Her Story
About Malou
Malou Reyes is an accomplished paralegal with 24 years of experience in the legal profession, bringing a diverse background, strong legal knowledge, and a commitment to continuous learning to her work. Her career began in the hotel industry, where she worked in sales, before she discovered her interest in law through a business law course. Inspired by the breadth and real-world impact of the legal field, Malou decided to pursue a second career as a paralegal. She completed the UCLA Paralegal Program while pregnant with her son and has since built a successful legal career supporting attorneys and clients throughout California’s Inland Empire.
Over the course of her career, Malou has developed extensive experience in land use, CEQA, commercial and real estate law, litigation support, public records, document review, and discovery management. She spent 12 years specializing in land use and CEQA matters, gaining valuable insight into how development projects affect communities and the environment. She later transitioned into public records work, where she reviews documents, audio, and video materials to ensure that information responsive to public requests is properly disclosed while protecting confidential and legally exempt information. Her ability to adapt to new areas of law and apply her transferable skills has been a defining strength throughout her career. She currently serves as a Paralegal at Best Best & Krieger LLP (BBK).
Malou holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communication/Media Studies from Maryknoll College in the Philippines, graduating cum laude. Her degree was evaluated as equivalent to a four-year U.S. college degree, and she later completed the Attorney Assistant Training Program through UCLA Extension. In 2026, she earned her Certified E-Discovery Specialist (CEDS) certification through the Association of Certified E-Discovery Specialists, further expanding her expertise in modern discovery practices. Malou credits much of her success to her love of learning, adaptability, perseverance, and the encouragement of mentors who helped her recognize her own knowledge and abilities. She is passionate about embracing new challenges, contributing meaningfully to her team, and continuing to grow professionally. Outside of her career, Malou enjoys giving back to the community and supporting animal rescue organizations, including Ziggy’s Refugees.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Malou
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my curiosity, love of learning, adaptability, and willingness to embrace new challenges. My career began in the hotel industry and sales before I transitioned into the legal field after taking a business law course that opened my eyes to how deeply the law influences our lives, communities, businesses, and the world around us. I pursued UCLA’s paralegal program and discovered a genuine passion for the legal profession, which has now become a rewarding second career spanning more than 24 years. Over the years, I have worked in land use and CEQA matters, where I developed a strong appreciation for how development projects affect communities and the environment, and I have since transitioned into public records and e-discovery work. Each career change has taught me how important it is to pivot, adapt, and recognize that the skills and experiences I have gained along the way are transferable. I also attribute my success to my commitment to continuous education, including earning my e-discovery certification, and to my determination to put my heart and soul into everything I do. Most importantly, I strive to be a dependable contributor to my team, embrace every opportunity to grow, and make the most of every position I am fortunate to hold.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
One of the best pieces of career advice I ever received came from one of my attorneys, who told me that I knew more than I realized and encouraged me to stop relying on my boss as a crutch. That vote of confidence helped me recognize my own knowledge, experience, and capabilities and gave me the confidence to take on greater responsibilities and new challenges. It also taught me the importance of having mentors who believe in you, encourage your growth, and help you recognize your potential, especially when stepping outside of your comfort zone.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I value family, exploration, and lifelong learning in both my work and personal life. I especially enjoy traveling with my son and creating meaningful experiences together. This year, we traveled to Japan, and a few years ago, we explored Europe, allowing us to experience different cultures, traditions, and perspectives. We are also passionate foodies and enjoy discovering new cuisines wherever we travel. One memorable experience was dining at one of Gordon Ramsay’s restaurants in London, which was truly special. These experiences remind me of the importance of staying curious, embracing new perspectives, and making time for the people and experiences that enrich our lives.
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