Lisa is a partner at Smith, Currie & Hancock. She practices in the area of construction and real estate development. Lisa is board certified in construction law by the Florida Bar and licensed in New York. She obtained her Bachelor and Juris Doctor degrees from the University of Miami.
Favorite quote: What you seek is seeking you. — Rumi
Fun fact: Ran seven marathons on three continents
How do you unwind after a long day of work? Tall glass of champagne and kisses from my pups.
What challenges have you faced in your career, and how did you overcome them? I see every challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow and sometimes pivot. There is no challenge I haven’t overcome to be standing here today.
What has been the most monumental moment of your career thus far? According to a 2018 Vault/Minority Corporate Counsel Association study, Women of color account for 14 percent of associates but only 5 percent of non-equity partners and a mere 3 percent of equity. Becoming an equity partner at Smith Currie and Hancock, LLP is an accomplishment that not many in my position obtain.
Who are your role models? My grandmothers. Both suffered abuse and setbacks but never gave up seeking a better life for themselves and their children.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever gotten? There is only one Lisa, so be yourself.
What advice would you give a young woman at the start of her career? It is not the end of the world if someone tells you no. “No” means that there is another path or way to accomplish what you want.
How has being a woman impacted your career? Michelle Obama reminds us that “there’s is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.” Working in an area of law dominated by men, I have always felt being a woman gave me an advantage to analyze things differently.
