Meet Tyson & Mendes’ First Female Equity Partner

Meet Tyson & Mendes’ First Female Equity Partner

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In 2018, Tyson & Mendes will shine a spotlight on our female attorneys to celebrate their hard work, achievements, and contributions to the firm.  This month, Mina Miserlis joined Bob Tyson and Pat Mendes as the firm’s third Equity Partner since its inception in 2002.  We could not think of a better candidate to kick off our series!

Based in our San Diego office, Mina leads our complex trial team, focusing on complex personal injury matters.  Her invaluable leadership, tenacity, and spirit inspire everyone in the firm. We could not be more grateful to have her on our team.  Read on to learn more about Mina and the advice she has for other female attorneys and professionals – Q&A style.

T&M: What drew you to Tyson & Mendes?

MM: I interviewed with both Bob and Pat, just days before the pivotal Howell decision came down. It was apparent they were leaders in the field, and running a very different type of firm that I wanted to be a part of.

T&M: What is the strongest distinguishing factor about Tyson & Mendes that sets us apart from other firms?

MM: Dynamism – we work very hard to provide unparalleled service and unbeatable results, and to be on the cutting edge of what we do in an environment of collaboration and respectfulness.

T&M: What has been your favorite case to work on?

MM: It is hard to narrow to just one… I try to fully dedicate myself to whichever case I am working on at the moment in order to obtain the best possible result for the client.

T&M: What is the accomplishment or win you are most proud of?

MM: Obtaining a verdict of $26K in an admitted liability case in which the plaintiffs were seeking damages over $30M. It was less than 1 percent of the plaintiffs’ demand, and a huge win for our team.

T&M: What is the biggest challenge you face as a practicing female attorney?

MM: I see myself first and foremost as an attorney who also happens to be a woman – so the biggest challenge is the possibility that some see me as specifically a “female attorney,” before seeing me as an attorney.

T&M: What singular piece of advice would you give a fellow female professional – in the legal profession or not?

MM: The same advice I would give anyone, and that is to try to emulate qualities that you admire in others. I am lucky to be surrounded by colleagues, family, and loved ones who exemplify the following values: Work hard for justice; be determined, diligent and disciplined; and last but not least, be grateful, generous, and kind.

T&M: If you were not a lawyer, what would you be?

MM: In a completely opposite world, a contemporary dancer, because I have always admired how they combine strength and grace.

T&M: What is the last concert you went to? Last song you downloaded?

MM: My last concert was The Black Keys at Soma. I listen to a lot of music while I’m running or driving long distances for work, so it can vary quite a bit. Some regulars on rotation right now are Foo Fighters, Beck, U2, and Mondo Cosmo.

T&M: Which five people would you chose to have dinner with – living or dead?

MM: Ghandi, my Greek grandmother, Susan B. Anthony, Nelson Mandela, and Xenia of St. Petersburg.

T&M: What is your idea of an ideal weekend?

MM: San Diego sunshine, a long run, and the company of loved ones and friends.

T&M: What do you have streaming regularly on your TV?

MM: Lots of comedy! My favorite thing to watch after a long day is something that makes me laugh.

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