Margaret Mendez-Lodez, JD

ChatGPT said: I attribute my success to my resilience and determination, which were forged in the aftermath of a near-fatal accident when I was 19. Surviving that experience taught me the power of perseverance and the importance of never allowing circumstances—or the actions of others—to define my future. I made a conscious decision not to let the drunk driver who caused the accident “win” by taking away my sense of purpose or hope. That turning point became the foundation of my drive to build a meaningful life and career dedicated to justice, fairness, and helping others. The challenges I faced instilled in me a deep empathy for those navigating difficult circumstances and a passion for ensuring that every person is treated with respect and dignity. My professional path has been shaped by that resolve—to turn pain into purpose and to use my experiences to make a difference in the lives of others.

I don’t often seek advice, but the mindset that has guided me throughout my career is simple: “You either give up, or you keep going. And I chose to keep going.” That belief has carried me through life’s toughest moments and reminds me that perseverance, even in the face of adversity, is what defines true success.

My advice to young women entering this field is to expect challenges—both in life and in your career. Nothing worthwhile comes easily, and it’s important not to give up at the first sign of difficulty. Perseverance and inner strength will carry you further than talent alone ever could. Stay focused on your long-term purpose rather than temporary hardships; every obstacle you overcome will prepare you for the next level of growth and success.

One of the biggest challenges in the legal field today is the persistent discrimination faced by people with disabilities—even within government institutions that should model inclusion and equity. There is also a lack of compassion and accommodation in many legal workplaces, which makes it difficult for talented individuals to thrive while managing health or accessibility needs. Beyond that, ongoing substance abuse issues continue to lead to preventable tragedies, reminding me how much work remains to be done in public education and accountability. At the same time, I see great opportunities ahead. I’m passionate about using my experiences to inspire and educate others through motivational speaking, teaching law—particularly in areas like family and traffic law—and advocating for greater empathy and equity in the workplace. These paths offer meaningful ways to turn adversity into action and help shape a more just, inclusive legal system.

The values that guide me most deeply—both in my work and personal life—are compassion and humanity, particularly toward those who are disabled or marginalized. I believe every person deserves dignity, understanding, and the opportunity to be heard. Motivating others through my personal story and public service has become a core part of my purpose, allowing me to show that resilience and empathy can coexist with strength and professionalism. Integrity is also central to who I am. I value being honest about institutional flaws and advocating for meaningful change rather than accepting the status quo. In every professional setting, I strive to promote inclusion, kindness, and mutual support—because when people feel valued and respected, they not only do better work but also help create a culture where everyone can succeed.