Attorney at Law Magazine sat down with Ashley Rawlins a.k.a. Car Crash Ash of Rawlins Law. Rawlins is a skilled personal injury attorney based in San Diego.
AALM: What inspired you to pursue a career in law, and how did you get started in the field?
AR: I wanted to be a lawyer since age 6. I have always loved to argue, to stick up for myself, others, and what is right and just.
AALM: What does it mean to you to be the first attorney in your family? Have any family members followed in your footsteps?
AR: Many people have attorneys in the family, whether they are parents or other family members. While that is ideal and nice to have, I feel not having that motivated me even more because I did not have an easy path. It means a lot to me to have accomplished becoming an attorney. No family members have followed in my footsteps.
AALM: Do you have any professional mentors who helped you find your footing in the profession. What are the best lessons they shared?
AR: I have had some great mentors who have helped me tremendously. Teachers growing up and other attorneys have helped shape and encourage the person/attorney I am. My tiger logo was inspired by a teacher who was very instrumental in my life. He always said to do what you love and Ride your tigers.
AALM: What is the story behind your slogan, “Car Crash Ash”?
AR: My practice consists mainly of car accidents so while Rawlins Law is the brand, Car Crash Ash is the personality. Many attorneys are viewed in a negative light, and I want to come across as the person I am. Approachable, creative, compassionate and willing to help others.
AALM: What has been the most rewarding aspect of your legal career thus far, and why?
AR: The most rewarding aspect of my career is helping injured people. Many attorneys and law firms only care about the large cases, but for me, some of my greatest rewards are cases that are car crashes where clients are genuinely grateful for our firm helping them, cases that are either really challenging that I am victorious on for the client, cases where other firms have turned down or dropped, and I am able to recover a settlement for the client! For me, having my own firm and being able to actually help people and choose what cases we accept is very rewarding.
AALM: Tell us about a case that changed your career, the way you practice law or shifted your perspective?
AR: Behind every case is a person who is injured. A person who has a story and needs help. Every single client matters to me no matter the size or value of their case and that is the way I practice law. I am honored to be able to help people and believe that God created me for this career.
AALM: What do you think sets your legal practice apart from others, and how do you differentiate yourself in a crowded field?
AR: I am myself. I am who God made me to be. I am genuine, honest, sincere, transparent, and I do not just talk the talk. I am not into over promising, but I will do everything that I can to fight, to be there for each and every client throughout the process.
AALM: What advice do you have for someone who is looking to start their own legal practice, and what are some of the key considerations they should keep in mind?
AR: Starting your own legal practice is challenging. Do it if you are doing it for the right reasons. Having a law firm is not just about being an attorney. There is a whole side to the business of law – running the firm, marketing, advertising, hiring, and so many other facets of the practice that many people do not realize until you begin.
AALM: How are you involved in the local community?
AR: I have been involved in numerous legal organizations and on the board for both legal and community organizations. I am working on getting involved more in local events throughout the community that resonate with me and my values.
AALM: How do you balance the demands of a legal career with your personal life, and what steps do you take to maintain a healthy work-life balance?
AR: Balance is a word that I struggle with. If you love what you do than it is not really work, right? So for me, I have a hard time getting completely away from it or shutting down because a client may need something after hours. Someone may get injured after work hours or on the weekends, so I try to be available as much as I can. Otherwise, I try to make time for my health/fitness goals and schedule time for self-care and time with family.
AALM: What is something our readers would be surprised to learn about you?
AR: I grew up a jock. I played basketball, soccer, and softball. I love sports, I am super competitive and hate losing. Also, I received two bachelor’s degrees in four years and graduated Dean’s List.
AALM: Looking back on your career so far, is there anything you’d change?
AR: No! I have no regrets and believe adversity has made me work harder and made me a better person and attorney.
