Member of the Month: Carol Joven, Counsel at Williams Law Group LLC
What led you to seek a career in law?
My father, who has been in law, politics, and business, told me that his law degree had helped hmm in each of those areas. I liked the idea of having that versatility.
You have been practicing now for over 25 years, how has the practice of law improved over time or what would you like to see the bar work on?
Electronic filing and the ability to work remotely has allowed more flexibility. I remember years ago when we had to rush to the courthouse (or the State House) to make a filing deadline.
You are one of the few active appellate practitioners in the Indianapolis area. What do you like about appellate practice? Can you share any advice for someone who is either new to writing appellate briefs or is going to be presenting an oral argument?
I enjoy the focus on legal analysis of writing.
For anyone who has an appellate oral argument scheduled and especially if it's a lawyer's first appellate argument, I would recommend contacting the Indiana Appellate Institute. The IAI is run by the Indy Bar's Appellate Practice Section and provides moot arguments with experienced attorneys as volunteer judges.
What is your favorite thing about being a lawyer?
One of the best things about being a lawyer is the satisfaction of helping a client to obtain justice.
You are active in many bar associations, including the IndyBar- Women and the Law Division. What do you find beneficial from your membership in these associations, particularly the WLD?
Being involved in the bar association and the WLD has benefited me in multiple ways, including providing me with networking and leadership opportunities. It’s also just fun to get to know other lawyers.
This year’s theme, is “Be your Best Advocate!”. As an experienced litigator, what do you think newer female attorneys can do to live out this motto?
Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want, whether it’s a raise, more responsibility, or a new job. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help. I’ve found that most people are happy to help when asked.
What do you like to do outside of practicing law? Do you have any fun hobbies or past times?
I mostly enjoy spending time with family and friends—traveling, attending sporting events or shows, and playing cards/board games. I also like to read and walk our dog.
With our three kids in college now, I’ll spend less time going to their sports and other events, but our two boys are on the track team at Wabash. We will definitely be visiting both Wabash and Purdue.
What's a fun fact about you?
I come from a family of lawyers: my grandfather, father, sister, brother, husband, and two brothers-in-law. And our oldest son is about to apply to law school.
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