Women in Law

1. Why did you become involved?
"I went to law school thinking I would specialize in child welfare law, but quickly realized that was not an area that I could practice every day. Huge kudos to the lawyers who do that work day in and day out. I became involved with Paths for Families because I believe in the mission – every child deserves love, stability, and a permanent family. Being on the Board makes me feel like I am helping to make a difference in children’s lives."

2. What do you hope to accomplish in your Board role?
"I hope to use my skills to support the mission of Paths for Families in any way that I can, whether that be networking or assisting with fundraising efforts."

3. Why is it important for lawyers to do more than just practice law?
"Being a lawyer is my profession, but I am so much more than just that. It’s important to support your other interests and hobbies - one for your mental health, but two to have a wide range of perspectives to draw from as you are working through cases."

1. Why did you become involved?
"I became involved with the Women’s Bar Association of DC when my son left for college and I found myself with “extra” time. I attended the WBA’s Annual Dinner and happened to sit at a table with a long-time member. I mentioned that I would love to become more involved with the WBA—she asked my area of practice and it just so happened that they needed a co-chair for the tax sub-committee. Voila. I was instantly very involved with a great group of women lawyers!"

2. What was the path to your current leadership role?
"I started as a co-chair of the tax group, and then took on several additional co-chair positions in different areas. Through attendance/hosting many events, including attending those of the WBA Foundation, I became good friends with many other members and colleagues. Eventually I was asked to run for a seat on the board of directors, and am now an active member of the WBA Board."

3. What do you hope to accomplish in your Board role?
"In this uncertain time, we hope to have some influence by joining with other bar associations on amici briefs to strengthen and preserve the rule of law. Several of us have also been representatives of the WBA at fascinating meetings at the German Embassy, where lawyers from the US and throughout Europe gather to discuss additional steps to strengthen the rule of law throughout Europe and the US. Our focus is on education and communication."

4. Why is it important for lawyers to do more than just practice law?
"I think it is important for lawyers to become an integral part of the legal community and the community at large since we are privileged to have had the opportunity to obtain legal training, along with subsequent legal experiences, that could enrich the lives of our neighbors."

The COVID-19 pandemic brought about tremendous uncertainty for everyone and immediate, pressing questions for Merry Campbell‘s clients. With almost no warning or time to prepare, employers had to deal with massive fluctuations in economic situations and changes in the way they needed to approach the health and safety of their employees and businesses.

“Merry saw us through all of the changes COVID brought…and she helped us every step of the way. She made sure the organization was protected. She gives you the tools to keep your company safe.” – Ebony Clark

Merry was a true ally during these difficult times. She worked with her team to deliver timely Legal Alerts, and through her regular counseling practice, webinars and zoom calls, she provided practical advice on the existing and new legal challenges to workforce decisions brought on by the pandemic. She was able to focus clients on essential concerns and to provide peace of mind that they had considered all options and obligations before taking action.

COVID-19 has changed us all. Merry rose to the challenge…and continues to find new ways to deliver value for her clients.

Our women shareholders place special emphasis on mentoring female associates. The women attorneys meet monthly to share successes, professional tips, educational opportunities and discuss other hurdles encountered in legal practice.

Our firm culture plays a crucial role in attracting talented, capable and passionate lawyers poised to become integral members of our team. Committed to creating an environment conducive to the fullest development of our lawyers' skills, we offer a dynamic atmosphere and innovative practices to address our clients’ evolving needs. This unique blend provides our associates with substantial personalized training and significant responsibilities early in their careers.

Recognizing that attracting top-tier lawyers is just the initial phase in building mutually rewarding professional relationships, we actively support the ongoing professional growth of our women attorneys. We offer professional and business development training programs, mentoring initiatives and encourage participation in firm committees and culture-building social events.