Her Story
About Dawn
Dawn Keiser is a Certified Paralegal and seasoned legal professional serving as a Senior Paralegal at Burns White LLC in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania. With approximately three decades of experience in the legal field, she has developed extensive expertise in litigation management, legal research, case coordination, and administrative support. Throughout her career, Dawn has worked on both the plaintiff and defense sides of litigation, gaining valuable experience across multiple practice areas, including insurance subrogation, commercial and business litigation, healthcare litigation, medical malpractice, and family law. Her professional background also includes working in Pennsylvania, California, and Florida, providing her with a broad understanding of legal procedures and litigation practices.
In her current role at Burns White LLC, Dawn manages complex litigation matters from inception through resolution, serving as a key point of contact between attorneys and clients. She oversees case files, coordinates deadlines, reviews medical records, prepares medical chronologies, drafts pleadings and discovery documents, and assists with trial preparation. Her responsibilities also include working with insurance companies, organizing corporate policies and contracts, coordinating with expert witnesses, and conducting research to support litigation strategies. Drawing on her strong organizational, analytical, and leadership skills, Dawn is recognized for her ability to manage competing priorities, improve processes, and provide dependable support to legal teams. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, where she studied speech communications and public relations.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Dawn values mentorship, service, and supporting others through meaningful connections. She has dedicated time to mentoring a young women's Bible study group for two years and has shared her personal experiences with parents of children born with birth defects to provide encouragement and understanding. These experiences reflect her commitment to helping others navigate challenges and find support through difficult circumstances. Through her extensive legal experience, collaborative approach, and dedication to serving both her clients and community, Dawn continues to make a meaningful contribution to the legal profession.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Dawn
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my 30-year legal career, which has given me experience in insurance, family law, and insurance subrogation across different firms and states. Throughout my journey, I have learned to adapt, solve problems, and thrive in male-dominated environments. Today, I manage 112 cases across 15 attorneys, ensuring files are organized and court deadlines are met. I have grown from an introvert into a confident leader and problem-solver, guided by the simple principle, “Keep it simple, stupid,” which reminds me to stay focused, practical, and solution-oriented.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I received came through the guidance of two incredible mentors, attorneys Howard Maycon and Mark Roth, whom I worked with in Los Angeles. They helped build my confidence and encouraged me to grow professionally. I’ve also learned the importance of investing in myself, whether through Reformer Pilates, Zumba, weight training, hiking, or camping with my two dogs, one of whom is a service dog. Taking care of myself allows me to show up as the best version of myself for others.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the legal field is to never give up and never let anyone convince you that you cannot achieve something. Believe in yourself, embrace challenges, and recognize your potential to grow. I started as an introvert and gradually developed into a confident leader and problem-solver. I also live by the motto “Keep it simple, stupid,” which reminds me to stay practical, focus on solutions, and approach challenges with confidence.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of my biggest opportunities is writing a book to share my journey, inspire others, and show how perseverance and self-belief can lead to personal and professional growth.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I value perseverance, compassion, and the opportunity to inspire others through my experiences. Despite being told I would not succeed in college and facing numerous personal challenges, I have built a fulfilling career and dedicated time to mentoring young women and supporting families. Giving back, sharing my story, and showing others that challenges do not define their future are central to my values. I hope to continue making a difference through a podcast and a book that encourage others to believe in themselves and never give up.
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