Five Questions With Rama Taib-Lopez

1. What made you become a lawyer?

I wanted to blend my economics background with international law by building a career in the field of international development and maybe get involved with an agency like USAID.  While I sure am far from that path, I still find my work rewarding and I enjoy applying the qualitative thinking to issues like alimony, child support, taxes, and business valuations. 

2. What is it like being a woman in a male dominated field?

In my experience, as a woman you always have to prove that you know what you’re doing. Sometimes, that can be frustrating. However, I also believe that the challenge builds strength that is much needed both in negotiations and in the courtroom.

3. What is the most interesting case you’ve ever had?

In family law, each case has its quirks!

4. What is the hardest part of being a lawyer?

The bottomless pit of continued education that’s necessary to do the job well.  In addition to all the day-to-day work that needs to be done, you have to make sure that you’re continuously honing your deposition and trial skills, learning new areas of the law, and keeping abreast of changes in the law.  I have to remind myself that although it’s hard, it’s also a big part of what keeps this job interesting.

5. What is the best career advice you have ever received? 

When I became a mom, a fellow attorney told me to accept the fact that you cannot be present at two places at the same time. You’ll have good days and bad. That took some time to get used to, but I found the advice to be oddly reassuring.