3 minute read
From Prosecutor to Private Practice to Partner
Tara Barnes Taylor
Partner, Rollins, Smalkin, Richards & Mackie
Tara Barnes Taylor is a partner at Rollins, Smalkin, Richards & Mackie where she primarily practices insurance defense. A civil litigator, Ms. Taylor’s practice includes insurance defense, personal injury, contractual disputes, insurance subrogation, and professional negligence. Before turning to private practice, Ms. Taylor served as an Assistant State's Attorney in Baltimore City for seven years, where she investigated and vigorously prosecuted felony offenses in Baltimore City.
WE CONNECTED WITH Ms. Taylor to learn a little more about her career and about how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected her practice.
What motivated you to become an attorney?
Growing up in New York City, I was keenly aware of injustices and necessary changes in the criminal justice system. I realized early on that the most effective way to institute change was from within. I was taught that complaints are not enough, if I want a change, I must work for it. I am proud of my services as a Prosecutor and now as a civil defense attorney. It is my goal to continue working toward the same goals I set as a child.
What do you enjoy about working in private practice and at Rollins, Smalkin, Richards & Mackie?
I am immensely proud of my firm and its rich history. We celebrated our centennial anniversary in 2019, which is a significant accomplishment and further demonstrates the legacy, reputation and strength of the firm. I plan to continue and assist in our growth and development.
What has been a defining moment in your career? How has this moment affected you and your career?
I am proud to become the first African American female partner at my firm. I recognize the importance of my position and the opportunity to support, encourage and advocate for diversity in the law.
Switching gears, how did your firm respond to the COVID-19 pandemic?
The COVID-19 pandemic required a sudden and thoughtful approach to ensuring the protection and safety of our attorneys and staff, while maintaining our dedicated defense and advocacy of our clients. Like many law firms, we instituted a remote work policy allowing attorneys and support staff to work remotely on a rotating basis. We continued to monitor the transition to allow for necessary changes and improvements.
Please describe any challenges you encountered transitioning to a mostly remote environment.
Fortunately, in maintaining active communication with attorneys, staff and clients we were able to minimize challenges. This involved weekly attorney zoom meetings and regular email and telephone contact with clients. We worked closely with our IT department to ensure our remote system was able to handle the rapidly changing work environment. In doing so, we have been able to effectively adjust to this national pandemic.
What was the feedback from your clients on the switch to working remotely?
Our clients have mostly also transitioned to a remote work structure. The overall feedback has been positive. Our attorneys have done a great job keeping clients informed and updated on every aspect of their case and the Courts.
What are the biggest factors in transitioning a remote office for the future (Post-COVID world)?
COVID-19 has taught us that alternate options are available for the effective practice of law. In adjusting to remote work offices and court proceedings, it is imperative that client impact, technological related factors are considered. We must take an active role in maintaining regular contact with colleagues by way of virtual meetings and checkins. Everyone may not handle a remote work environment as well as others. We must remain cognizant of the difficulties involved in the transition, so necessary adjustments may be considered and implemented.
How do you see your firm and others in your practice area adjusting post-COVID? What are your predictions for the future of the practice area?
I predict the future practice of law will involve a significant increase of virtual case management and less in person contact.
