Lauren Theunissen

My career in law began when I got a job as a receptionist at a small law firm in New York.  At first, it was just a job to me, but after being immersed in the practice and culture it became clear that this is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.  Witnessing everyone at the firm come together with the common goal of securing our clients the best case outcomes gave me the motivation to be the best paralegal I could be for my clients and colleagues. I’ve only ever had jobs in personal injury law, and after seeing the way I can improve someone’s life just by simply showing up to work every day, it’s the only job I ever want to do.

I make it my goal to always speak in terms that are accessible and concise, so I don’t overwhelm my clients during an already stressful time.  Many clients of course have no experience in the legal world until they get injured and have to file a claim.  Speaking in terms that are easy to understand creates a friendly rapport and eases anxieties related to the claims process.

Career highlight:

One highlight was when I assisted on a case where we secured a $9million verdict for a woman that was struck by a city bus in NYC. It was so rewarding knowing that the long nights and hard work all paid off in the end.

In my own time:

I love to play video games, do puzzles, take my dog out to the park and lift the heaviest weights I can find!

Qualifications and accreditations:

• Paralegal certification under the American Bar Association.