Member Spotlight

Jerry D. Hamilton

Where do you work?

Hamilton, Miller & Birthisel, LLP

What type of legal work do you do?

I am a truly happy civil defense trial lawyer who has been fortunate to handle cases throughout the country.  From maritime cases to product liability, negligent security, personal injuries, trucking cases, and mass torts, I have had the pleasure and opportunity to represent clients seeking truth and justice. What a privilege it is to speak for and represent others in court and to be involved in the greatest legal system in the world. 

When and why did you join MDFAWL?

Women have always been an integral part of our firm. They are part of our identity, our culture, and our brand, and they play a critical role in the service we provide to our clients. So my association with MDFAWL is a natural fit. I am proud to support the organization and especially proud to have been selected as a winner of the 2024 Law Firm Champion of Women Award. I was honored to be the recipient of the 2024 GOOD Guy (Guys Overcoming Obstacles to Diversity) Award and to be the recipient of the Ted Klein Award for constantly being a proponent for advancing women’s issues in the profession.  I love MDFAWL and its mission.

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

Find a firm where the partners reflect who you are or where you want to go.  A firm that has flexibility with whatever path you choose. Flexibility if you choose to have a family. Flexibility if you choose to business develop.  Flexibility if you want to try cases.  Most of all, find a firm that gives you a path and the opportunity for a seat at the table and be heard. My other named partner for 28 years, Jennifer Miller, has walked in your shoes, being a woman in this challenging and stressful profession. Having three children and a successful practice, she understands the challenges that our talented women lawyers face.  It is why we have been able to mentor and cultivate what I believe are some of the most gifted and successful women lawyers in the profession.  Just take a look at our website for multiple examples.  Women who excel not only in their profession, but in the community, all while maintaining a work-life balance, which is a herculean task for some but encouraged and developed by our firm.  Find the environment, find the people—that’s the best advice I can give.  

When you have 30 minutes of free time, how do you use it?

In silence and gratitude.