Q: When did you know you wanted to pursue a career in the legal field?
AL: As early as elementary school I had an interest in being a lawyer. In high school, I debated and did well. I later received a debate scholarship to attend college. After I graduated from college, I worked for a small law practice. My experiences as a debater and working at a law firm solidified my desire to practice law.

Q: What expectations did you have after graduating and receiving your law degree?
AL: I think I expected to instantly be the best trial lawyer. It was a humbling experience. I am not of the belief that law school isn’t helpful because I think at a lot of the skills, I gained from law school I use every day. However, there are practical aspects of trying cases that develop over time. The more experienced you become the better you define your identity as a trial lawyer. I am perfecting my litigation skills every day.  

Q: What type of cases do you generally handle? 

AL: I am a personal injury attorney. I handle cases for people injured as a result of the negligence actions of others. My most common cases involve automobile accidents, slip and falls at commercial locations, dog bites and civil rights violations. I also assist claimants in their SSI/SSDI claims.

Q: What's the greatest fear you've had to overcome to get where you are today?  
AL: I had to get over the fear of failing or losing. You can redefine winning so that each trial is a successful experience no matter the outcome.

Q: What advice would you give to young women who want to pursue a career as an Attorney? 
AL: Just do it. There are so many reasons that can justify putting off going to law school. It may never seem like the perfect time to go to law school. But just go … work hard and you will succeed.

Q: Can you tell our audience one of your most memorable moments of your career?
AL: I once tried a very difficult case and it seemed like there was little hope, we would be successful. We tried the case and we were successful. After the trial, the client cried and thanked me. He told me he appreciated the win but more importantly, he appreciated me listening to him and believing him. It meant a lot to me because that is why I am a lawyer. 

Q: What’s one lesson you’ve learned in your career that you can share with our audience?
AL: The biggest lesson I have learned is to not sweat the small stuff. If you stay focused on your ultimate goal it will prevent you from being sidetracked or derailed by insignificant setbacks. 

Q: What are some of the challenges you feel women face today?
AL: One of the biggest challenge’s women face is the undervaluing of ourselves in the workplace. I believe it has a lot to do with our natural ability to compromise. These skills make us the best suited for negotiating settlements and handling cases at mediation. It also means women often do not demand a salary commensurate with their skillset. It's important that women recognize their value and demand that others recognize it as well.

Five Things About Attorney Anita Lamar

1. If you could talk to one famous person past or present, who would it be and why?
I would like to meet Serena Williams. I am so impressed with her professional accomplishments while being grounded and personable.    

2. What do you do in your spare time?
I enjoy working out and traveling. Family is important to me, so I spend a lot of time with my husband. Being with my family allows me to remain balanced.

3. If you were a superhero, what would your special powers be?
My super power would be flying. I’d love to fly over Atlanta traffic when traveling to Court.  

4. What app can’t you live without?
Google Maps – I use it to get everywhere. If I did not have Google Maps anymore, I wouldn’t be able to find anything.

5. What is one item you always pack in your suitcase?
I never travel without my running shoes. When I travel, I enjoy morning runs. It is a great way to learn a city that I am unfamiliar with.