Member Spotlight

Maria Fehretdinov

Where do you work?

Stearns Weaver Miller

What was your most rewarding professional achievement? 

One of my most rewarding professional experiences was arguing and prevailing before the Third DCA on an important and novel issue of law that would later go to the Florida Supreme Court. It demonstrated to me how the work I was doing was directly shaping the fundamental rights of not just my clients but all of those after me. So, it’s important to choose one’s cases wisely and make prudent and responsible legal arguments.  I have also really enjoyed working with some of the best and most talented legal minds in the country throughout my career in DC, New York, and Florida, which allowed me to see firsthand what distinguishes individuals at the top of their legal profession.

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

Embrace being female in a male-dominated field and use that difference to your advantage.  Know that you bring a diverse perspective, a relatable persona to the jury, and a client contact who listens and appreciates the goals of her clients. There is an excellent support network of dedicated and talented attorneys that you can tap into, so don’t be afraid to reach out, as well as mentor others who need your help. Hard work and perseverance are the key to success for women in law.

What does your pro bono practice look like?

There are many important causes that need our pro bono help, but the ones I gravitate to the most are the ones devoted to helping young children in need and working with organizations like Voices for Children to provide guardian ad litem legal help to our future generations. The Federal Bar also publishes case opportunities on a consistent basis that offers young attorneys an opportunity to get in-court experience and trial work. I started my practice using those opportunities as an excellent resource to get that critical hands-on experience.