Meet Caren, Managing Attorney for California and Director of Marketing and Compliance for the Firm.
We are committed to Inclusion, Diversity, Equality and Access. Which aspect of our purpose do you most identify with?
It’s difficult to choose just one as I believe they are all intertwined. When I first started practicing law in this field, I was one of only a handful of women attorneys. There were fewer opportunities for inclusion and equality back in the 1980’s. Fortunately, in the 2020’s the landscape has changed dramatically, not just for women, but for all types of diversity. I strongly believe that when we provide access to people from diverse backgrounds and beliefs, we are better able to serve our clients and community. Each of us brings a little something different to the table, when we’re able to include and truly listen to those differences, the results can only be stronger.
How would you describe your team?
I consider all of IDEA to be my team. They are intelligent, hardworking, funny, strong individuals willing to go the extra mile to ensure our clients are satisfied with our representation.
Who inspired you to pursue the career you have today?
My parents and my grandmother were in many ways my inspiration. I was always told that I could do anything growing up. When I decided to go to law school I was fully supported by my family. I also had many great partners along the way during my career that helped me develop my approach to the practice of law.
Who motivates you?
In addition to the IDEA team that motivates me every day to continue to build and improve our Firm, my family motivates me. My husband, 3 kids and now 7 grandkids are my biggest motivation.
What’s the best advice you can give to someone who just started their career in this industry?
My best piece of advice would be to never forget the human connection. We work in an industry where are clients are all over the country and we use technology as our primary method of communication. It’s important to connect with your teammates and your clients, be honest, work hard, build and protect your reputation.
What is your favorite productivity hack?
Write it down, prioritize, and do the hard stuff first.
In terms of successes, which accomplishments are you most proud of?
Besides being a mom and grandma, I’m very proud that I was the first female president of USFN, and have been honored by several industry organizations. I’m proud that I have faced many adversities in my career and that I have come through them, not unscathed, but with my reputation maintained.
What are the toughest challenges you’ve had at work?
Maintaining a positive attitude when faced with outside adversity.
Who are some of your biggest inspirations within the company?
The woman partners of the Firm, Jennifer Rogers & Danette Baldacci, are true inspirations to me. I’ve had the pleasure of working with them for many years. To see their development and this beautiful firm they have created inspires me to work hard and be a contributor every day.
How have you grown professionally while on our team?
I hope that I grow every day professionally. Even after over 40 years, you learn new things daily. The pillars on which this Firm is based allows for that continued growth as we learn from each other.
What’s your secret talent no one knows about?
I love to cook and bake, but most people know about my fudge.
What is something about you that most people don’t know.
I have become a workout fanatic and am working on getting my certification for teaching gym class.
Our Team: Caren Castle
