Blog #24

For my interview assignment, I interviewed a female attorney who practices probate and estate planning. During my interview with her, I asked her many questions that were gender related. Generally, she felt that she did not feel discriminated against as a female lawyer, but she did have some instances where she felt disrespected by others in her work environment because of her gender. When the lawyer I interviewed practiced in a mid-sized law firm, she was the only female attorney in her office. While she felt that she was part of the group and never left out or discriminated within the office because of her gender, she was denied an opportunity for partner based on her sex. A male attorney was given the partner position even though he had worked there for less time than she and was no better at his job than she. This frustrated her because from the beginning of being employed at the firm, she enthusiastically expressed in interest in becoming partner someday and strived toward that goal. This ultimately led her to leave the firm and start her own practice. The lawyer I interviewed also said that some male attorneys did not have as much respect for her because she was a female, and would make cracks about her sex. She said that you have to put them in their place before they start take advantage. She also said that once a female attorney becomes demanding or confrontational, people might stereotype that she is depressed, going through menopause, etc. The lawyer I interviewed said that one of the best things for a female attorney to do is never cry because that automatically gives the other attorneys the upper hand and makes you look weak. She also said to always put the client first and to never let personal issues or preferences prevent you from properly representing your client. She stressed the importance of remaining balanced in the professional workplace, and not being too emotional or to confrontational. The interview with this respectable female attorney was extremely beneficial because of the insights she provided on what it is like to be a female lawyer.