Attorney At Law Magazine sat with Lyudmyla Kolyesnik and Christopher J. Greene of Purcell Flanagan Hay & Greene in order to discuss their career and outlook on the law.
Lyudmyla Kolyesnik
Lyudmyla Kolesnik is an Associate. She concentrates her practice in trust and estate litigation as well as complex business disputes and construction-related conflicts. She brings to her cases a broad perspective, based on her undergraduate degree in Corporate Finance.
AALM Why did you get into litigation? You may have considered other types of law. What is it that you like about being a lawyer? What are your frustrations?
LK Litigation has captured my attention due to its dynamic and exciting nature, as well as the chance to represent clients in court. Although I’ve considered other legal options, the combination of strategy, argumentation, and problem-solving in litigation keeps me interested. While I enjoy the excitement of making a strong case, the inefficiency and lengthy procedures can be frustrating. The intellectual challenge of being a lawyer is a rewarding career.
AALM Do you believe that male litigators still dominate certain practices, such as litigation? If so, what are the challenges you face and how have you overcome them?
While progress has been made in some legal areas, there are still gender imbalances. This is a reality I have experienced as a female lawyer. In the past, women may have been steered towards different legal specialties due to biases, while litigation’s confrontational style might be a deterrent for others. Personal, I overcome these obstacles by forming supportive networks, seeking mentoring from women working in the field and championing initiatives for diversity and inclusion. By pursuing these initiatives, I hope to reduce barriers and make the profession of law more equal for everyone.
AALM What traits have you identified in your work with senior lawyers that you would like to pass on to the next generation?
LK : I admire senior partners for their commitment to mentoring. Their experience and guidance have been invaluable in my development as a lawyer. I want to share this commitment to mentoring with the next generation. By fostering a culture that encourages knowledge sharing and support, I hope to ensure that young lawyers are able to benefit from the wisdom their peers have to offer as they begin their legal career.
Christopher J. Greene
Christopher J. Greene, a shareholder at the firm, focuses on commercial litigation, trusts and estates disputes, and probate. He is currently co-chairman of the Jacksonville Bar Association’s section on probate and trust disputes.
AALM Do you have a case that has been a pivotal moment in your career so far? A case that refocused your practice?
CG I dealt with a case that involved the interpretation and enforcement of a settlement agreement in the context of a trust dispute. The subject matter and lawyers were both very interesting to me. I was compelled to make trust and estate litigation a major part of my practice.
AALM Which experience in courtroom taught you most about being an effective litigator?
CG : Be prepared for the unexpected. As we prepare for trials, we try to know the opposing side’s case as well as the other party. This helps us prepare better evidence and strategies, and reduces the possibility of a surprise.
AALM Which trait do you think most distinguishes a good or average litigator from a truly exceptional one?
CG Very Simple. Extremely hardwork. Focus on details and an ethical approach at all times. Finally, it is important to always be civil to opposing counsels and parties. This helps avoid unnecessary conflicts.
The article Two Generations Of Litigators first appeared on Attorney at Law Magazine.