Feature Friday

What is your current role and what are your main responsibilities?

I am a first-year associate in my firm’s real estate practice group. My responsibilities include due diligence related tasks (title and survey review, estoppel and SNDA drafting, checklist preparation and deal tracking); drafting (deeds, resolutions, assignments, title objections, etc.); and some tasks specific to the leasing context.

What three words would you use to describe yourself?

Compassionate; meticulous; reliable

Who has had the greatest influence on your professional development, and how?

My dad has had the greatest influence on my professional development. I don’t come from a family of lawyers, but he has always been my model for what it means to be both a hard‑working individual and a proud Serb. Watching his work ethic and the pride he takes in who he is and where he comes from has shaped how I approach my own career, the standards I set for myself, and the way I want to represent my community in the legal profession.

What skills or qualities do you believe are most important for success in the legal profession?

I believe one of the most important qualities for success in the legal profession is effective communication. For me, that means not only strong written and verbal advocacy, but also attentive, client‑focused listening. Lawyers need to be able to explain complex legal issues clearly, draft precise documents, and present arguments persuasively, but we also have to listen carefully to what clients are really asking for—their goals, concerns, and constraints—so we can tailor our advice to their needs and earn their trust.

Jovana Paic
Attorney at Taft

What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given?

The best piece of advice I’ve ever been given is to live with the same integrity in private that you show in public. As an Orthodox Christian, that means letting my faith quietly guide how I treat people—being honest, respectful, and humble—rather than just talking about what I believe. Translating this to the professional context, it reminds me that real credibility comes from consistent character: doing excellent work, keeping my word, and serving clients and colleagues with humility and care.

What do you hope to get out of the Serbian Attorney Association in 2026?

I’m excited to build a professional network rooted in our shared heritage, find mentors, and eventually be in a position to mentor younger Serbian law students and attorneys myself. I also hope to get involved in programs and events that promote our visibility in the broader legal profession and allow me to give back to the Serbian‑American community.

Feature Friday
Past Stories

What is your current role and what are your main responsibilities? I am a recent law school graduate and newly admitted attorney in New York. While seeking an opportunity that aligns with my interests at the intersection of business and law, I am actively developing my practical skills by working on matters related to intellectual property, corporate, commercial, and contract law. Please share a brief overview of your career path and how you got to where you are today, including what inspired you to pursue a career in law. I’m a first-generation everything: Serbian-American and attorney. Being a child of immigrants, I’ve always had a nonconformist spirit, seeking to stand out from the crowd and never following trends, because I valued individuality over blending in. This mindset fostered my appreciation for innovation, attention to detail, and creativity, which naturally led me to intellectual property law. I was also intrigued by the law because no one in my family had pursued it before, and I have always been a curious person, drawn to understanding how rules shape society and influence people’s lives. These qualities, combined with my interest in business, sparked my desire to work at the intersection of IP, business, and legal affairs—ideally within the media, entertainment, or fashion industries. Who has had the greatest influence on your professional development, and how? My parents have had the greatest influence on my professional development. As immigrants from Serbia, they showed me firsthand what determination, perseverance, and resilience truly mean. My mom, a medical doctor and educator, and my dad, an engineer and businessman who holds two master’s degrees, instilled in me the belief that education is one of your most important assets. Their work ethic, sacrifices, and commitment to building a better future have shaped the discipline, motivation, and respect for learning that continue to guide me throughout my legal career. What three words would you use to describe yourself? Resilient, dedicated, and enduring—traits that all revolve around stamina. And as I like to say, you can’t spell stamina without Mina. What skills or qualities do you believe are most important for success in the legal profession? The ability to communicate clearly, adaptability, and continuous learning are essential, as the law is constantly evolving. Being bilingual and bicultural enhances my perceptiveness, allowing me to understand diverse perspectives and communicate effectively with people from different backgrounds—skills that are invaluable in the legal field. What are some of your most significant professional achievements? One of my most significant professional achievements was organizing and hosting the Third Annual Intellectual Property Law Society × Media, Entertainment, & Fashion Law Association Symposium at New York Law School. Featuring CLE-accredited panels and a compelling keynote by TED Conferences’ General Counsel on the future of legal education in an AI-driven world, the symposium highlighted the importance of collaboration and innovation while exploring the vital intersection of law and creativity. The event brought together legal professionals, students, and industry leaders to share insights, foster connections, and discuss emerging trends in intellectual property, media, entertainment, and fashion law. Coordinating such a multifaceted event not only strengthened my organizational and leadership skills but also reinforced my passion for bridging law with creative industries. What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given? My dad has always told me to “keep your highs and lows close together.” That advice has stayed with me and reminds me to stay grounded during successes, strong during challenges, and steady no matter the circumstances. What do you hope to get out of the Serbian Attorney Association in 2026? Serbia is a small, but mighty, country, and as members of the Serbian legal diaspora, I believe it’s especially important that we support one another in a big and often overwhelming world. In 2026, I hope to continue building meaningful connections within the Association, strengthen our sense of community, and be part of a network where we truly show up for one another—professionally and personally—while sharing knowledge and experiences across borders.

