Nicole Masnica
Associate, Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown
Age: 33
Hometown: Delafield
Education: Bachelor of Arts degree in political science with minors in sociology and philosophy from University of Minnesota Twin Cities, and juris doctor degree from the University of Wisconsin Law School
Previous position: Assistant state public defender in the trial and appellate offices of the Wisconsin State Public Defender
What’s a challenge you overcame to get here?
“Moving from government legal work into private practice is not always easy for those looking to make a career change. Potential employers may question your ability to succeed on the business side of legal practice. To quell those concerns, I educated myself on those aspects of private practice so I would be prepared to make the change when
the opportunity came.”
What are you most looking forward to in your new role?
“I am proud of the work I did in my past role, but I am very much looking forward to the ability to focus on a smaller number of cases and give my clients the extra attention that comes with having more time.”
Advice for law students and early-career attorneys?
“Learn as much as you can about the actual practice of law, regardless of the subject area. My skills are what they are today because my experience in both trial and appellate practice provided me with a unique perspective on how to effectively litigate a case. I also believe that creativity is so important to quality practice. Interesting legal questions are present in almost every case if you keep an open mind and look closely enough.”
Favorite thing to do in your free time?
“Hands down, my favorite thing to do is to spend time with my family – my husband and two little boys. They are the best.”
