Attorney at Law Magazine’s latest Rising Star spotlight sat down to talk with Josef B. Hess about his career. He is an associate at Rissman Jacksonville. Hess concentrates his practice in liability defense.
AALM When were you first aware that you wanted to be an attorney? What attracted you to this profession?
JBH I decided to become an attorney in order to help others. I have always felt that it was important to give something back to the community. As an attorney, making a difference in people’s lives when they are most in need is incredibly fulfilling.
AALM What is different about the practice of law compared to what you expected in law school?
JBH The classes in law school are centered around legal knowledge and principles. As an attorney, your clients will rarely ask you about the law. They’ll come to you for help with a specific problem. As attorneys, it is our duty to interpret the law in order to create a plan of action to achieve a positive outcome for our clients.
AALM What is one trait that senior partners have which you would like to pass on to the next generation? What traits are you bringing to the table as a younger lawyer that senior partners could adopt?
JBH Senior partners at Rissman are always available to answer questions and discuss strategy. I am thankful to have the opportunity to work with some brilliant attorneys such as Derek Bush, Richard Mangan and Katherine Gannon. They are all generous in their time and committed to mentoring future generations of attorneys. Mentorship was a key part of my career and I want to pass this knowledge on to the new generation. I believe that the new generation has a good work-life mindset, which is essential for any career.
AALM What is your favorite activity outside of work? Hobbies? Sports?
JBH I’ve been boating, paddling and fishing in my free time. Justice, my fiancée, surprised me with a fishing trip for my birthday. We caught a Blacktip Shark weighing 70 pounds and Redfish, which we had as dinner. Since then, Florida watersports have become my passion. No pun intended.
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