Women In Law Virtual Roundtable Q&A with Leslie MacLean

Leslie MacLean joined Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel in 2001, became a partner in 2005 and has been the managing partner of our firm’s Dallas office since 2018. Before attending law school, Leslie worked in the Texas Legislature as a legislative assistant and as the committee clerk to the Texas Senate State Affairs Committee. She has taught continuing education courses for lawyers and paralegals and is a former associate editor of the Appellate Lawyer. Leslie is a member of the American Association for Justice, the Public Justice Foundation, the Texas State Bar Association, the Texas Trial Lawyers Association, where she served as a board member, and a member of the Dallas Trial Lawyers Association.

See what Leslie had to say during our Women’s History Month Women In Law Roundtable Q&A.

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?

Leslie MacLean: The legal profession has made significant progress toward gender equality, but there are still systemic challenges to address. Women make up almost 50 percent of law school graduates and are increasingly represented in law firms, corporate legal departments, and the judiciary, including judicial clerkships. However, we need to see more women in leadership roles and continue to improve pay equity and opportunities for advancement. Women remain underrepresented at the partner level in major law firms, and the gender pay gap continues to be an issue.

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

LM: I like people. I listen to them. I believe in and trust the people I work with and try to empower them to make the best decisions for the clients we represent.

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?

LM: Female attorneys often bring their lived experiences and a deeper understanding of the unique challenges women face in these cases. Those experiences can help clients feel more comfortable discussing sensitive issues that have had a devastating impact on their lives. I may get some pushback when I say this – but I think, on the whole, women are better listeners.

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

LM: The legal world is famous for its demanding work culture, but firms are recognizing the need for greater flexibility. Remote and hybrid work models, parental leave policies, and mentorship programs can help retain diverse talent. Also, advancements in technology and legal innovation are happening at such a rapid pace, it’s difficult to keep up.

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

LM: 

• We can “fix” almost every mistake if we know about it. Don’t be afraid to tell me you’ve made a mistake.
• The practice of law is what you do, not who you are.
• And as my very first legal boss (and good friend) used to say: “At the end of the day, no one can eat you or take away your birthday.”

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