Lightfoot Attorney Spotlight for Amie Vague
September 20, 2021
Why did you want to become a lawyer?
I like solving problems. Being presented with a complicated question with no clear answer and having to reason through it to develop a solution is very rewarding. And, of course, I’m competitive. I like putting in the work with a team and being proud of the outcome we’ve accomplished (especially if that outcome is a victory over our opponents).
Is there a piece of advice you could offer to someone looking to pursue a similar career?
If you want to be a litigator, look for opportunities to develop your legal writing and oral advocacy skills. These are often overlooked in law school so you have to seek them out. Join the moot court or trial advocacy team.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Don’t get three dogs. I didn’t listen to this advice and now I have two Great Danes and a Sheltie. They are all adorable, but my entire wardrobe is covered in dog hair.
What is one thing you’re exceptionally good at?
Staying calm under pressure. My wife teases me that I don’t have emotions, which is not true, but (usually) I am good at keeping my emotions in check and not letting them dictate my response in a given situation.
What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned so far in your career?
A friend and partner at Lightfoot told me that as litigators, we have to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Our job often involves uncomfortable situations – hard decisions, complicated problems, and tough conversations with clients, opposing counsel, and judges. To be successful, you need to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. That stuck with me and has helped me navigate the ups and downs of our profession.
How would you describe your time at Lightfoot using one word?
Uncomfortable (see answer above).
What is your “Lightfoot superlative?”
Most likely to be dragging my spouse away from a good Lightfoot party.
What is something you would tell your 18 year-old self?
It gets better. When I was younger, I was afraid of being true to myself—afraid of what it would mean for my family, friends, and career. I would tell my younger self it is all worth it. You’ll find your people and your place.
Who is one of your role models?
The WOLF Pack (Women of Lightfoot Franklin). I can’t narrow it down to one because every woman at Lightfoot is a role model to me. In a male-dominated profession, I am proud to look around at Lightfoot and see so many impressive women forging a path in firm leadership, community outreach, and professional excellence. That I get to call these women my friends is the cherry on top.
