Women To Watch: Rachel L. Kipnis

Senior Associate, Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider, P.A.

MDFAWL Committee Chair

Practice areas

Marital and Family Law

What drew you to this practice area?   

I was drawn to marital and family law because it sits at the intersection of sophisticated legal strategy and deeply personal decision-making. The work can involve complex financial issues, businesses, real estate, and significant assets, but at the center of every case is a person navigating a major transition in their life. I love being able to bring both strategy and humanity to that process.

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

I’m most proud of the matters where I’ve helped a client move from feeling overwhelmed by the process to feeling informed, confident, and in control of what comes next. In family law, a successful outcome is not always measured solely by what happens in the courtroom. It is often about protecting a client’s financial future, their relationship with their children, and their ability to begin the next chapter of their life on solid footing.

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

I’ve been fortunate to learn from several exceptional lawyers throughout my career, many of whom I currently work with. The lesson that has stayed with me most is that preparation creates confidence. The lawyers I admire most know their cases inside and out, but they also understand people. They listen carefully, anticipate what is coming next, and know when to be aggressive and when restraint is the more powerful strategy.

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

There is something incredibly powerful about women lawyers sharing knowledge, opening doors for one another, and celebrating each other’s success. I believe we can be ambitious, excellent at what we do, and generous with one another at the same time.

One word your colleagues would use to describe you.

Strategic.

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

I earned a college scholarship selling knives door to door.

A quote or motto you live by.  

Know your worth, then add tax.