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Plews Shadley Racher & Braun LLP
Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law, 1996
Why did you decide to enter the legal profession?
In undergrad, I was a chemistry/psychology major and knew that there was some form of graduate school in my future. Described by my friends as a professional student, I took the GMAT, MCAT and LSAT and applied to all types of schools and programs. A very high LSAT score pushed my trajectory towards the law.
If you hadn’t pursued a legal career, what would you be doing?
If I wasn’t a lawyer, I think I would have a career in health care either working in the business side of a practice or health care system or in medical or pharmaceutical sales.
Who is someone who has inspired you in your career?
My former law partner, and founder of Plews Shadley Racher & Braun, Sue Shadley had a tremendous impact on my career. She set the bar high for me and other lawyers. She was an expert in her field—long held as the solid waste guru in Indiana and the only woman practicing in this area. I try to emulate her work ethic, candor towards colleagues and opposing counsel, while also intentionally and unapologetically following her lead to make time to do what brings me joy.
What makes a good lawyer/judge?
A solid ethical foundation is important for any good lawyer. A good lawyer remembers that being a zealous advocate doesn’t equate to demoralizing, being rude or personally attacking another person.
What is something you wish people knew about lawyers?
Practicing law is not a find and replace. Lawyers continue to research, be creative and interpret unique facts and apply law to help determine risk or probable outcomes, and sometimes this takes time and involves incurring fees. Nothing in my practice is cookie cutter, which is what I appreciate the most about my job.
Tell us about a “lesson learned” moment you’ve had in your career.
Early on in my career, I learned what it was to be a “street lawyer.” I was asked last minute to cover an out of town hearing. I asked to have the case file so I could review it to be prepared. I was told that there was no need because the likelihood of the defendant showing up was minimal. To my surprise, the defendant was escorted into the courtroom and the hearing proceeded with the judge asking for statements from each counsel. Thankfully, I was able to adapt what other lawyers said during my statement to the judge. After the hearing, I immediately called to complain to the other attorney, who promptly told me that I was now a “street lawyer”—adaptable, resourceful, able to think on my feet and I had just proven to myself that I can still advocate even when I am not fully prepared.
Tell us something surprising about you.
I am a Swiftie and a Hairbanger. I love pop, alternative, classic rock, jazz, classical, country music and, back in the day, ‘80s hair bands.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Be authentically yourself, then confidence naturally follows. Lead by example. Practice active listening. Remember not everything is about you.
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