AYLA Member Spotlight: Shivangi Mehta

AUSTIN YOUNG LAWYERS ASSOCIATION

AYLA: Tell us a little bit about yourself and your law practice.

MEHTA: I am originally from New York and went to law school in Ohio, but I made my way down to Texas during the pandemic. I’m enjoying Texas and all it has to offer (and while I do not miss the snow, I do miss the New York style pizza). I work as a trial attorney with Zinda Law Group. Our main office is in Austin, but we practice all over the country. Our practice focuses on catastrophic personal injury. We represent people in the community who have been injured and work tirelessly to seek justice for them.

AYLA: How long have you been involved in AYLA and what’s been your best AYLA experience so far?

MEHTA: I joined AYLA just last month, in March 2022, and everyone has been so welcoming! I attended the AYLA Orangetheory class that was put on by the fitness committee and enjoyed meeting the other members. I look forward to all the future events and can’t wait to get more involved!

AYLA: What was your childhood dream job?

MEHTA: A lawyer! True story, I wrote it in my fifth-grade yearbook. To be honest, I don’t think I truly understood what a lawyer did at the time, but I remember thinking it was a way to speak up for people who couldn’t always speak up for themselves and that seemed like the coolest job.

AYLA: What’s your favorite moment of your career so far?

MEHTA: Attending my first hearing. I was extremely nervous and did not think I would know what to do or what to say. But I did my research, spoke with a senior attorney, and made sure I knew the file. I walked in confidently (more like sat down confidently since I was at home, and it was via Zoom) and advocated for my client. It was the best feeling, and I realized how important it is to get your reps in and that it gets more comfortable with time.

Put yourself out there and talk to everyone you can. Whether it’s an opportunity to observe a deposition, take one yourself, or meet with other local attorneys, do it!

AYLA: What are some of the things you enjoy most about living in Austin?

MEHTA: I love walking around the city. It has so many different areas with a bunch of different activities. I enjoy going to Zilker, walking around the Domain, and trying out different restaurants. The food is delicious (especially the tacos)!

AYLA: What’s your best piece of advice for fellow young attorneys?

MEHTA: Put yourself out there and talk to everyone you can. Whether it’s an opportunity to observe a deposition, take one yourself, or meet with other local attorneys, do it! I’m new to the area but I’m finding that that has helped me grow as an attorney and explore Austin at the same time. AL