What is your current role and what are your main responsibilities? I am an attorney at Parikh Law Group, located in Chicago, IL and Glenview, IL. I specialize in contractual law with a focus in real estate. Overall, I assist clients from start to finish in legal transactions for: residential or commercial transactions, business and asset acquisitions, and business entity formation. Please share a brief overview of your career path and how you got to where you are today, including what inspired you to pursue a career in law. Law was never anything I considered pursuing, however, my skills always indicated it was the best career path for me and I knew I wanted to help others in some way. My initial post-graduation plan to practice FELA law in Chicago shifted when court closures in 2020 limited opportunities, leading me instead to real estate law. That unexpected change became a defining moment in my career, and I haven’t looked back since. Who has had the greatest influence on your professional development, and how? My father. He instilled in me the values of hard work, perseverance, and never settling for less than I’m capable of achieving. His guidance has shaped both my personal and professional growth. What aspects of your work do you find most fulfilling? The most rewarding aspect of my work is helping clients navigate meaningful transitions—whether entering a new chapter or closing an old one—and doing so alongside colleagues who have become trusted partners and friends. What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given? Never underestimate your potential, and never settle for less than what you’re capable of achieving. What do you hope to get out of the Serbian Attorney Association? I hope to connect with fellow professionals who share my Serbian heritage and to contribute to the continued growth and unity of our community.

What is your current role and what are your main responsibilities? I am a personal injury attorney at Clifford Law Offices. We are a personal injury firm, representing victims who are injured by the negligence of others. Notably, we have represented the families of victims of almost every major plane crash incident dating back many years. We also handle cases involving car crashes, workplace injuries, and catastrophic injuries of all sorts. I am a senior associate at the firm tasked with litigating these cases. Please share a brief overview of your career path and how you got to where you are today, including what inspired you to pursue a career in law I've wanted to be a lawyer since high school. Law is one of the only professions where you can make an outsized impact on others, whether it's the public, through public interest law, or specific clients in the private sector. Fresh out of law school, I worked as an associate at Winston & Strawn LLP. I realized that I wanted to get rapid-fire, constant courtroom experience. So after only a year, I became an assistant state's attorney in Chicago. I relished my time as a criminal prosecutor in that role. The cases ranged from riveting to downright disturbing. I threw everything I had at the many cases I worked on. After a few years, I joined the U.S. Attorney's Office in Chicago, where I spent several years as a criminal prosecutor. There, I worked with the FBI to investigate and charge major cases, from white collar fraud to gang violence. I left the U.S. Attorney's Office to join Clifford Law Offices in Chicago, where I vindicate the rights of different victims—those injured by the negligence of another. What skills or qualities do you believe are most important for success in the legal profession? Many attorneys, particularly in high-volume areas, learn by watching others do what they do. Often young attorneys proceed by repeating canned talking points that they've heard delivered at different stages of litigation. While it's crucial to learn from others, it's also essential to remember the source material: the actual statute, the rules of procedure, the Supreme Court rules, the local rules, the standing orders. Often, the devil is in the details. Missing something in the actual legal text can be devastating for your case. But on the flip side, you can prevail over a less prepared opposing counsel by maintaining a relentless grasp on the law itself. Keeping the law at top of mind may seem obvious, but sometimes we forget to do it! What are some of your most significant professional achievements? Recently, I published a book called American Justice: From the Frontlines of the War on Crime. The book reached #1 best-seller status for its category of Law Enforcement within the Amazon bookstore. It's an account of my experience, as a prosecutor, in the criminal justice system. I cover some of my cases that made local, national, and even international news. It's a wild ride! And I think it highlights the underlying issues with the system as it currently functions. It also provides a rare look into advanced investigative techniques and technologies and how they're leveraged to catch criminals. What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given? Reading books will bring you to new heights. I have kept in the practice of reading books on my commute and it has provided me a better education than any institution ever could. I read everything from books on legal writing techniques, to books about the economy, to police procedural novels. How do you balance your professional and personal life? With the help of my wife, Aleksandra. We have two lovely daughters, two cats, and a dog at home. I look forward to walking through my front door into the chaos every single day.

