“As a federal prosecutor, my job is much more than just a job. I have a sense of duty and conviction about what I do. I have a responsibility to the victims, the public and the defendants, and to myself, to carry out the law. It’s hard not to be fulfilled by what you do when you know that you are taking a violent felon off the street and making the world a slightly better place. But you need more than just a sense of fulfillment. As a litigator, you need to always be prepared for the unexpected — whatever may come your way. Sound judgment, instinct and the ability to think on your feet are essential skills. During my first week at the U.S. attorney’s office I was asked to give a substantive argument, and I remember feeling nervous about it. But I wasn’t completely out of my element because the experiences I had while at Paul, Weiss had prepared me for that kind of challenge.”

“When you’re talking about a corporate lawyer, to me, aside from technical skills, aside from familiarity with the law, aside from thoroughness — the real key to being a great lawyer is having great business judgment.

You need to advise on a tactical and strategic level as well as on a legal level. You need to really understand your client’s business objectives and partner with them to accomplish them.

I have a fairly unique perspective on Paul, Weiss, having been an associate at the firm as well as a longtime client — I consider myself a member of the extended Paul, Weiss family. I would describe Paul, Weiss lawyers in three words: smart, tireless and innovative. They have great business judgment. They are not afraid of complexity, and they always get the deal done in a thoughtful manner that achieves our objectives. That’s what makes the Paul, Weiss approach to deals special.”

“Great lawyers are made, not born.

The firm that you choose and the legal experiences you have there will in many ways shape your career. One of the best things about being an associate at Paul, Weiss was working with people who were always thinking in rigorous and creative ways about complicated legal problems. That is one of the reasons associates thrive at Paul, Weiss — they constantly reach out to each other to discuss arguments, difficult legal problems or strategy. It was incredibly fulfilling to be surrounded by so many bright and committed people who were willing to take the time to help you, even though they were busy.”