Q&A with Ana Crawford
Ana is in Porter Wright’s Litigation Department concentrating her practice in complex commercial litigation. Ana also brings a background in politics and is an active member of the firm’s Government and Regulatory Affairs group.
What is the best advice youā€™ve received about how to be a successful attorney?
The best advice I’ve received on how to be a successful attorney is to first and foremost listen to the goals of our clients. It is often challenging for attorneys to go behind what we think is the best outcome in a given scenario because, after all, we navigate the legal field every day. Instead, if we prioritize the goals of our clients, we are able to reach an agreeable outcome and leave our clients as more satisfied. For example, sometimes clients will prioritize the quick resolution over the monetary value of a case, and in that scenario, it is important to know that upfront so that a settlement can be pursued at the outset.
What was the single most important thing that made you want to focus your practice in litigation?
If I had to name one thing that led me to litigation, it would be my trial practice class during law school. It was far and away my favorite class and made me realize how much I enjoyed the strategy and art of being in a courtroom. The class helped me to incorporate all of what I had learned in other classes and put that knowledge to use while giving me a preview of what my career could be like after law school.
Name an attorney you admire and tell us why.
I admire Candi Taggart for her constant professionalism. I work with Candi often, and even in situations where opposing counsel has been less than civil, Candi consistently rises above and proceeds with integrity.I also admire my dad, who is a solo practitioner. Over the years, he has built a successful law practice in a niche area. On any given day he balances being an attorney with HR, IT, marketing and all the other concerns that come along with being a small business owner. His breadth of knowledge in all of these areas consistently impresses me.Last but certainly not least, I admire my husband. He is the most diligent worker I know who is always trying to do the best for his clients and is extremely passionate about the work he does.
If you had a theme song, what would it be?
Some may call it stubbornness and others may call it persistence, but “I Won’t Back Down” by Tom Petty is probably the most fitting theme song for me.
How has mentorship made a difference in your professional and personal life?
Most of my mentors are also attorneys within Porter Wright, and I talk to them often about professional and personal issues. As a newer attorney, I most often seek advice when facing novel legal issues or when I am before a new judge. My mentors’ experiences and insights can help me feel better prepared and more knowledgeable, which ultimately leads to better results for clients.
