Deborah M. Field

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Deborah M. Field

Partner, Morris & Morris Attorneys

Years in current role: 17

What do you enjoy most about practicing personal injury law?

I most enjoy helping people. Personal injury law involves guiding clients during very difficult and vulnerable times in their lives and giving them a voice. To me, doing so is very gratifying. I also love the courtroom; coming from a large family of lawyers (on both sides!) being a litigator is in my genes. Unlike some other areas, personal injury is a field where litigators actually try cases.

What has been the biggest challenge you’ve dealt with over the past year?

In law, keeping my cases moving forward, in the face of all the closures. This was especially true for cases that do not lend themselves readily to virtual depositions; that was a big challenge. In life, having my kids miss important milestones due to COVID restrictions, like my daughter’s graduation from high school. I have always taught my kids that flexibility is the key to life, and that was definitely tested this past year.

What do you see as the biggest changes in the legal industry in the next 3-5 years?

As with everything in our world, I believe there will be a permanent shift toward handling many aspects of the job virtually. It remains to be seen whether this will be a positive change, but the change is here to stay.

What community organizations do you support as a volunteer and why?

I am on the Board of Directors of Medical Motor Service and have been for many years. It is a wonderful organization that provides safe and affordable transportation to individuals in need, from young people to the elderly. I am also on the Board of Directors for the Foundation of the Monroe County Bar. This is the charitable arm of the bar association which provides funding to many important and worthwhile programs in our community.

What are you most looking forward to doing as COVID restrictions ease?

Hanging out with family and friends, and travel! And returning to in-person meetings, depositions and court appearances and getting away from the screen.