Our Interview With Megan Blancho, President at Okaloosa County Women Lawyers Association

Juris Education interviewed Megan Blancho, President at Okaloosa County Women Lawyers Association.‍

Since Okaloosa County Women Lawyers Association has a long history of supporting women in the legal profession, what lessons from that history can aspiring law students take with them as they begin their journey?

As a law student or new lawyer, it is important to remember that you are not alone. There are organizations and programs to assist, guide, and support you along your journey. Some organizations such as the FAWL (Florida Association for Women Lawyers) have law student membership opportunities. Both men and women are members of FAWL as this is an organization for women and not just of women.

What barriers do you believe still exist for women in law, and how can the next generation of female attorneys work to overcome them?

Women are still undervalued in some law firms with concerns of being placed on the “mommy track” receiving reduced opportunities with unrealistic expectations.  Past and current lawsuits challenge these outdated practices. Proactive policies providing mentorship and support are needed to navigate a balance of achieving a fulfilling legal career and family life. FAWL was instrumental in recent legislative changes that now require all Florida courthouses to provide a lactation space. Many of the successful women lawyers I know own their own practice.

How have you fostered mentorship, and what advice would you give young women seeking mentors during law school and early in their careers?

As a solo practitioner and one of the founding members of OFAWL (Okaloosa County Chapter of FAWL), I have worked with other women to provide a forum to share experiences and concerns with support and understanding. None of us should practice law in isolation. I love being a lawyer and I am dedicated to serving my clients; but it can be an emotionally and mentally draining career. It is important to take care of yourself so that you can take care of others. In Florida, all new bar members are automatically enrolled in the Young Lawyers Division and Florida has established Counsel to Counsel, a mentoring program designed to pair new lawyers with those who are more established in their careers. Wherever you are, I encourage you to seek out opportunities to get involved outside of your legal studies. Making connections early and finding valuable resources will aid you throughout your career so that hopefully you will one day be a mentor to others.

From your perspective, what qualities or skills set apart women lawyers who thrive in competitive environments, and how can pre-law students begin cultivating those now?

In my experience, I have found many women lawyers to be extremely dedicated and invested in both their work and professional reputation. Focus on finding solutions even when the odds seem stacked against you. Creative problem solving, networking, and volunteerism will aid you and others throughout your life. If you are pre-law, I encourage you to consider joining Toastmasters (practice and develop public speaking skills), and/or become involved in other local professional organizations. The opportunities and support are out there and waiting for you to join.

For more information on Okaloosa County Women Lawyers Association, visit https://www.ofawl.org/.

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