Get to know Heather Heberlein
Heather Heberlein joined Porter Wright's Cleveland office as a senior associate in August 2020. She focuses her practice on creditors' rights and bankruptcy, working alongside clients to resolve even the most complex legal matters. In this Q&A, Heather shares what inspired her legal practice and zeal for guiding businesses through tough times.
Describe a pivotal moment that influenced your career path.
I was graduating law school in 2008—the country’s economy was in the middle of collapse and jobs were hard to come by. I had completed a summer clerkship at a regional firm after my second year in law school and was working at the firm during my third year. I decided to take a Business Bankruptcy Course (given the situation with the economy, that seemed like a logical choice). To my surprise, one of the firm’s equity partners was teaching the class as an adjunct professor. I ended up with the high A in the class and solidified a job offer.
What was the single most important thing that made you want to focus in your practice area?
I started my career as a debtor-side Chapter 11 lawyer. When I came out of law school, there was a ton of work in the area as many businesses were forced to restructure or consider closing their doors and laying off employees. Working to try to turn a company around and save jobs through creative solutions with secured lenders and other constituents was challenging and fulfilling.
What excites you about your new role with Porter Wright?
I am excited for the expanded platform available at Porter Wright. Its footprint is much larger than any other firm I have worked for, and I am excited about what that means for my clients and potential new clients. I am also excited about the possibility of getting to work on complex matters for the firm’s sophisticated existing clients.
Who are you outside of work?
Outside of work, I am a mother to four children and a rescue dog, an avid sports fan who loves Cleveland’s sports teams, and someone who loves finding new things to do in Cleveland (even though I’m Cleveland born and raised).
