[as originally published on voyagela.com]
Thanks for sharing your story with us Naz. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I started Barouti Law Corporation almost eight years ago. Initially, I was terrified to start my own business. Typically, new attorneys work for someone else before venturing out on their own, but I wanted to start a practice that would change the industry. My specialty is Estate Planning, which is mostly a male-dominated field. While attorneys take an oath to protect their clients, I noticed that many women felt intimidated working with male attorneys in creating their estate plans. Either they couldn’t connect with their attorney or the attorney was being selected by their husbands. I knew that I needed to create a friendly, honest environment so that women felt comfortable getting the necessary legal documents prepared.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Having your own business is never a smooth road, but I’m not one to back down from a challenge. The ups and downs of being an entrepreneur are what make every morning exciting. One of the main struggles I experienced was getting clients to trust me because I am a young attorney. For some reason, many believe an older attorney is a better attorney, which is not always true. I’ve noticed that younger attorneys are more up to date on changes in the law. The number one advice I have for other women who are just starting their journey in their careers is to let your personality shine through. Don’t get caught up in your own “self-talk.” Being your authentic self can take you a long way in any business.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Barouti Law Corporation – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
My specialty is Estate Planning, which encompasses drafting Revocable Trusts, Wills, Power of Attorneys and Health Care Directives. I essentially ensure that you and your assets are protected if you were to pass away or become incapacitated. I pride myself for being able to explain the law in simple terms and creating an environment where clients feel at ease disclosing personal information about their lives. However, what I am most proud of is helping countless women navigate through the legal system during times of extreme stress. I want every woman to be educated about how to protect themselves legally. That is where the inspiration came to write my book: Love, Death & Money: A Woman’s Guide to Legally Protecting Yourself, which comes out the Fall of 2018.
Do you think there are structural or other barriers impeding the emergence of more female leaders?
As much as I find that the “me too” movement shed light on the injustices and abuses happening to women in this country, I also find that it closed a lot of doors and opportunities. I’ve spoken to countless business owners who are fearful about working with women as a result of potential lawsuits. This again creates a huge barrier for women. In regard to the legal industry, I find that estate planning has always been a conservative, male-dominated area of the law. I’m hoping with the publication of my book and my approach in helping clients, I can change that narrative.
