By: Kayla H.

It's been one year since my graduation ceremony, where I walked across the stage and emerged into the bustling world, more specifically, in downtown Boston. Unsure about my career path but with a deep-rooted inclination toward the legal field, I had a few acceptances and scholarships in hand. Still, I yearned to gain a true understanding of life as a lawyer before committing to the arduous journey of law school.

Two weeks after my graduation, I packed up my apartment and embarked on a 7-hour flight back to Orange County, CA. Within a month, I found myself beginning my journey at PWGGC. I had prior experience with law firms – during high school, I interned at the Veterans Legal Institute in Santa Ana, a non-profit organization aiding veterans who couldn't afford legal services. I even received awards from the Senate and Congress for my contributions there. My college years saw me working at a firm specializing in elder law and will writing.

However, one area of law that had eluded me, as it fell outside the scope of VLI, was family law. I yearned for a field where the focus was more on human emotion than contract drafting.

I vividly remember my first interview at PWGGC. I had interviewed at several other family law firms in the area, with one particularly memorable for the wrong reasons. This firm had windowless rooms, a boss who surveilled employees via live CCTV footage, and an obsession with “productivity” that bordered on the absurd. It was a far cry from what I encountered at PWGGC.

Walking into PWGGC, I was welcomed by fountains, friendly faces, and breathtaking ocean views. I couldn't help but think, "I have to ace this interview because this is the nicest law firm ever." Securing the job was undoubtedly one of the best moments of my life.

Contrary to my preconceived notions influenced by legal dramas like "Legally Blonde" or other lawyer-related shows, I found a family-like atmosphere at PWGGC. Every clerk, paralegal, attorney, and staff member genuinely cared about one another and were always willing to extend a helping hand. Whether it was through team-building activities or heartwarming birthday celebrations, everyone, regardless of their position, was valued and respected. I can honestly say that I felt a strong connection with everyone at the firm.

The hard work, dedication to clients' well-being, and passion for the profession were evident in every member of the team. It's worth noting that some individuals left for other firms but eventually returned, recognizing that there was no place quite like PWGGC. The environment exudes safety, respect, and camaraderie that I doubt I could find in another workplace.

When I expressed my interest in pursuing a legal career, the partners extended invitations to observe their hearings, accompany them to court, and entrusted me with legal research tasks. They readily welcomed me into their offices, providing guidance and answering my queries. No one was out of reach, and this sense of accessibility was truly exceptional.

Moreover, when I hinted at an interest in marketing or public relations, PWGGC allowed me to take on that role within the firm. They entrusted me with tasks such as revamping their website, managing social media accounts, and creating content like this very piece. The respect and support they extend to their employees are indicative of how well they treat their clients.

PWGGC is not just a workplace; it's a remarkable firm where every individual is valued and respected. As PWGGC continues to grow and rebrand, I eagerly anticipate your ability to access more content about the firm, its attorneys, paralegals, staff members, their career trajectories, advice, and much more.