Katherine Anderson: Owning Your Path and Redefining Success
In Part 2 of Verdicts & Vogue, Cristina Perez Hesano and Kathryn Anderson explore what it means to intentionally build a career after leaving Big Law. The conversation focuses on growth, discipline, and staying grounded in purpose while navigating high stakes personal injury litigation.
Katey shares a standout case where strategic thinking and persistence, including identifying additional liability through dram shop law, helped achieve a strong outcome. This highlights the importance of preparation, creativity, and teamwork. She also reflects on moving from the collaborative world of bankruptcy law to the more adversarial nature of personal injury, including challenges with opposing counsel and delays in resolution.
A key theme is her approach to success. She prioritizes thorough preparation, carefully identifying potential weaknesses and preparing for them in advance. This allows her to enter court with confidence, knowing she has done the necessary work.
The episode also brings in personal insights, including balancing demanding careers with family life and the pressures women face in the legal profession. Cristina and Katey explain how their different personalities create a strong partnership. Cristina is more structured and reserved, while Katey brings openness and authenticity.
A memorable moment involves a client who brought her newborn to a deposition. Instead of disrupting the process, it became an example of adaptability and compassion in practice.
Overall, the episode emphasizes ownership, resilience, and clarity. It shows that success is built through preparation, consistency, and the willingness to take risks while creating a path that aligns with personal values.
