Erica Gelfand on Owning Your Voice and Pivoting with Purpose in Law

In this episode of Verdicts & Vogue, Cristina Perez speaks with attorney Erica Gelfand about navigating gender bias in the legal profession, balancing motherhood and career, and having the courage to pivot professionally when necessary. Erica reflects on how women lawyers are often labeled “aggressive” or “combative” for expressing confidence, a bias Cristina also experienced throughout her career. Together they discuss the process of learning not to internalize those labels and the empowerment that comes from embracing authenticity.

Erica shares her background as the daughter of Soviet Jewish refugees, which inspired her to pursue immigration law and international human rights. After law school and earning an LLM, she dedicated years to immigration work, including helping families affected by the 2017 travel ban. While meaningful, the work became emotionally overwhelming, especially as she navigated pregnancy and new motherhood.

Ultimately, Erica transitioned into personal injury law in 2019, discovering a new way to advocate for people and guide them through difficult situations. The conversation highlights resilience, reinvention, and the importance of protecting personal well-being while continuing to serve others through the law.