Why I Lawyer: Q&A with Amie Aldana

Why did you decide to become a lawyer?

After graduating from Pomona College and working for a few years in the nonprofit sector, I wanted to get into a field that was focused on intellectual challenge and would give me a versatile skill set that could lead me down many paths. It was one of the best decisions I ever made.

How has being a lawyer helped you in other areas of your life?

I am the daughter of immigrants and am passionate about serving the immigrant community. My pro bono work allows me to help that community find a legal pathway to remain in the United States. My pro bono work has focused on U-Visa, green card, asylum and Special Immigrant Juvenile Visa applications. It is very rewarding work.

What are your plans for Hispanic Heritage Month beyond the workplace?

Nothing concrete as of now, but my husband and I took dance lessons before getting married last year and learned the rumba with some cha-cha mixed in. We had so much fun that we promised each other that we would go back to the studio to learn other types of dance so maybe this will be the nudge to get on that!

What part of your practice do you consider to be the most innovative, and what areas are you most passionate about?

I love my practice and think it is innovative in and of itself! International employment is an area where I can serve as a US-based contact for clients and advise on international workplace matters. This ranges from advising on global employment issues spanning dozens of jurisdictions such as within M&A or reduction in force contexts to preparation of employment agreements or handbooks and advising on how to employ or engage individuals in a foreign country. Clients truly appreciate our global reach and consider our services invaluable (and we spare them from coordinating advice with local counsel across multiple countries).

How do you enjoy spending a day off?

I am a voracious consumer of podcasts as they allow me to run around doing all sorts of other things while listening and learning! My husband and I are also huge adventurers. We went gorilla trekking in Rwanda and on safari in Tanzania last year for our honeymoon, and this year we will be visiting Jordan and Tunisia.