What other professional organizations do you belong to and how have these helped to shape your career?
I am currently a member of the American Bar Association, which has been instrumental in expanding my professional network, meeting new people, and generating business opportunities. Being part of the ABA also provides me with the chance to engage in meaningful volunteer work, including initiatives that support children and individuals in need.
If you could share one piece of advice with your law student-self, what would it be?
I would tell my law student self to be patient and trust the process. Every action, connection, and client interaction I engage in now will shape my future career. I’d advise her to focus on networking and fully utilize the opportunities law school offers, both academically and in building relationships. There’s no need to rush; good things, including professional growth, take time. Finally, I’d remind her to stay prepared, continue learning, and be kind to herself throughout the journey.
How long have you been involved with the ABA and in what capacities?
I've been deeply involved with the International Law Section of the ABA for over 10 years, participating in various capacities across multiple committees. I have the privilege of serving as Vice Chair for Communications for the International M&A Committee and the Seasoned Lawyers Interest Network. Additionally, I have served as Co-Chair of the Lawyers Abroad Committee for several periods, including the current one. I also lead the outreach program for the Lawyers Abroad Committee, a program that was honored as the best one in 2024. Beyond that, I’m committed to mentoring young lawyers and have been part of the organizing committee for the mentoring breakfast hosted by the Seasoned Lawyers and Young Lawyers Interest Networks for the past three years.
As a student of law is this where you thought you’d end up? If no, what did you see yourself doing as a lawyer?
As a law student, I envisioned myself doing international work or becoming a diplomat. While my career didn’t unfold exactly as I had imagined, it led me to something quite similar. Living and working in six different countries has given me a deep sense of international work, albeit in a different capacity. It’s not the exact path I pictured during law school, but it has turned out to be even better than I anticipated.
What would you describe as a challenge or opportunity in cross-border practice?
A significant challenge in cross-border practice is navigating the complexities of differing legal systems, regulations, and cultural norms across jurisdictions. Each country may have its own set of rules and procedures, which can create hurdles in areas such as contract enforcement, dispute resolution, and compliance with local laws. Understanding these nuances and ensuring that legal strategies are tailored to each specific jurisdiction is crucial but can be resource-intensive and time-consuming.
On the flip side, this challenge also presents a substantial opportunity. For those who can successfully navigate these complexities, cross-border practice opens the door to a broader client base and the chance to work on high-stakes, international matters. It allows legal professionals to position themselves as experts in global markets, offering clients comprehensive services that address their needs across multiple jurisdictions. Additionally, cross-border work fosters the development of a diverse skill set and a deeper understanding of international business dynamics, which can be highly valuable in today’s interconnected world.
What hurdles have you faced in reaching where you are today?
One of the biggest hurdles I’ve faced in reaching where I am today has been the constant moving and the need to reinvent myself in each new location. Each move required me to adapt quickly, both professionally and personally. Learning to navigate and understand different cultures as part of my working and social environment has been challenging, but it has also been incredibly rewarding. These experiences have taught me resilience and the importance of cultural sensitivity, which have become invaluable assets in my career.
You cover a wide range of legal areas in your practice. Which is your favorite? Why?
I graduated as a lawyer from the Universidad Católica Argentina in 1994 and hold two master’s degrees—one in International Relations from the Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, and another in International Business and Law (LLM) from Boston University. As part of an expat family, I’ve had the unique experience of living in several countries, having moved internationally six times. This international journey introduced me to a less traditional branch of the legal field—marketing for law firms and business development. I spent several years working in-house as a marketing director for a Central American law firm. In 2017, I followed my passion and founded a legal marketing consulting firm, dedicated to helping lawyers grow and effectively promote their work.
If you could do anything else professionally, what would it be?
I would write a book and continue mentoring young professionals. I’d also focus on helping underprivileged kids achieve their dream of studying in college.
What advice do you have for young lawyers interested in your field?
For young lawyers interested in marketing for law firms, my advice is to focus on several key areas:
- Networking: Build and nurture a strong professional network. Relationships are crucial in marketing and business development, so engage with industry peers and potential clients both online and in person.
- Personal Branding: Develop and maintain a strong personal brand. Your reputation and visibility can greatly impact your career, so make sure to showcase your expertise and achievements in a professional and consistent manner.
- Business Development: Gain skills in business development strategies. Understand how to identify and create new business opportunities for the firm and learn how to position the firm effectively in the market.
- Continuous Learning: Stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in marketing and law. The field is always evolving, and ongoing education will help you stay ahead.
By focusing on these areas, you’ll be well-positioned to make a significant impact in the field of legal marketing.
What's your secret for work-life balance?
My secret to achieving work-life balance has been mastering prioritization. I focus on distinguishing between what is truly important versus what is merely urgent. By aligning my efforts with my core priorities, I ensure that I dedicate time and energy to what matters most, both professionally and personally.
What is the most rewarding part of your current role?
The most rewarding part of my current role is working on something I’m truly passionate about. As the Managing Partner and founder of CeBarrero, a legal marketing firm, I oversee daily communications and marketing initiatives for our clients across Latin America. My role involves leading a dedicated team that advises law firms on their marketing and business development strategies. We work together to help firms create and refine their brand identity, develop comprehensive marketing strategies, and implement communication efforts aimed at driving business growth. Our focus is on enhancing our clients' visibility and reputation in the legal sector, ensuring they achieve their business objectives through effective marketing and strategic planning.
What are your favorite books-personal and/or professionally oriented?
Any book by Isabel Allende or Gabriel García Márquez is a great read. Professionally, I recommend "Best Practices in Law Firm Business Development and Marketing" by Deborah Farone and "Blue Ocean Strategy" by W. Chan Kim and Renée Mauborgne.
In one word, why do you do what you do?
Passion
