Recently, we had the opportunity to sit down and chat with WLD member Rebecca McClain. Rebecca is a staff attorney at the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. We are excited to honor Rebecca and get to know her a little better!
Tell us about your practice.
I’m a Staff Attorney for the Department of Natural Resources. I mainly represent the Divisions of Water, Historic Preservation & Archaeology, and Fish & Wildlife in administrative proceedings. This ranges from permits and violations to citizens petitions. My work also includes assisting the Office of the Attorney General on judicial review and appeals, and defending DNR in civil litigation. I frequently provide legal assistance in developing rules and statutes for the divisions. It is also a great privilege to sit as the proxy for the Director on the Indiana Native American and Indian Affairs Commission.
Why did you decide to become an attorney?
I decided to go to law school because I wanted to be armed with enough knowledge to do whatever I wanted in life! I had a high school art teacher tell me I should be a lawyer and work in trademarks. So at the time I started law school, I wanted to pursue intellectual property and corporate law so that I could work for a firm or start my own business someday. I was fortunate to meet people and have experiences in law school that expanded my understanding of social, economic, and environmental issues, which led me to where I am today.
What do you like most about serving as an attorney for the Department of Natural Resources?
I enjoy most working with intelligent and compassionate people at the DNR. Not only are they biologists, engineers, and archaeologists, but they are also foodies and talented artists. I feel a sense of community in appreciating our outdoor spaces and natural resources. I love learning about the State Parks and conservation areas that cover the State of Indiana! There is so much I never learned growing up that I hope the agency is able to continue inspiring new generations.
What are some unique benefits and challenges in your practice?
I’m really lucky that I spend time in the field learning a lot about my cases. DNR cases can be complex with dams, floodways, lakes, hunting, biology, archaeology, etc. but I enjoy learning something new every day. The main challenge would be providing the best customer service experience because I work with several divisions and public and private concerns from all angles. I want to help DNR and other interested parties achieve the best possible outcome, which can be really challenging at times!
What advice would you give to other female attorneys working in government or public interest roles?
Learn from your peers, especially your female colleagues. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Seek feedback from trusted sources. If there’s a position you want or an agency you think would be a good fit, reach out to the attorneys that work there and show a real interest in their work. Government and public interest attorneys are vital to the public and instrumental in instituting change.
What are some local spots you recommend others check out?
Fountain Square is probably my favorite area for hanging out on the weekends with friends. There are so many good shows at the HiFi and White Rabbit and the variety of food and drinks is great when you’re in the mood to do some walking around. But Garfield Park has my heart for arts and community! The park, art center, summer Saturday farmer’s market, great people, and overall historic charm are just some of the reasons I love living there.
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