A friend from law school called me one day:
"Hey Grady, you speak Spanish. Want some immigration cases?"
That random call changed everything.
It was 2013, and I was in the second year of building my law firm.
At the time, I was setting up businesses and writing contracts.
I was networking in the Silicon Beach start-up scene.
These assignments were safe, predictable, and quickly being replaced by LegalZoom.
The idea of adding a new practice area was daunting, but exciting.
I was nervous at first, but I had something most lawyers didn't:
• 8 years of Spanish studies and language fluency;
• A year abroad in Madrid;
• Experience working with international students and clients;
•Law School Internships in immigration; and
• A Keen interest in foreign cultures.
So I said "yes!"
I bought an immigration book and taught myself the ropes.
I looked for an associate, and found the incomparable Anthony Mance.
We Started with simple marriage-based green cards.
Then came referrals.
Then speaking engagements.
Then corporate clients.
One case led to another.
Word spread.
My network grew.
My staff grew.
We now help Fortune 500 companies, funded startups, and mid-sized businesses obtain and keep the talent they need.
We've reunited couples separated by oceans, and helped clients of all ages gain U.S. Citizenship.
We enabled our clients to realize their American Dream.
And Anthony and I are still collaborating on immigration cases 11 years later.
The lesson?
Sometimes your biggest career pivot starts with a simple "yes."
Your past experiences - even ones that seem irrelevant - might be preparing you for an opportunity you don't see coming.
Stay curious.
Say "yes."
Always network.
Use your experience to build upon the opportunities that come your way.
And most of all, thank you Loyola Law School, Los Angeles Turf Club and Maneesh Sharma for that fateful call!
Follow for more insights on building a meaningful legal career.
To find out how we can help you achieve your American Dream of Legal Permanent Residency, and eventually U.S. citizenship, schedule a complimentary consultation with The Grady Firm’s attorneys by booking a call online, or calling +1 (949) 940-6725.
The Grady Firm has offices in Southern California, and its attorneys work remotely with clients from around the globe.
*This article is for informational purposes only, and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. This article does not make any guarantees as to the outcome of a particular case, as each case has its own set of circumstances and must be evaluated individually by and attorney and adjudicated by USCIS or the relevant consulate.
Comments