From Biglaw to In-House Counsel: Dina Segal Shares Insights on Career Transition and Work-Life Balance

Dina Segal, the Chief Legal Officer at Gusto, recently shared insights regarding her journey from Biglaw to in-house counsel, along with her experiences as a working mother, in an interview at Above the Law.

Segal emphasized the importance of understanding the business you’re working in when transitioning to an in-house legal role. She also highlighted the significance of building trust, and the development of innovative and impactful solutions.

As a board member of the SunLaw Group, she talked about the challenges faced by women within the legal profession. SunLaw Group is an organization dedicated to supporting women in in-house counsel roles.

When it comes to maintaining work-life balance, Segal advises against daily evaluations. Instead, she suggests considering balance over a longer period. She is a strong advocate for mental health within the legal industry, and encourages professionals to practice self-forgiveness during particularly challenging days.

Dina’s journey to her in-house position, the progression of her career within this role, and the challenges she faced along the way, can serve as useful insights for those seeking a similar path. She also shared her experience in digitizing the activities of SunLaw Group during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Segal believes in being fully present, regardless of whether you’re at your workplace or with your family. She also talked about the lasting impact of small, yet meaningful moments with children. She encourages aspiring lawyers to identify their fundamental driver or passion and to keep the bigger picture in mind, especially during trying times.

Above the Law hosts The Jabot podcast, where this interview was conducted. The platform focuses on challenges faced by diverse populations within the legal profession.