Elizabeth “Liz” Delnegro began her career in HR management, but a reactive HR director pushed her to pursue a legal career with the intention of becoming an employment lawyer. The law had other plans for her, though. Law school piqued her interest in business and tax law, so she went on to earn her executive LLM in tax with international taxation certification from Georgetown. In 2021, she moved in house at a renewable water company. “It sparked my passion for renewables, including energy.”
Today, she’s returned to private practice with a focus on renewable tax credits, tax equity structuring and related corporate work, allowing her to blend her tax expertise with industry impact.
AALM: What were some of the challenges you encountered when entering law school?
LD: The real challenge was getting to law school as a first-generation college and law graduate without lawyer contacts. The application process felt overwhelming, but I got through it. Though daunting, this path allowed me to take an unconventional route and seize unique opportunities.
AALM: Can you tell us about any of your mentors and some of the best lessons they’ve imparted on you?
LD: I’ve had many mentors throughout life, especially since law school. My husband, Jon, guided me through applications, built my confidence, and he continues to offer business insights, reminding me to give practical legal advice. Mentors like John Phelps, Lynda Shely, Michelle De Blasi, Mark Lassiter, and John Kaites have also shaped me. John Phelps and Lynda have guided me since my 2L year. Countless others have contributed, forming the foundation of my career.
AALM: How has your work as a corporate counsel impacted your work in private practice?
LD: Corporate counsel experience taught me to be practical and business-focused. Unlike law firms’ risk-averse, academic style, business leaders need actionable advice. I now frame options by risk level-least, moderate, high-with mitigation strategies, helping decision-makers choose based on their risk appetite. I also understand in-house urgency; everything’s a priority. This lets me respond quickly, aiding in-house counsel to meet tight deadlines and support their teams effectively.
AALM: What drew you to Pierson Ferdinand? Tell us a bit about your role there.
LD: I discovered Pierson Ferdinand at the 2023 International Bar Association conference in Paris through an inspiring and brilliant lawyer, Maryam Meseha, who described her firm’s culture. When seeking my next move, I learned she and colleagues were launching Pierson Ferdinand in 2024, aiming for a positive culture with ex-big law attorneys. I joined eagerly. As co-chair of the energy, renewables, and sustainability group, I lead client solutions in these innovative sectors.
AALM: What are some of the challenges or some of the strengths to being a woman in the practice of law?
LD: Being a woman in law has challenges, but I enjoy being underestimated-it’s a strategic edge. Women often face struggles routinely, equipping us to adapt to challenges fluidly. For many women, crisis management is just another Tuesday. This resilience helps me tackle complex legal issues with a calm, solution-focused approach.
AALM: Looking back on your career, is there anything you would change?
LD: Reflecting on my career, I’d change nothing. Every misstep and decision led me to a perfect fit today. I’m grateful to God for each moment, as each one has helped build the foundation for my current success and fulfillment.
AALM: Looking ahead, what more do you hope to accomplish in your career?
LD: I aim to expand my impact in renewables globally, driven by my passion for international tax law. With some global clients already, my goal is half my practice being international, supporting sustainable innovation worldwide.
