We had the good fortune of connecting with Attorney Heather Gomez and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Attorney Heather, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Following graduation from the University of Miami School of Law, laboring long hours for someone else’s law firm wouldn’t serve my schedule or purpose.
Prior to becoming an attorney, my career as a neurogenic speech pathologist led me to owning my therapy company, which continues to operate. Running that business, being a mother and working for a large law firm didn’t seem possible. I knew my days required flexibility, so I chose to start my own law firm the day after I was barred in Florida.
Helping others, whether medically or legally, has always been my priority. When starting my firm, I knew that not only did I want to advocate for those who needed legal assistance, but I wanted my law firm to contribute to the well-being of others in our community. Owning your own business allows you to create those opportunities and choose which organizations you wish to help.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
The Brand:
Gomez Law and Attorney Heather offer a unique perspective to personal injury law that sets this law firm apart from other Florida injury attorneys. Attorney Heather’s unique medical background ensures clients are informed, not only on their legal process, but educated on their injuries they sustain through someone else’s negligence. Clients receive specific information on how their injuries can affect their future and counseling to help them decide their best course of action for recovery.
Clients and potential clients who are mindful of our community admire that Gomez Law uses some of our earnings to enhance others who are underrepresented and underprivileged in our community. We are thrilled to be able to impact the lives of others who need our help. When we settle a client’s case, they can feel good knowing that we set aside a portion that is contributing back to helping others, rather than solely in an attorney’s pocket.
The Challenges:
After passing the Florida Bar, I had no legal experience. Law school teaches you about the law, but minimal time is spent on practicing the law. Opening a law firm without practice knowledge was my greatest challenge. However, I aligned myself with the best personal injury attorneys around the country who were genuinely passionate about teaching me and encouraged my firm’s growth.
There are always obstacles. Finding mentors, solutions and assistance is paramount for success.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Miami is a total vibe. The quantity of “things to do” is endless.
When people come to town, I love for them to experience a wide variety of what the Magic City offers. Perhaps, I would take them to the most real areas of Miami so they can see some of Miami’s foundation. Walking through Little Havana, visitors grasp the level of Cuban pride this town exudes. Colombian and Venezuelan mom n pop cafes deliver the best South American cuisine. For an amazing Medellin-style calentado, empeñada and pan de bono, you must hit Mekatos Bakery. Doggi’s Arepa Bar will have you craving their carne mechada y queso arepa and cachpas for weeks!
Shopping and strolling are best at Miami’s Design District, Brickell City Center, Vizcaya, and Fairchild Gardens.
My most enjoyable nightlife is spent on the rooftop bars. Who doesn’t love city lights and take-your-breath-away views of Miami? Rosa Sky, Sugar and Level 6 offer an unforgettable experience.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
A huge shoutout to my parents who have always encouraged higher education, supported my bold risks in being an entrepreneur, and taught me through action how to be a philanthropist.
I became a young single mother at twenty-one. Subsequently, I dropped out of college. If not for my family’s extreme disgust and rejection towards my decision, I may not have chosen to return to university life shortly after my son was born. Although I do not believe every successful person needs to obtain higher education, it was imperative for my visions.
Raising my first son on my own, my parents worried about the instability and lack of accessible healthcare benefits that a typical “9-5” job affords. However, they supported my ideas and closed their eyes as I opened my first company in my twenties. Perhaps they were not completely aligned with my choice, but they were always my biggest cheerleaders. With their encouragement, belief in me and love, I have always been determined to succeed and make them proud.
My parents have always supported their community. As a little girl, my mother showed me how to give back to those less fortunate than ourselves by donating time and necessities. Not only did she participate, but she organized many events and was the founder of such organizations. Her life-long involvement in charity work has inspired me to do the same.
Special gratitude goes to my boys who endured non-traditional holidays and sacrificed time for their mom to peruse her goals.
Lastly, a huge part of my successes has been contributed by my supportive friends and mentors. Surrounding yourself with immense support and inspiring ambitious individuals is the recipe for great achievements.
Website: https://www.attorneyheather.com
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