Gary Lento, the newest partner at Radix Law, was interviewed by Attorney at Law Magazine. Former assistant district attorney, Gary Lento focuses on civil and business litigation.
AALM How did you start your career as a lawyer?
GL My personality has always been competitive and I chose a career in law to match my style. My career began as an assistant district prosecutor in Wisconsin. I was able to enter the courtroom very quickly because of this great experience.
AALM What has changed in your career since you graduated law school?
GL I never imagined that my legal career would lead me to California, where I became a partner at a large law firm or Arizona, where I worked as a special litigation counsel for the Arizona Attorney General’s office. These positions have brought me to many parts of the United States and abroad, including London, Sweden and Copenhagen.
AALM Which case has been the most difficult for you, and what obstacles did you face during the proceedings?
GL I can think of two cases. I was one the attorneys who represented a family of a murdered mother and daughter by Carey Stayner, in what is now known as the Yosemite Murders. The tragedy of what occurred was heartbreaking, and I felt proud to help in any way I could. I also represented a husband who was accused of poisoning his wife with selenium. We were able, through our representation, to avoid criminal charges and allow our client to keep custody of his kids.
AALM What qualities do you think are necessary for a successful attorney? How can you cultivate these qualities in yourself personally?
GL One of the best qualities is a willingness and ability to work hard on a case. When the law and facts work in your favor, it doesn’t require much effort. When the issues are unclear, it takes a lot of resolve, persistence, and tenacity.
AALM What advice do you have for young law students and aspiring lawyers just beginning their career?
GL Recognize that hard work is required to be successful after law school. Learning does not stop with graduation. It just starts. As early as possible, try to experience as many areas of law as you can to learn more and determine how to spend your rest of the legal career. A broad experience and knowledge base is also beneficial.
AALM – What do you consider your greatest achievement or success so far in your legal career?
GL The “one” greatest achievement is not the only one. It has been an “achievement”, for me, to get to know my clients’ businesses and learn more about them so that I can help them grow. I admire and respect the entrepreneurial spirit of new businesses and I consider it an accomplishment to help them succeed.
AALM :How do you participate in your local community?
GL Not nearly as good as I would like to be. I’m new to Scottsdale, so am still learning about all the community has to offer. In the past, I was involved with the local legal bar associations and served as a board of directors for the Boys & Girls Clubs of California.
AALM What are your hobbies and interests outside of work that you enjoy? This will help maintain a good balance between your personal life and your professional one.
GL Maintaining a healthy work-life equilibrium has always been difficult. When my body allows, I enjoy going to the gym or running outside.
AALM : What is something about you that our readers might be surprised to find out?
GL I was a semi-professional football player for the Racine Raiders of Wisconsin. This is one of America’s oldest and most successful semi professional teams. We won two National Championships during my seven-year tenure. The aches and the pains are due to this!
The first time that Attorney at Law Magazine published the article Gary Lento – From Championships to Courtroom, it was on Attorney at Law Magazine .