Balancing Act

Panelists discuss ways to achieve work/life balance in the firm world

USC Law’s Career Services Office hosted the workshop “Work/Life Balance Private Practice” on Sept. 17, featuring panelists who spoke about:

– strategies to balance work, family and personal lives;
– law firm policies that help attorneys achieve work/life balance; and
– how students can learn more through OCI and callbacks about a firm’s support for employees seeking work/life balance.

The three panelists, including two alumnae, represent firms recently named to the “50 Best Law Firms for Women” list published by Working Mother magazine. Pictured left are Lisa Ruesch ’02 of Paul, Weiss; Tricia Cross of Arnold & Porter LLP; and Ileana Hernandez ’98 of Manatt, Phelps & Phillips LLP.

Here are some of their tips and observations:

“If work/life balance is important to you, be open about it, even in the interview stages. Nine years ago, when I first started practicing law, I never would have asked questions (about working an alternative schedule). Back then, it was all about billable hours, but there has been incredible and positive change since I graduated from USC Law. Firms are realizing that it’s better to keep talented people for the long term instead of hiring people who will bill like crazy for a couple of years, burn out, and then disappear because they want more balance in their life.”

Ileana Hernandez ’98, Partner – Manatt, Phelps & Phillips LLP, and mother of 2½-year-old twins. She worked a reduced schedule after returning from maternity leave and was made partner the following year. ”

“My part-time work schedule has allowed me to have a second child and take care of things at home in a way that would not have been possible if I was working full time. Paul Weiss’ alternative work program, however, is available to anyone, including men. Some people decide to work a reduced schedule to pursue interests outside of the office, not just for reasons related to family. Another way to achieve more balance in your life: Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You all have ended up at USC Law because you’re incredibly self-reliant. But when you’re juggling a tremendous amount of responsibility both at home and at work, you really need to build a strong professional and personal network to help you through.”

Lisa Ruesch ’02, Associate – Paul, Weiss and mother of two. She works a 65% schedule in her firm’s New York office.