As we continue to meet more interesting women attorneys at L&B, we got a chance to sit down and talk with the dynamic Erica Valladares. Erica splits her time between our Labor and Employment and Government practice groups. Fluent in Spanish and a native of the Rio Grande Valley, Erica assists clients all over South and Central Texas with diverse and complicated matters.
Do you have a woman, inside or outside the practice of law, who inspires (or inspired) you in life?
I am fortunate to know so many inspiring women in my life but one person to whom I will always be grateful is Dawn Finlayson. I met her on a case where we represented co-Defendants and even though my time on the case was limited, she continued to reach out to me and invite me to participate in speaking engagements. I attribute her kindness and dedication to supporting other female attorneys as a big contributing factor in my professional development as a labor and employment lawyer. She was an excellent lawyer and wonderful person and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to learn from her.
What interested you in practicing law?
If you ask my mother she will tell you that I cared about fairness and equality from a very young age. Despite the negative attention lawyers sometimes get, the work we do is important and I enjoy being able to help clients through problems or disputes.
What is your favorite book?
I have so many favorites. My 5-year old self would say “Bernie the Bulldog.” My 17-year old self would say the “Count of Monte Cristo.” My 20-year old self would say anything written by Marian Keyes and my classical favorite is “Pride & Prejudice.” I also love “Letter to my Daughter” by Maya Angelou.
What is your favorite quote?
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams” by Eleanor Roosevelt.
What makes L&B a great place to work?
Hands down the people. I am so lucky to work in an office with colleagues that I respect and admire and who support me and encourage me to be the best person I can be. Our group lunches are some of the best times ever and our informal book club is a lot of fun.
Private: Erica Valladares
Ms. Valladares is a Shareholder in the firm’s labor and employment and government law sections, with experience representing both public and private clients in litigation and providing general advice and counsel. Ms. Valladares’ governmental background includes assisting municipalities, uti...
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