Clarisse Hui-Ru Lam – On stories and serendipity
A lawyer shaped by a love of narrative, guided by chance encounters, and grounded in purpose. Clarisse brings thoughtful care, integrity, and curiosity to every aspect of her practice—driven by the belief that every case is, at its heart, a story worth telling well.
How did you start down this career path?
A love for stories, a bit of luck, and a bit lot of help from others. I’ve always loved telling and reading stories. I knew this much (and not much else) when it came time to enrol in a course at university. With a little help from my parents, this guided me to take a chance on law. A serendipitous chance upon a Reddit post advertising a paralegal role with a colourful crew lit the path I’m now on.
What inspires you in your role/industry? Why?
The little things.
I am inspired by brilliance – my colleagues’ attention to detail in the pursuit of excellence. A creative and nuanced argument. A well written (e.g., concise and effective) email.
I am inspired by integrity – Not compromising professional duties or promises to one’s self.
I am inspired by understanding – Practitioners who listen and exercise care in judging others, and judge themselves (self-awareness!).
I am inspired by care – To show care is to show gratitude, and I am endlessly grateful for my mentor, Jahan Kalantar, who is amazing at this, who really sees and acknowledges clients and colleagues.
I feel very blessed to work with the people I do, and am inspired to embody these characteristics for others, and hopefully inspire them like I have been inspired.
What's your approach to customer service that separates you from the rest?
“One step further” - Anticipating their needs and being there when it counts. This commitment is not unique, but it is my promise to them.
How do you innovate and stay ahead of industry trends?
I am so fortunate to be surrounded by colleagues who are amazing at this. My firm Executive Law Group is are building a team whose goal is to stay at the forefront of legal technology and trends, so we can leverage these for our clients and staff.
What is the toughest challenge you've faced in your role? How did you overcome it?
Being a partner of a boutique firm demands everything from you. Being able to continue to deliver, to keep going – it’s a fulfilling challenge that I overcome one day, one case at a time.
What are some of your goals for the next 5 years?
Another Lawyers Weekly award. Kidding - or not?
My goals have been the same for a long time. I don’t think they’ll change in the next 5 years.
- Keep doing my best.
- Leave things better than I found them.
- Build a firm I would want to work in.
- Keep my priorities and perspective.
- Make those I love, proud.
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