2021 HEALTH LAW Q&A

Mary Elizabeth “Mary Beth” Sherwin

Kaufman & Canoles PC, Norfolk

Title: Member

Other legal specialties: Some trusts and estate litigation and guardianship/conservatorship support

Education: Bachelor’s degree, Wellesley College; law degree, William & Mary School of Law

Children: I am the mom to my two littles, Oliver (7th grade) and Carolina (4th grade) — best job ever!

First job as a lawyer: Law clerk to the Hon. Rebecca Beach Smith, chief judge at the time,
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia 

Fan of: Diversity and inclusion

Recently read book: “Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption,” by Bryan Stevenson — everyone should read it.

Career mentors: My dad, Alvin Powers Anderson. We practiced law together for a number of years, prior to his passing in 2008. He placed great emphasis on genuinely caring for your clients, and I learned a lot from him in how best to balance practice and family (which can sometimes be friends, the family you choose for yourself).

What unique issues is the pandemic presenting for attorneys? While virtual technology is wonderful to stay connected and continue to move your case forward, sometimes there is no substitute for being physically present with your client. Some clients have relocated during this time and significant travel is required to see them! In addition, courts (and trials) are very different from what we remember pre-pandemic, and lots of adjustments are required to be made by counsel.