2012 40 Under Forty: Lynette Paczkowski

Paczkowski

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SENIOR ASSOCIATE, Bowditch & Dewey LLP

Company location: Worcester

Residence: Worcester

Favorite movie: "Clue." Most people probably don't even know that movie exists.

Career highlights: I am a trial attorney. I joined B&D in 2008 after working at an insurance defense firm in Worcester and a boutique trial firm in Framingham. I manage cases from inception to trial or settlement. This includes advising business leaders on the benefits and risks of a lawsuit and the strengths and weaknesses of their claims or defenses, appearing in federal and state courts, arguing dispositive and pre-trial motions, conducting bench and jury trials, and representing clients in forums other than court, such as mediations and arbitrations.

Community involvement: I am vice president of the Young Professional Women's Association. In 2011, seven women in Worcester, including myself, launched that organization. I serve as co-chair for the Young Lawyers Section of the Worcester County Bar Association. I'm a member of the Community Legal Aid Access to Justice Campaign Leadership Committee and helped organize and present the Worcester Irish Music Festival from 2008-2010.

Biggest success: Being able to look back on my professional development with no regrets. I'm grateful for the opportunities I have had and proud that I made the most of each.

Biggest challenge: Building local support systems. I grew up in Pennsylvania, where the vast majority of my family still resides. After high school, I went to college in South Bend, Ind., then moved to Boston for law school, and have been living in Worcester since. Not having family around can be difficult.

Mentors: Too many to name, ranging from a high school English teacher to attorneys here at B&D. They encourage me to develop in a way that suits my personality and skill set, and are not looking for a clone of themselves.

Hidden talent: I throw two different change-ups in my slow-pitch softball league.

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