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ing short of amazing. Several years ago, some of the most successful and prominent female bankruptcy attorneys in South Florida and nationwide, two of whom are now fed- eral bankruptcy judges, formed a “Lean In Lunch Group.” e goal was to connect with women in the insolvency practice over lunch, discuss challenges in our practices and ways in which we could assist each other in achiev- ing success, provide mentoring, and facilitate business development opportunities. I was honored to be involved in this group, which included women practitioners at all stages of their careers, and which gave me the opportunity to both receive and provide advice and mentoring. I en- deavor to pay this forward every day.
AALM: Do you nd that as a woman you face any chal- lenges that men don’t?
Mark: De nitely. While the legal profession has come a long way, there are still stereotypes and preconceptions to overcome. I remember as a young attorney arriving at a deposition in New York City. When my male opposing counsel came to the lobby, he walked up to me and said, “Oh, you must be the court reporter.” at stuck with me. At the same time, however, this was nothing new. Just as I am a driven woman, I was a driven girl, and I have expe- rienced situations like this throughout my life. But I don’t let it phase me. When people underestimate me, I gain the advantage.
AALM: Tell us something about yourself that people would be surprised to learn.
Mark: I am not a natural blonde.
AALM: How are you involved in the legal community and the local community?
Mark: Life is all about relationships, progress, and giv- ing back, so professional and community involvement are critical. I currently serve as a director of the International Women’s Insolvency and Restructuring Confederation (IWIRC), Florida Chapter. IWIRC is committed to the connection, promotion, and success of women in the in- solvency and restructuring professions, and provides an international platform to do so.
I also serve as a director of the Bankruptcy Bar Associa- tion for the Southern District of Florida, which provides the opportunity to assist in improving our local bank- ruptcy bar while connecting with fellow local bankruptcy practitioners.
Finally, I proudly serve as a member of the Legal Services of Greater Miami, Inc. campaign committee. For over 50 years, this organization has been a powerful advocate for equal justice and access to legal representation in our com- munity. I am honored to contribute to this worthy cause.
AALM: What compelled you to start your own practice.
Mark: My entrepreneurial spirit, which I got from my father, but unlike him, mine developed over time. Early on in my career, and throughout my life, I was very risk-averse. Prior to forming Cimo Mazer Mark, I was lucky to work at two excellent rms, on complex matters, with wonderful colleagues. I achieved much success at my prior rms, in- cluding making partner, and I am thankful for the opportu- nities that were given to me. Forming my own law rm was the natural next step for me. e next challenge.
AT a glance
CIMO MAZER MARK PLLC
100 S.E. 2nd Street, Suite 3650 Miami, FL 33131 www.cmmlawgroup.com
EDUCATION
Juris Doctor, Cum Laude, University of Florida Levin College of Law
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Finance, Summa Cum Laude, University of Florida
AWARDS
Florida Super Lawyers
Florida Trend, Florida Legal Elite
South Florida Legal Guide, Top Up and Comers
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
International Women’s Insolvency and Restructuring Confederation, Florida Chapter, Director
Bankruptcy Bar Association, Southern District of Florida, Director
Legal Services of Greater Miami, Campaign Committee
HOBBIES
Florida Gators Football
RIVERRUNARTS