Veronica O'Regan

I attribute my success to my father, whose work as a criminal defense attorney inspired me from a young age and motivated me to pursue this path.

To stand your ground and always know your worth.

My advice to young women entering this field is to believe in your voice and your abilities. The legal field can be challenging, but confidence, preparation, and persistence will set you apart. Don’t be afraid to take up space and advocate for yourself as strongly as you would for others.

One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is the continued gender inequality women face, particularly in leadership and high-stakes roles. Women are still often underestimated, talked over, or held to different standards than their male counterparts. In criminal defense, especially, women may have to work harder to be taken seriously by clients, colleagues, or even in the courtroom.

At the same time, this challenge creates an opportunity. More women are entering the legal field, advocating for one another, and pushing for greater representation and equity. These changes are helping reshape the profession and prove that strong advocacy does not look just one way. Women bring valuable perspectives to criminal defense, especially when it comes to empathy, communication, and fighting for fairness.

The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are acceptance, kindness, and connection. Acceptance allows me to approach people without judgment and understand their experiences. Kindness guides how I treat others, especially in difficult or high-stress situations. And while it may sound simple, hugging represents comfort and support to me—it’s about showing empathy, being present, and letting people know they’re not alone.