Lisa M. Conner
Lisa Conner is a highly skilled Corporate and Securities Paralegal with over a decade of experience supporting legal teams across prestigious firms. Currently, she serves at Kaufman & Canoles, bringing a wealth of expertise in corporate governance and legal writing. Previously, she held a similar position at Hirschler Fleischer, where she contributed significantly to corporate law matters, including compliance, document preparation, and securities regulations. Her thorough understanding of legal procedures and her commitment to precision have made her a trusted professional in the field.
Lisa's legal career began in 2006 when she joined Williams Mullen as a legal assistant for 8 years, and then transitioned to a Corporate and Securities Paralegal, where she excelled for 9 more years. In this role, she was instrumental in drafting legal documents, handling U.S. SEC filings, and providing vital support to corporate clients navigating complex regulatory environments. Her depth of experience and strong problem-solving skills have consistently helped clients achieve their business goals while maintaining compliance with relevant laws.
In addition to her professional experience, Lisa holds a Paralegal Certificate from James Madison University, where she graduated with a perfect GPA. She is deeply committed to her ongoing professional development and values the opportunity to mentor and guide junior paralegals. Outside of her legal career, Lisa is passionate about contributing to her community, volunteering her time to local causes and organizations.
• James Madison University
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the incredible attorneys and dedicated staff I’ve had the privilege of working with throughout my career. Their support and collaboration have been invaluable. I also believe in the importance of being bold and open to trying new approaches, which has allowed me to continuously grow and adapt in this field.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is simple yet powerful: "Don’t give up." Challenges are inevitable, but instead of feeling overwhelmed, I’ve learned to break them down into manageable steps and tackle them one by one. This mindset has helped me stay focused and resilient, even when faced with difficult situations.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is simple: if you're interested in changing your career, go for it! Don’t let the fear of your age or any other barriers hold you back. Pursue what excites you, and remember that growth and success come from taking risks and stepping out of your comfort zone. The right opportunities will come as long as you're willing to put yourself out there and keep learning.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
In my field, one of the biggest challenges right now is adapting to new assignments that require deep research and a constant need to stay updated on the latest regulations and practices. With the legal landscape constantly evolving, it’s crucial to stay on top of changes and be adaptable to new challenges. However, these challenges also present opportunities—particularly in the form of learning and growth. Every new assignment and research task offers a chance to expand my knowledge and sharpen my skills, which ultimately makes me more effective in my role and enhances my career trajectory.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
In both my work and personal life, honesty and integrity are the core values I prioritize. I believe they are the foundation for building trust, whether in professional relationships or personal connections. If I make a mistake, I believe it’s important to own up to it right away and take steps to fix it, rather than avoid or cover it up. This openness not only fosters accountability but also strengthens credibility and encourages a culture of transparency and growth.