Meet Linda Aguirre
Linda Aguirre
Litigation Practice Development Manager,
Greenberg Traurig, LLP
1. How did you start working in the legal industry?
I have a BS in Russian from Georgetown University. While working for the university after graduation, I also used my tuition benefits to obtain a paralegal certificate at no cost. Soon after, I traveled to Kiev, Ukraine, where I was fortunate enough to secure a paralegal/office administrator/marketing position with Baker & McKenzie. The office there was very recently opened so I did a little of everything. It was a great opportunity to use my Russian, and as this was not long after the fall of the Soviet Union, it was a fascinating time to be in Kiev. I later went on to work for Baker in Caracas, Venezuela as well. The free paralegal certificate turned out to be quite valuable for me!
2. What advice would you offer to someone new to the industry?
(1) Learn as much about business and clients/potential clients as possible so that you can understand the clients and their point of view. (2) Learn about the service that your attorneys are providing from the inside out. Attend a trial, ask to review a case file, go to some hearings. You can only best assist attorneys if you understand the demands on their time and the bond they have with their clients. (3) Network. Join an association and keep abreast of current trends in your profession. Never stop learning. (4) Keep perspective and your sense of humor. You cannot survive in legal services without those two things.
3. Why did you join LMA and is it the same reason you are still a member?
I initially joined LMA to meet colleagues outside my own firm who were pursuing the same profession as I was so that I could learn about best practices and current trends affecting the industry. This is also why I have re-joined now that I have re-located across the country from Miami to Orange County.
4. What would people be most surprised to learn about you?
I love all types of (loud!) pop and rock music from every era and love going to concerts from Lady Gaga to U2 to Billy Joel.
5. What is your favorite thing to do when you are not at work?
Spend time at the beach with my husband, two daughters, and two cocker spaniels.