Member Spotlight

Rochelle N. Wimbush

Where do you work?

I am a partner at Ver Ploeg & Marino, P.A.

What type of legal work do you do? 

My firm's practice is focused exclusively on insurance coverage disputes and bad faith litigation. We sue insurance companies, and sometimes other insurance professionals such as agents and brokers, on behalf of policyholders and injured parties, when those insurance professionals delay, deny, or dispute valid insurance claims or otherwise fail to uphold their fiduciary obligations.

When and why did you join MDFAWL?

I joined MDFAWL over a decade ago as a much younger attorney who was trying to figure out how to "network." I was really bad at it. I was drawn to MDFAWL because I figured it would be less intimidating for me to network with a bunch of other women. I remained a member because of MDFAWL's incredible programming and community. MDFAWL not only provides the opportunity to connect with inspiring women (and allies), but it also empowers women by tackling head-on the issues that women continue to face in the legal profession, including the lack of promotion and advancement of women (particularly in private practice) and finding balance. MDFAWL is a wonderful organization that provides important resources, events, and opportunities for the advancement of women within the legal profession. I am so glad that I joined this inspiring community!

What was your most rewarding professional achievement? 

I recently served a term as the President of the Miami-Dade Trial Lawyers Association (MDTLA). Justice Peggy Quince swore me in, and Mayor Daniella Levine Cava delivered the keynote address. It was both a humbling and exhilarating experience to be honored by these two remarkable women. My year of service at the helm of the MDTLA was the culmination of many years of service on the board, but it very likely would not have come to fruition without the encouragement and support of Shannon del Prado, another former President of the MDTLA. And my year of service would not have been the success that it was without the tireless work of another powerhouse on my executive board, Amanda Demanda. These women not only inspire me but also remind me of how important it is to support and uplift other women when given the opportunity to do so. Being in a position of leadership brings with it opportunities to establish meaningful connections with fellow attorneys, judges, and community leaders, but it also creates opportunities for mentorship and collaboration. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to serve the MDTLA and look forward to perhaps joining  MDFAWL leadership one day.

What advice do you have for women in the legal profession?

I am a big proponent of mentorship. Given the broad range of challenges that women face in the legal profession, my advice for young attorneys is to seek out mentors or allies who can champion their growth, advocate for their advancement, and share strategies and other resources for success. Sometimes women need a little inspiration or an extra push to ask for high-profile cases, pursue leadership opportunities, or demand equitable pay. Finding a mentor who can help provide that motivation or simply offer guidance can be an invaluable component of our personal and professional growth. For more experienced attorneys, especially those who have benefited from a mentorship relationship, my advice would be to "pay it forward" by taking the time to mentor the next generation of women lawyers. One way to find a mentor or mentee is to be intentional about networking. Join organizations for women lawyers, like MDFAWL, and get involved, attend events, and actively cultivate relationships.