Women To Watch: Kayla Quintana

Partner, Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP

Practice area

Products Liability - Trial Attorney

What drew you to this practice area?   

What drew me to products liability was the opportunity to do what I love most: try cases. I began my career as a Public Defender, where I developed a passion for courtroom advocacy and learned firsthand that I am a trial lawyer at heart. When I transitioned to civil practice, I quickly realized that many cases resolve before reaching a jury. Products liability, however, remains one of the few areas where cases are more likely to be litigated through trial, providing meaningful opportunities to advocate in the courtroom. Beyond the trial work, I am genuinely fascinated by the complexity of products liability cases, from the scientific and technical issues involved to working with industry experts. It is a practice area that challenges me intellectually while allowing me to pursue my passion for advocacy.

A case, matter, or project you're especially proud of.  

One accomplishment I am particularly proud of is helping secure a full defense verdict for my client in my first products liability trial in 2024. I am also proud that, by the end of 2025, I had the opportunity to examine my first witnesses at trial on behalf of Johnson & Johnson.

Who has been a mentor or role model in your career, and what did you learn from them?  

Two individuals have had a profound impact on my professional development. One of my earliest role models was Judge Lisa Walsh. As an Assistant Public Defender, she was among the first judges before whom I tried cases, and her guidance, mentorship, and encouragement played a pivotal role in shaping me into the trial lawyer I am today. Throughout the various stages of my career, she has remained a trusted source of wisdom and support.

I am also deeply grateful to Mike Brown, the leader of my current team, whose mentorship has been instrumental in my growth as a lawyer. He has consistently invested in my development, challenged me to take on new opportunities, and demonstrated confidence in my abilities. Much of what I have accomplished in my career at Nelson Mullins is a direct result of his support, advocacy, and willingness to provide opportunities that have allowed me to continue growing as a trial attorney.

What does being part of this community of women lawyers mean to you?   

MDFAWL has provided me with a network of women who understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with practicing law. It has connected me with mentors, colleagues, and friends who have celebrated my successes, offered perspective during difficult moments, and inspired me to continue growing both professionally and personally.

What I value most about this community is its commitment to lifting up the next generation of women lawyers. The support I have received has played a meaningful role in my development as a trial lawyer, and I am grateful for the opportunity to now give back by mentoring and supporting others. Being part of MDFAWL reminds me that while individual achievements are important, they are made possible by a community that believes in and invests in one another.

One word your colleagues would use to describe you.

Driven

What's something people are surprised to learn about you?   

I did not grow up in South Florida, although I have lived here for a long time now. I grew up in Texas, moved to Florida to play volleyball at UCF, and then moved to Miami to go to law school at UM. I've been in Miami ever since, and now I can't imagine leaving.

A quote or motto you live by.  

If you don't ask, the answer is always no. If you do ask, the worst someone can say is no, but there's always a chance they'll say yes.