us.
Some strategies that have helped me:
Control Your Calendar – Schedule personal time with the same commitment as court dates or client meetings. Whether it is time for exercise, family, or just a mental health break, block it off and honor it. In addition, try to always have a vacation on your calendar.
Limit Constant Availability – It is easy to fall into the trap of answering client calls and emails at all hours. Set expectations early about response times and stick to them.
Delegate – You do not have to do everything yourself. Empower your team, train and trust them to handle responsibilities. Build a very strong village with no weak links. Your village is critical to your success and happiness.
By setting these boundaries, we protect our mental and physical health, making us better lawyers in the long run. You cannot lead if you are not well.
The Rewarding Side: Helping Clients Through Their Journey
Despite the challenges, being a divorce attorney is one of the most rewarding roles I could imagine. We are not just handling cases—we are changing lives. Our work has a profound impact on families, ensuring that clients walk away with dignity, security, and hope for the future.
For women attorneys, particularly in family law, our empathy and ability to connect with clients can be a significant strength. Many clients—especially women—feel more comfortable confiding in female attorneys, knowing we understand the emotional complexities of divorce.
While the practice is tough, there are moments that remind us why we do this work:
When a client gets the custody and parenting time arrangement that is best for their children. When a survivor of domestic violence gains safety and independence. When a fair financial settlement allows a client to rebuild their life.
These victories—big and small—make the challenges worthwhile.
Building and Leading a Team
One of the greatest joys of my career has been building my own firm, and leading a team of exceptional professionals. As a woman running a law firm, I have learned that leadership requires resilience, flexibility, vision, and a commitment to fostering a positive culture.
My team is the backbone of my success. The ability to surround myself with talented, dedicated people has been a game-changer. For women looking to build their own firms or take leadership roles, here are some essential insights:
Hire for Culture, Train for Skill – Technical expertise is important, but the right attitude and work ethic matter just as much. Hire great people. You can train them to be great lawyers. You cannot do very much with unmotivated and unkind people.
Mentor and Support Other Women – Lifting other women up and creating opportunities for them strengthens us all. Mention women in a room full of opportunities as a way to lift other women up.
Encourage Work-Life Balance for Your Team – If we want sustainable legal careers, we need to build work environments that respect personal time and well-being.
Owning my own business and running my firm has given me the autonomy to shape the kind of legal practice I believe in—one that values both excellence and well-being.
Attorney Wellness: Putting Lawyers First
One of the initiatives I am most proud of was my focus on Putting Lawyers First—especially through prioritizing attorney wellness. The legal profession has long glorified overwork, but that mindset is neither sustainable nor healthy.
Lawyer mental health and well-being should be at the forefront of professional development. Addressing burnout, depression, suicidal ideation, reducing stigma around seeking help, and implementing structural changes that allow lawyers to thrive are critical.
Women in law often face unique pressures, but by advocating for better wellness practices, we can change the culture for future generations.
Advice for Women Entering the Legal Profession
For women starting their legal careers, my best advice is this:
Know Your Worth – Do not undervalue yourself or let others define your career path.
Find Mentors and Sponsors – Surround yourself with people who will lift you up and advocate for your success.
Set Boundaries Early – Work-life balance is not something you figure out later—it is something you prioritize from the start and continue to do so every minute of every day.
Embrace Leadership – Women belong at the table. Do not be afraid to take on leadership roles, whether in your firm, bar associations, or community. Do it!
Support Other Women – The legal profession is better when we uplift each other. Empowered women empower women.
Work Hard, Play Hard: The Importance of Enjoying the Journey
Law is a serious profession, but that does not mean we cannot enjoy the ride. I have always embraced a “work hard, play hard” mentality. Success should not come at the expense of joy. Lawyers are notorious for neglecting their own happiness in pursuit of career goals, but what is the point of achieving success if we do not take the time to enjoy it?
Taking vacations, celebrating wins—both personal and professional—and finding hobbies outside of law are essential. We are better lawyers when we are fulfilled as people. Surround yourself with people that love you and be sure to nurture those important relationships.
Ultimate Piece of Counsel
Being a woman in law is a journey of challenges, victories, and growth. While practice, especially family law—can be exhausting, it is also profoundly meaningful. By setting boundaries, embracing leadership, and prioritizing well-being, we can create fulfilling, sustainable careers.
I am proud of the work I have done, the team I have built, and the legacy I am creating. For the women coming up behind me—keep pushing, keep striving, and never forget why you chose this profession in the first place. Law is a powerful tool for change, and women in law are changing the profession for the better. Smile. Find joy. Enjoy the wild but wonderful ride!
