40 Under Forty Awards 2024
Stephanie Friedel | 35
Senior Associate, Duffy & Sweeney Ltd.
What is the biggest challenge currently facing your industry and how are you responding to it? One issue with litigation specifically is that with the scarcity of trials due to the expense and complexity of modern discovery and the changes brought about by COVID-19, it can be hard for younger attorneys to gain the courtroom experience they need to feel confident and to succeed. Now that I am in a mentoring role, I encourage the next generation to observe other lawyers in court, to participate in trainings such as the Litigation Academy programs put on by the Federal Bar Association and to seek out opportunities to get their feet wet on the motion calendar.
What is the best advice you have ever received? You only have one reputation, and no single issue, case, or client is more important than protecting it.
Where do you see yourself in five years? In five years, I hope to continue to hone my litigation skills, to cultivate my own book of business and to be present in my kids’ educational and extracurricular pursuits.
What was your first job? I “taught” art lessons to preschool-aged kids at a place creatively named Art Is Fun, coached swimming and babysat.
What is your favorite Rhode Island food or drink? Whaler’s.
What led you to pursuing a career in your current industry? I always knew I wanted to be a litigator. I don’t think I am cut out for any other job.