Laura Davis Jones knew early on she wanted to be a lawyer. Encouraged by her father, she pursued a legal career at a time when women were rare in courtrooms.
“While in the 1980s, trial lawyers were predominantly male, my parents did not see any reason why a woman could not be a successful attorney,” Jones says. “The reality was some clients, and many lawyers, did see a distinction, but I agreed — and still agree — that gender has no bearing on a person’s ability to be an excellent lawyer.”
Now a managing and named partner at Pachulski Stang Ziehl & Jones LLP, Jones is widely recognized for her work in business bankruptcy law. Her clerkship with U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Helen Balick and early role representing Continental Airlines in its restructuring were turning points. “Both experiences forced me to make decisions and own them,” she says.
Over the years, she’s earned numerous honors, including induction into the Turnaround Management Association Hall of Fame and recognition as a Chambers USA “Star Individual.” She also received the Tina Brozman Mentoring Award for her efforts to support younger professionals.
“When I was awarded the Tina Brozman Mentoring Award, I felt I had made a difference,” she says. “I was honored to be recognized on the national stage of the restructuring industry.”
Jones believes the legal profession must evolve. “The industry needs to recognize that people are individuals,” she says. “Covid taught us people can perform excellent work remotely. We need to open the door to opportunities.”
Her advice for young attorneys: “Ignore the noise and keep moving forward. Take advantage of opportunities, work hard and your success will come.”
Her goal is simple: “Seek out opportunities, take ownership and succeed. It will take years, but it will come.”
