March is Women’s History Month and at Callahan & Blaine, we are keenly aware that throughout history and even today, women have had to work twice as hard to prove themselves. We are thankful for all those brave ladies before us, but the fight is far from over to achieve equity and equal representation in our schools, boardrooms, and in every sector across our government. We asked the fierce women of Callahan & Blaine about some of the struggles they’ve faced both personally and professionally in their fight to achieve success. Here’s what they had to say:
What is some of the advice you share with young women entering a male-dominated profession?
As a starting point, I think it is important for women who are in the early stages of their legal careers to know and believe that they should expect equal treatment. That expectation should be the framework and mindset in which they start all of their interactions, professional and personal. If a woman believes she is not being provided equal treatment, then she should demand it. Never be timid. Similarly, I advise women that if they see an opportunity or challenge they want (whether it’s to handle an important hearing, take lead on a meeting, etc.), then they should make this known. You lose 100% of the opportunities you don’t request. This advice holds true even if they don’t see similar opportunities being offered to their male colleagues. Not only will staking claim to opportunities demonstrate confidence, but it will also inform others that they can place their confidence and trust in you, which is a critical attribute in the legal profession.
While there are still instances of gender discrimination in the workplace, there have been many brave and accomplished women who have paved the path to lessen this form of discrimination in the legal profession. Setting the expectation of equal treatment, and then demanding it if necessary, will help ensure that their efforts were not in vain and that we continue to make strides forward. —Senior Attorney, Stephanie Sperber
Do you feel there’s a double standard in that men aren’t expected to juggle as much as women?
Juggling my family life, personal relationships, and career has by far been one of the most humbling and challenging chapters of my life. I have worked hard in my career and for my successes, all the while managing the expectations of society that I still attend the PTA meetings, care for my children when they are sick, and attend my parents’ doctor appointments and business appointments. It’s a juggling act like no other.
In many instances in my career, I’ve been the recipient of the comment, “Maybe this commitment is just too much for you to handle given your personal obligations.”
My mother often says, “Well I did it with six kids… but then again I didn’t work as much as you do.”
Right now, as I stand here at this point in life, I’m in what I lovingly call the “sandwich generation.” I am watching the circle of life happen right before me in between my children and their children – and my parents. At the same time, I am determined not to fail at my career or show weakness that would make being a woman like myself look “less than.” There is definitely still an old-school mentality that forces us to still make dinner, care for the family of multi-generations and prove that we can maintain our careers without personal interference. The trick is, don’t give up and don’t be afraid to fall – laugh at yourself – ask for help – and get back up! —Laurali Kobal, Firm Administrator
Have you ever felt underestimated in your professional abilities or had a challenging time leading men?
I remember working on a construction defect trial that involved a $100 million dollar estate. Opposing counsel brought in a team of three guys to run their trial technology. They were a flashy team with a lot of equipment. There I was at the other table, just me and my laptop. A co-worker of mine that attended the first day of trial actually chuckled and said “good luck.” It was a bit intimidating at first, but once I focused on the presentation I had put together, all nervousness subsided. Opposing counsel’s technology team had problem after problem over the three-week trial and their reactions were very disruptive. I do remember having a couple of glitches in our presentation, but it’s technology, there will always be glitches. Staying calm, not reacting negatively, and quickly getting back on track is where I kept my focus. Because of all the problems opposing counsel’s technology team was having as the trial was wrapping up, I was asked to take-over presenting their exhibits as well. It was one of those experiences that drove home the comfort of knowing I do have what it takes to get the job done.
From time-to-time people will doubt you and question your skills. Never let that hold you back. It is important to stay confident in yourself and know that you have what it takes to get the job done. —Debora Halbert, Senior Paralegal
How do you achieve a work-life balance?
Over the years, I have managed to achieve a work-life balance as a busy attorney and mom/wife. Initially, when I started practicing law, I had devoted so many hours to my work that I had little time for anything else outside of work. I now work part-time with the flexibility to work from home when necessary, which ensures that I can spend much-needed quality time with my family. This balance has had an overall positive effect on my career and my overall well-being. —Sharon Yuen, Attorney
If you could go back in time and give your younger self career advice, what would you say to her?
I would have to start by saying to put fear aside and be fearless. Fear will stop you in your tracks, and it will limit you, and in the end, stop you from achieving your goals. No matter what, trust your gut, and remember you can accomplish anything if you set your mind to it! Another thing I would say is to stop underestimating your capabilities, value yourself highly and others will follow. Most importantly, don’t ever lose confidence in your God-given abilities. Lastly, have patience; always remember Rome wasn’t built in a day. Take every opportunity that comes your way, learn from it as much as you can, like if your life depended on it. Then take that information to open other avenues for better opportunities in the future. Even if you have to take small steps, these will bring you closer to your goals whatever they may be.
In today’s corporate world women are an essential asset, as they provide various perspectives and ideas to solve difficult problems encountered. Most importantly, remember, it’s up to you how far you want to go. And even if nowadays we have to compete with other men, remember if you have the determination and willpower to make your dreams come true, you can be a successful woman whether it is being a mother, a wife, or an important asset to your company. —Maria Martinez, Legal Assistant
As a woman, did you feel like you faced more hurdles than men do in the professional world? What have those hurdles been?
I would say the number one hurdle is being a mother and having to juggle growing your career as well as raising your children and managing your household. I worked full-time and went to school at night full-time while expecting my first child. I was exhausted and wanted to give up many times, but I persevered and earned my degree in paralegal studies. I am very fortunate to work for a company that allows me to be a mother and grow in my profession as well. Women in general are made to feel that we have to be a mother or a professional, and with a great company and my supporting husband, I know I can do both. —Jennifer Aguilar, Assistant Administrator
