Jessica Reddick
When did you know that you were destined to be a lawyer?
I actually did not grow up wanting to be a lawyer. Both of my parents are entrepreneurs, so I actually thought I’d go to business school. It wasn’t until about a year prior to starting to law school that the idea of becoming a lawyer clicked with me. I had previously worked in finance and really disliked the environment, so I took a random leap of faith when a job opened up at a large law firm back in my hometown of Washington, D.C. Almost immediately after I started my work at the firm, I realized … “Wow, I think I have a legal mind and might really enjoy being an attorney.” Soon thereafter, I applied to law school.
What’s the first case you remember that solidified your desire to be an attorney?
It was the first time I completed a real estate deal on my own. There was something so satisfying about having the authority and knowledge to help someone actualize a dream (a first-time homebuyer purchasing their first property). My client cried tears of joy and gave me the biggest hug as we handed her the keys. THAT sealed the deal for me.
What’s your role or specialty within KMR?
I am founding partner and my expertise is in real estate, corporate and entertainment law. I work with homebuyers and investors to acquire and sell properties. My corporate clients range from individuals who run their own company to full service businesses. I guide my clients as they navigate the start-up process and later serve as counsel to negotiate, draft documents and managing all legal affairs for the business. My entertainment clients range from personal celebrity chefs, film writers and producers, to musicians and music producers.
What are some of the obstacles KMR has encountered as one of the few law firms owned by Black women in the city of Chicago?
I’d say the biggest obstacle for us is relationship building outside of our community and network. Most law firms in the ity (and worldwide) are owned by older, White males. We dedicate a lot of time to business development because it is important to us to expand our client base and work for a variety of clients. Otherwise, we love being one of the few black female owned law firms and feel it to be very empowering. It is my hope that our leap of faith into business ownership will inspire other bBack women to do the same.
In your opinion, what’s the biggest misconception about practicing law that people have?
The biggest misconception is definitely the belief that practicing law is like what you see in the movies or on TV. Unfortunately, the legal field is rarely that exciting and most time is spent researching, reading and writing. Lucky for me, I never wanted to be in a courtroom and really enjoy writing, negotiating and troubleshooting for others who are not equipped to problem solve on their own.
Tell us three factors that you believe make a great attorney?
Critical thinking (in the legal world we call that “issue spotting”). Trustworthiness & the ability to connect with your clients & make sure they are comfortable. Creativity in conflict resolution
Take your pick: Annalise Keating or Clair Huxtable? Why?
No question I’m picking Clair Huxtable. Clair was unlike anything we’ve ever seen before on TV. Clair was brilliant, quick-witted, no-nonsense, ambitious and successful but always maintained her morals and put her husband and family first.
Any favorite quotes or affirmations?
“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen” Hebrews 11:1
“Live in your vision, not in your circumstances” Chuck Pagano
Name a book that changed how you saw life and that you’d strongly recommend to others?
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
What’s something that people would be surprised to know about you?
I think many people who don’t know me think I’m introverted and serious, but really I am quite outspoken, silly and even a bit of a daredevil. I also won a national tennis championship when I was 16, which is another fun fact.
For more information on KMR Law Group, please visit www.kmrlawgroup.com.
Twitter: @KMRLawGroup
