Susman Godfrey Partner Gloria Park's Litigation Strategy: 'Why Not Me'

• Litigation is storytelling within strict limits: the facts don't move, but how you frame them does.
• A 'why not me' mindset can replace imposter syndrome in Biglaw.
• Attention to detail, not courtroom theatrics, separates strong litigators.
• Susman Godfrey hires exclusively from federal law clerkships, giving its litigators a shared foundation and an edge in the courtroom.
• Pro bono work outside your paying caseload can sharpen your skills as a litigator.

Litigation is storytelling within strict limits: the facts don't move, but how you frame them does.

Gloria Park's journey to becoming a Susman Godfrey partner is a testament to her unique approach to litigation. Growing up in a first-generation immigrant family, Park found solace in storytelling and chose law school as a way to 'tell stories for a living.' This mindset carried her through six challenging years as an associate, where she faced numerous obstacles before finally achieving partnership. Park's experience highlights the importance of attention to detail and effective fact-framing in litigation, rather than relying on courtroom theatrics.

Park credits her success to a simple yet powerful mantra: 'why not me.' This mindset allowed her to overcome the imposter syndrome that often accompanies being the first in one's family to enter Biglaw. By embracing this mentality, Park was able to focus on building her skills and expertise, rather than doubting her abilities. Her story serves as a reminder that with hard work and determination, anyone can achieve their goals, regardless of their background or circumstances.

So what sets strong litigators apart from the rest? According to Park, it's not the closing argument or courtroom theatrics that make a difference. Rather, it's attention to detail and the ability to effectively frame facts within strict limits. This requires a deep understanding of the law and the ability to distill complex information into clear, concise arguments. By focusing on these skills, litigators can build strong cases and achieve successful outcomes.

Susman Godfrey's unique approach to hiring exclusively from federal law clerkships gives its litigators a shared foundation and an edge in the courtroom. This approach allows the firm to attract top talent and build a team of skilled lawyers who are well-equipped to handle high-stakes cases. By focusing on building a strong team, Susman Godfrey is able to deliver exceptional results for its clients.

As a partner at Susman Godfrey, Park balances her demanding caseload with a variety of personal interests. She prioritizes her faith and community involvement, including attending church and singing in the choir. She also recently took up kickboxing as a way to stay active and focused. By maintaining a healthy work-life balance, Park is able to approach her cases with clarity and focus.

In addition to her high-stakes caseload, Park also prioritizes pro bono work. She believes that taking on pro bono cases not only benefits the firm's PR but also sharpens her skills as a litigator. By working on complex and often emotionally charged cases, Park is able to develop her expertise and build her confidence in the courtroom.

One of Park's most memorable experiences was taking her first deposition eight weeks into practice, alone, against a firm's global head of litigation. This experience taught her the importance of staying focused and composed under pressure. Despite the challenges she faced, Park was able to navigate the situation effectively and emerge with valuable insights that have stayed with her throughout her career.

Lawyers can take a cue from Gloria Park's approach to litigation, focusing on attention to detail and framing facts effectively rather than relying on courtroom theatrics.

Source: Original reporting via Biglaw Partner Dishes On Her Unique Path To Partnership