Natalina DePina-Daniel

Associate – McGuireWoods

 

Description of field of expertise

Natalina “Nat” DePina’ focuses her practice on commercial litigation with an emphasis on tort litigation, product and consumer litigation and international arbitration. She has extensive experience serving as national coordinating counsel for a premier transportation company handling a variety of complex tort matters. Nat also represents clients in employment litigation involving internal investigations, allegations of misconduct, retaliation, discrimination and harassment. She also advises and represents a broad range of financial institutions, retailers and other organizations in individual and class actions in both state and federal courts.

 

What advice would you offer to new attorneys interested in your field?

Commercial litigation is a broad field with endless opportunities for challenging and interesting work. Regardless of what specific area of law you choose within this field, accept that you will make mistakes and learn from each one. Be receptive to feedback and ask for help, but do not wait until you are overwhelmed to do so. The more prepared you are, the more empowered you will be to think strategically and critically to solve complex problems. One of the most valuable advices I received as a junior associate is to recognize the power of meaningful mentorships at the outset. Also, treat the partners and senior associates you work with as clients – try to become invaluable to them and they will likely become your sponsors. Finally, commercial litigation is a very difficult field – take care of and prioritize your physical and mental health.