We’re looking forward to introducing you to Mariza Lockhart . Check out our conversation below.
Mariza, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Some may think that intelligence is the most important part of being an attorney but I would disagree. While intelligence and energy are certainly important, to me integrity is paramount. An attorney with no integrity is a danger to the foundation of justice. As an attorney, I consider myself an agent of justice and am often the only champion my clients have. Without integrity my clients would not only lose faith in me, they would lose faith in the entire system.
I recall being taught very early in law school that our reputations were irreplaceable and mainstream scandals in the last few years have taught me how true this is. I may not be the smartest attorney in the world and I may not always have the most energy but I have always taken pride in the fact that my clients trust me and my ability to help them with their problems.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I began Lockhart Legal in 2017 with the goal of helping people resolves their disputes. Since I can remember my mom owned and managed her own rental properties. From her I learned that there will always be a need for real estate related services because people are always going to own and/or rent property.
In law school I volunteered with a free legal clinic. The experience taught me the importance of making a client feel heard. I understood there was a need for accessible attorneys who can help people avoid common legal pitfalls and represent them in court when a resolution cannot be reached.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
Soon after being sworn in as an attorney I began representing a client in a lawsuit against her mortgage lender, a major bank, for unfair business practices. I had done well in law school and passed the bar on the first try but nothing had really prepared me for handling actual clients and cases. Fortunately for me this first client was my mom who was somehow confident that I could handle her case and get a good result. I was afraid the other side would sense my fear and my inexperience would prejudice my client. It took some time but eventually my compelling arguments led to a very fair and reasonable settlement offer which was accepted. Getting a good result on a case of this caliber so early in my career gave me confidence and taught me that a lack of experience did not mean I couldn’t still get justice for my clients. The case may have been tough but I am grateful for the experience and the lasting impact it had on me.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
On at least one occasion I have questioned my career choice to become an attorney run my own law firm. The hours can be grueling, the rules annoying, and while I can choose my clients I cannot choose the opposing side or the opposing counsel. Even nice clients can be unappreciative and hard work can often go ignored. Each time I have found myself questioning my choices, I am always able to remind myself why I first started down this path. Being an attorney is not easy but it is rewarding and challenging and it allows me to continue to learn and better myself each day.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief you used to hold tightly but now think was naive or wrong?
I used to think that a legal system and a justice system were the same thing. Years as a lawyer has taught me that these words are often interchanged in every day conversation but in reality they are very different. I believe that our legal system has good intentions but is often unjust and it is ultimately up to attorneys to make arguments that can sway opinions and make precedence.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I bake. Baking is by no means stress free but I find following strict instructions and procedures peaceful and oddly fun. Baking also allows me to create something that is visually pleasing, smells delicious and it tasty as well.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lockhartlegalfirm.com
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariza-lockhart-esq/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lockhartlegalfirm
