Her Story
About Shaila
Shaila Jahan is an international legal professional who has served as a Legal Administrative Assistant at Gehi & Associates, a prominent New York City based immigration law firm. She is a multilingual professional, fluent in Bangla, English, Hindi, and Urdu, which enables her to effectively support clients from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. She is highly proficient in legal research, with experience using platforms such as Westlaw and LexisNexis. Ms. Jahan is committed to delivering high-quality legal services across jurisdictions, supported by a strong foundation in both domestic and international legal systems. In addition, she has served as a Case Manager at a New York based nonprofit organization ASHO, further demonstrating her dedication to client advocacy and community service.
Before moving to the United States, she practiced full-time as a lawyer at the Supreme Court of Bangladesh. She was a seasoned legal practitioner, enrolled as an Advocate of both the Appellate and High Court Divisions of the Supreme Court of Bangladesh. Her Legal Expertise in Bangladesh as an Advocate in the High Court Division included drafting pleadings, motions, and legal briefs in complex civil and constitutional matters. Conducted in-depth legal research and case analysis to support litigation strategy. During her years of practice, she individually handled various cases involving women and children, she focused on domestic violence, family disputes, and human rights violations. She also actively worked on human rights initiatives, advocating for vulnerable populations and marginalized communities. She has contributed to legal writing and public legal awareness in Bangladesh through her published articles and digital content. Her writings in online news portal cover a range of important legal topics, including Dower! The Muslim Women’s Rights in Islam, The Proper Enforcement of Environmental Pollution laws, and Law Needs to Reform in Medical Negligence Case.
In addition to her written work, she has actively engaged in social awareness through an online news portal platform. On its associated YouTube platform, she has created and shared informative content addressing key legal and social issues such as Rape as a Social Curse, Abandoned (Vested) Property Laws, and various dower-related legal matters under Bangladeshi law. Through her legal practice, publications and digital content, she has played a role in educating the public and raising awareness about significant legal and social issues in Bangladesh.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Shaila
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to setting ambitious goals, remaining resilient in the face of obstacles, following discipline and continuously seeking ways to learn, improve, and contribute to my community. Success, to me, is the result of consistent effort, integrity, and a willingness to embrace new opportunities for growth and service. I believe growth happens when we embrace challenges and remain focused on our purpose.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
I was told to stay focused on the long-term vision and not be discouraged by temporary obstacles. Consistency and patience are often the foundation of meaningful success. To learn every single day, to grow each day be prepared before opportunities arrive. Manifest each day to achieve the goal.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
To young women entering the legal profession, I would encourage to believe in their abilities, invest in continuous learning, and never allow barriers or stereotypes to define potentiality. Build expertise, uphold integrity, seek mentorship, and let the work speak for itself. The legal profession needs more women who are willing to advocate for justice, lead with confidence, and create opportunities for future generations.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
For women in law, one of the challenges remains breaking barriers in leadership roles. However, there are growing opportunities as more institutions recognize the importance of diversity and inclusive representation. Another challenge is the constant need to stay updated with evolving laws and global legal standards. The biggest opportunity right now is for young lawyers to shape the future of the legal system through innovation, advocacy, and stronger engagement with social justice issues.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are honesty, resilience, discipline, and self respect. I care to treat people with respect, standing up for right and remaining committed to my goals even in the face of challenge. I believe these form the foundation of both a meaningful career and a grounded personal life.
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