Although she began her legal career as a general business litigator, Carla A. Reeves was drawn to the people-oriented practice of employment law. Today, as a member of Goulston & Storrs’ employment group, she focuses on management-side employment litigation, counseling, and government and internal investigations. She is also an active member of firm committees and external organizations. Below is Q&A with Carla, as conducted by Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly featured in the Excellence in the Law Awards honoree program book, which highlights Carla's recognition as an "Up & Comer" in the legal industry. Click here to view a PDF of the profile.

Q. What do you consider your biggest achievement as a lawyer to date?

A. My biggest achievements have been my ability to become a trusted resource and thought partner for clients early on in my career, the impact I have made through my practice, and the pro bono work I have done on behalf of individuals and organizations in need and my involvement in the community.   

Q. What is the best piece of professional advice you ever received?

A. The best advice I have received is that my career is a marathon, not a sprint, and that developing a “personal board of directors” or group of advisors is an important part of the process.  

Q. How has the pandemic affected your life and career?

A. Like many other working parents, I had to adjust to working remotely while also caring for young children. The pandemic blurred the lines between my personal life and work, and also contributed to a new set of work-related demands associated with the impact of COVID-19 on workplaces throughout the country. This experience has forced me to rethink my approach to work, setting appropriate boundaries and ensuring that I am fully present for my family. It has also reminded me of the importance of finding and sticking with a routine that works for me and includes attention to my own wellbeing. 

Q. What’s the most important thing you’ve learned since you started practicing law?

A. My experience practicing law has underscored the importance of effective listening — to clients, colleagues, judges, adversaries, etc. So much of the work we do requires absorbing information, analyzing it, and using our best judgment to help our clients and colleagues navigate complex issues. 

Q. Why did you decide to become a lawyer?

A. I decided to become a lawyer because I am drawn to advocacy and engaging in work that involves identifying problems and working with others to find creative, practical solutions to address them.