LaWanda Brice
LaWanda Brice is a highly experienced Senior Legal Secretary and Legal Assistant with more than 35 years of dedicated service in the legal field, specializing in insurance defense and construction defect litigation. Her career has spanned both private law firms and in-house counsel environments, where she has supported attorneys with advanced case management, legal research, document preparation, discovery coordination, and litigation support. Known for her exceptional command of Microsoft Office and Windows-based applications, LaWanda is regarded as a technical expert and a dependable cornerstone of legal administrative operations. Beyond her legal support roles, LaWanda brings over five years of experience as an Insurance Claims Representative and Special Investigations Unit (SIU) Investigator, giving her a unique dual perspective that strengthens the depth and quality of her work. Her ability to conduct complex investigations across fire, water, property, theft, and auto claims has enhanced her understanding of case dynamics and strengthened her contributions to defense teams. This blend of legal, investigative, and administrative expertise makes her an invaluable resource in high-stakes litigation environments. Currently serving as a Senior Legal Secretary at Resnick & Louis, P.C., LaWanda is also entrusted with training new Legal Secretaries and Paralegals— reflecting her leadership, mentorship, and mastery of best practices within the profession. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Phoenix and an AAS in Paralegal Studies from Phoenix College, where she earned academic honors. With her deep industry knowledge, professionalism, and commitment to excellence, LaWanda continues to elevate the standards of legal support and contribute meaningfully to every team she serves.
• University of Phoenix - BS
• Phoenix College - AAS
• Magna Cum Laude
• Association of Notaries
• National Honors Society
• Phi Delta Phi
• Urban Outreach
• Church volunteer
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work, motivation and never giving up! I was a single mom who worked both full-time and part-time jobs and went to school full time. I strived to be successful and to make my son and family proud of me. I wanted to show young single mothers that you can do anything you set your mind to, that you can be a mother and have a successful career, and that you're not a failure if you had an unplanned or unexpected pregnancy at an age earlier than you planned to become a parent!
I wanted to show people that a successful and rewarding career is always within reach, keep striving and never give up. No matter what my circumstances were, which were often difficult, I never stopped working towards my goals.
I put myself through school 3 times and obtained 3 college degrees between the ages of 18-35. I went to a Trade School after graduating high school and obtained a Legal Secretary Diploma. A few years later I went to a community college and obtained my Associates Degree in Paralegal Studies. In my 30's I went to school a 3rd time and obtained my Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice Administration. I was determined and motivated to give myself and my son the best life I possibly could.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received was to find something that I enjoy doing, do well and that make me happy. When someone does that it often doesn't feel like work at all!
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would say that you need to be able to handle constructive criticism and work with people who have very strong personalities. I developed what I call "thick skin" early in my career, to save me from being crushed by sensitivity in an industry that is highly demanding and extremely fast paced. Also find good mentors to help you along the way.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I would say the biggest challenges in the legal field right now are dealing with people who are in a bad situation or circumstance, without being offended by what they say or do, as well as the stigmatism of the legal industry in our world.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in my work life is to do the best job possible on everything I do. I always strive to give 110%, be proactive, and go above and beyond. Being a hard worker, who is dedicated, dependable and knowledgeable in my field is also important to me.
The most important value in my personal life is to have work life balance. I like to have hobbies or pastimes that I truly enjoy! I also put God first in all that I do and am thankful for his presence in my life. I am very involved in my Church and enjoy corporate worship. Lastly, I make it a priority to take small trips every 3-4 months to destress and rejuvenate myself. I also value spending time with my family, friends, and friends who have become family.
Locations
Resnick & Louis, P.C.
Phoenix, AZ 85044