The idea of facing criminal charges doesn't simply unnerve people - they are often terrified. Things race through their minds: They fear the police will come in the middle of the night and arrest them. Or worse, that they'll be hauled away in handcuffs -- with the neighbors watching.

So one of the first things I will tell a new client is that there is a process - and it can and will be discreetly managed. If necessary we will make arrangements to have a client formally surrender to police - but only if necessary. Another thing I tell clients facing charges is to keep their mouths shut: in any case in which the government is trying to convict you of something, it's very important to understand it's your business, no one else's, and talking about your situation can only undermine your own defense.

With my father's presence in the law all these years, I certainly have had to prove myself and my skills - more so than most other young attorneys. It was certainly difficult for me in the beginning, because when you're younger you don't have as much confidence. But I've learned steadily - not only from my father, but from many other first-rate attorneys. I've tried tough cases that last weeks. Sometimes I'm perceived as tough - tougher perhaps than I had to be - but part of that was to ensure none of my adversaries assumed I was a delicate flower.

I handle many civil cases as well, and I've run into attorneys who can be bullies - whose entire approach is to intimidate. Frankly, I think that's where being a woman has been a big advantage - I just won't rise to the bait of provocation. And sometimes it drives them nuts - and simply gives my client new advantages, a better negotiating position.

There are many similarities between criminal law and employment law - both have an aspect of David vs. Goliath - in criminal law it's the government bringing all its resources to bear on a single individual. And in employment cases the employer has deep pockets and a hostile, to-the-mat mentality. And I enjoy every minute of being the underdog in those situations - we wouldn't be bringing a case if the facts weren't on our side.

I love what I do - even more than when I started. That's why I'm always working for my clients and focusing on results that make a difference in their lives.