Women In Law Virtual Roundtable Q&A with Kimberly Rosales

Kimberly Rosales is an attorney at Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel in the firm’s Dallas office. Kimberly’s practice concentrates on asbestos litigation. She earned her bachelor’s degree cum laude at the University of North Texas, and her law degree at UNT Dallas College of Law. During her time in law school, she served as president of the Hispanic Law Students Association, was a member of the law review as well as the College of Law board of advocates. Kimberly was a recipient of both the William E. Collins clerkship at the Dallas City Attorney’s Office and the Dallas Hispanic Law Foundation scholarship in 2018. She was admitted to the State Bar of Texas in 2020. Kimberly is fluent in Spanish.

Read on to learn what Kimberly had to say during our Women’s History Month virtual round table.

Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel: Where do you think we are in terms of gender equality in the legal profession? How do you see the field growing and changing in the future, not just for women attorneys but all lawyers?

Kimberly Rosales: Gender equality in the legal profession has made significant strides. However, there is still work to be done, particularly increasing the number of women in leadership roles within law firms. Women are continuing to gain recognition as capable, competent leaders who can excel in all areas of law. The future looks promising, as more women continue to break barriers and gain visibility. I believe we will see the legal profession increasingly embrace diversity at all levels, gradually providing everyone equal opportunities to thrive. The shift toward equality is essential not only for the advancement of women but also for the enhancement of the entire profession.

WKPS: What personality characteristics or skills do you possess that you believe enabled your career to flourish?

KR: I believe my resilience, communication skills, and empathetic approach to problem-solving have played key roles in enabling my career to flourish. Resilience has helped me navigate the inevitable challenges that come with a legal career, while effective communication allows me to build strong relationships with clients and colleagues. My ability to empathize has been particularly crucial in understanding the human aspect of legal cases, allowing me to advocate for clients with integrity and passion. These traits have helped me not only succeed in my legal work but also foster an environment of collaboration and trust with my clients and colleagues.

WKPS: Many issues that our firm tackles – like helping talc-exposure victims and survivors of birth defects and sex abuse – have unique implications for women. How important is the legal field to ensuring fair treatment for women and protecting their rights? Why is it important to have female attorneys involved in this litigation?

KR: The legal field plays a key role in protecting women’s rights and ensuring fair treatment, including cases involving talc-exposure, birth defects, and sex abuse. Female attorneys can bring a deep understanding and empathy to cases that directly impact women. Their presence helps ensure these issues are handled with care and sensitivity, while also offering a voice that women can relate to. It also helps make sure that women’s rights are considered in shaping legal outcomes.

WKPS: Is there a practice area you focus on that particularly affects women? Why is it important to you? What positive impacts have you been able to make through your work?

KR: I work with women who developed mesothelioma, a terminal cancer, from asbestos exposure. It’s important to me to advocate for women who’ve been impacted by unsafe and negligent practices. These women deal with a serious diagnosis, various treatments, and an uphill battle of holding powerful corporations accountable, all while caring for their loved ones.

I provide legal assistance and emotional support while helping them pursue justice and accountability. The most rewarding part of my work is helping these women feel heard and supported through their toughest battles.

WKPS: What is the most interesting change you’ve seen in the legal field since starting your career?

KR: One of the changes I’ve noticed is the rise of technology in the legal field. Tools like AI and online services, like Zoom, have developed how we manage cases and communicate with clients, making things faster and more accessible.

WKPS: What is one piece of advice you’ve received that you would pass on to law students and lawyers? Women law students and lawyers?

KR: One of the most valuable pieces of advice I’ve received is the importance of owning up to your mistakes and seeking mentorship along the way. The legal profession can be challenging, and it’s inevitable to face setbacks, make errors, or encounter situations that push you outside of your comfort zone. However, it’s crucial to view these moments as opportunities for growth. Mistakes are a natural part of the learning process and offer lessons that help you improve as an attorney and as a person. Own up to your mistakes, fix them, and learn from them.

Additionally, finding good mentors who genuinely support and guide you is essential. Mentors provide invaluable insights, help you navigate complex situations, and can be a source of encouragement when things get tough. For women law students and lawyers, mentorship becomes even more important, as it offers not only professional guidance but also support in overcoming the unique challenges that women may face in the legal field. Surrounding yourself with mentors who believe in your potential can inspire confidence, help you stay grounded, and give you the tools needed to succeed.

Check out our Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel Virtual Roundtable Q&A: Women In Law for more interviews with our attorneys.