Lori Wisniewski Azzara, 41, Cohen Seglias Pallas Greenhall & Furman, Pittsburgh
Job title: Partner
Practice area: Construction and commercial litigation
Law school and year of graduation: Duquesne University School of Law, 2006
How long have you been at the firm? 17 years
What was your criteria in selecting your current firm? I had a clear set of criteria in mind when I chose Cohen Seglias. As a newly minted attorney fresh off passing the bar, I knew I wanted to continue honing my skills in construction law—an area I had developed an interest in while working at a construction litigation firm during law school. That’s what initially drew me to Cohen Seglias, but beyond that, I was attracted to the idea of a firm that gave me the opportunity to focus on a specific area of law and become a true master of my craft.
Were you an associate at another firm before joining your present firm? If so, which one and how long were you there? I was at Jones Gregg Creehan & Gerace for 2 months and worked there during my third year of law school.
What do you think was the deciding point for the firm in making you partner? Was it your performance on a specific case? A personality trait? Making connections with the right people? I strongly believe that my partnership with the firm was a result of my unwavering commitment to its growth and development. My strategic focus on expanding the firm and its client base west of Pennsylvania, coupled with my dedication to providing exceptional service to our existing clients, played a pivotal role in my promotion. I eagerly accepted the challenges and often long hours needed to grow my practice and contribute to the firm’s continued growth across the country. Ultimately, I believe this ability to consistently attract and maintain new clients, coupled with my sustained commitment to the firm’s success, including my leadership with the firm’s Women’s Initiative, were the key attributes that led to my partnership.