What is your current role and what are your main responsibilities? I recently earned my master’s degree in Trial Advocacy and completed an internship, where I was actively involved in a wide range of litigation tasks. During my internship, I worked on civil rights cases, including Monell claims, conducted legal research, reviewed medical records, and assisted with motions related to name change petitions. I regularly observed court proceedings at the 7th Circuit, attended strategy meetings, and participated in trial preparation, including witness preparation and jury selection observation. Prior to coming to the U.S., I worked for several years in state administration abroad. I am currently seeking opportunities to apply my experience and commitment to advocacy in a meaningful legal role. Tell us a little about your career path. How did you get here? My journey began shortly after law school, working in a law office in Belgrade. Soon after, I joined the state administration, where I worked in the legal department for nearly six years. In 2022, I made the decision to pursue legal education in the U.S. It was a big shift, but one I felt deeply called to. I chose Trial Advocacy because I’m passionate about advocacy, human stories, and building strong cases. I truly believe it’s never too late to choose yourself and follow your real calling. How would you describe yourself in three words? Energy. Joy. Dedication. These values guide everything I do, whether it’s in my studies, professional roles, or relationships with others. Please share a brief overview of your career path and how you got to where you are today, including what inspired you to pursue a career in law. I’ve always been drawn to justice, structure, and using the law to help people. Working in both private and public sectors confirmed that I thrive in environments where I can think critically and act with purpose. I want to be someone who advocates not just with legal skill, but with heart and empathy. Who has had the greatest influence on your professional development, and how? My first principal had a profound impact on me. She primarily worked on restitution and property law, but it was her approach to the work that left a lasting impression. Her energy, professionalism, and the way she celebrated both small wins and big successes stayed with me. She showed me that it's possible to be deeply committed to your career while staying grounded in your values and family life. What skills or qualities do you believe are most important for success in the legal profession? I believe stability, dedication, and a broad, forward-thinking mindset are key. Being adaptable, staying one step ahead, and showing up as your authentic self are also qualities that make a strong and compassionate legal professional. What are some of your most significant professional achievements? One of my proudest achievements was contributing to a complex restitution case early in my career. I wrote the final appeal in the case, which played a key role in a successful claim. Seeing justice served in that way was incredibly rewarding and that situation always stayed with me, probably to remind me of work that truly matters to me. What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given? Stay true to yourself. It sounds simple, but it’s something I come back to in every major decision. Also, I love a quote I came across recently: “Don’t raise your voice. Improve your argument.” As someone who values clarity and purpose in advocacy, this really speaks to me. It’s a reminder that confidence doesn’t have to be loud, it just has to be well-reasoned. How do you balance your professional and personal life? I love the saying, “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.” If something matters to me, I make time for it. It's not always perfect, but I believe it's important not to lose sight of your priorities and what truly brings you joy. Please share a fun or interesting fact about yourself that not many people know. I used to play volleyball as a kid, and honestly, I was pretty good! (Or at least that’s what I still tell myself.) Maybe it was raw talent, maybe it was just pure love for the game, but probably a bit of both. These days, I still enjoy beach volleyball, not just for the sport, but because it brings me back to that joyful period of my life. What do you hope to get out of the Serbian Attorney Association? I’m excited to learn from professionals who have successfully built their careers here in the U.S., and I hope to connect with mentors and peers who can share valuable insights. I also hope my journey might inspire others, especially those who think it’s too late to start over. It hasn’t always been easy, but every challenge has helped me grow, as a legal professional and as a person.