Page 22 - Dallas Vol 6 No 1

Tips from the Top
MoR
helps to create opportunities for others to
achieve. I am proud to work with organiza-
ATTORNEY AT LAW MAGAZINE · DALLAS· VOL. 6 NO. 1 22
with
AALM: What is the best advice you received from a mentor gure?
Montoya: e legendary Judge Sarah T. Hughes, the rst female district judge in Tex- as and a staunch advocate for women’s and human rights, I clerked for. Judge Hughes had a mantra that she o en invoked, that was par- ticularly inspiring: “If you don’t do it, some- one else will.” Judge Hughes had such a pas- sion for standing up for what is right. She re- ally was a catalyst for my career path, and my life. Her advice I still share with young people as they embark on their own paths.
AALM: What qualities do you believe sepa- rate a good attorney from an excellent attor- ney?
Montoya: An excellent attorney is one that goes the extra mile. It is one thing to be com- petent and precise, but truly engaging with a client and ensuring that they understand legal developments, is crucial.
AALM: In terms of retaining clients, what single act do you believe is most e ective?
Montoya: Understand where a client is coming from. Each client is unique with their own background and experience. Make an ef- fort to know who they are. In addition to their business, take the time listen to their needs and goals. ey have placed an extraordinary amount of con dence in your ability, and you should honor that privilege.
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AALM: What advice would you o er a newly licensed attorney?
Montoya: Keep a good perspective. Remember what is truly important in life, and how they can impact their community, even in the smallest of ways. e most meaningful work is giving back to others by volunteering, which