When Laura Salerno Owens graduated from college, she set forth on a career as an event planner.
“I didn’t know what I wanted to do, but I definitely didn’t want to become a lawyer,” Salerno Owens said of her younger self.
Then she read something that opened her eyes. Now with 16 years of practice under her belt, Salerno Owens has built a track record of successful litigation and advocacy for clients enmeshed in high-stakes business disputes.
Notably, she has taken on Nike Inc. on behalf of dozens of employees, including women who are seeking class-action status in a sexual harassment equal pay and gender discrimination lawsuit against the sneaker giant.
We asked her about her career path and whether she's ever intimidated by legal adversaries.
What made you want to become a lawyer? I read book saying one of the highest indicators of happiness at work is autonomy, being able to choose who you work with and what you do. As a lawyer, you can always hang up your own shingle and choose your own clients. I always had a natural tendency to like to argue and win. I’m a very competitive person by nature.
Did you play sports growing up? Girls’ soccer was very popular. I was the goalkeeper and an all-city softball player and the catcher. You’re seeing a theme. I like to be the one who sees the whole field, tells everyone what to do, like being president of a private law firm. I do like to be the boss.
Did you consider returning to L.A. after law school? I always thought I’d go back...
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