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Many students do not realize how many different paths a law degree can lead to until they hear directly from practicing attorneys.
Renée Nordstrand-Black is a Santa Barbara personal injury attorney at NordstrandBlack PC. On January 20, 2026, Renée was honored to speak at the University of California, Santa Barbara as part of a Women Lawyers Panel hosted by the UCSB Women in Law Club in collaboration with the Environmental Law Club. The event brought together seven female attorneys practicing in diverse areas of law, including personal injury, environmental law, civil rights, employment law, and business law.
The panel was designed to give students practical insight into what it truly means to be a lawyer, beyond textbooks and theory.
Practical Guidance for Future Lawyers
During the discussion, Renée and the other panelists spoke candidly about:
- The realities of practicing law
- Navigating different stages of life and career
- Choosing a practice area
- Balancing professional and personal responsibilities
- Navigating gender dynamics in the legal profession
- Building resilience in a demanding profession
Students were encouraged to ask questions in a positive, uplifting environment and left feeling informed, inspired, and prepared.
Renée was proud to share her experience practicing personal injury law in Santa Barbara and advocating for individuals and families who have been seriously injured. She discussed the responsibility that comes with representing clients during some of the most difficult periods of their lives and the importance of thorough preparation, clear communication, and integrity.
Women Supporting Women in the Legal Profession
The panel highlighted the importance of mentorship and representation in the legal field. Hearing women from different backgrounds and practice areas share their stories provided students with a broader understanding of the extensive possibilities within the profession for anyone with legal career aspirations.
Students had the exciting chance to hear from:
- Renee Nordstrand-Black: Founder, Personal Injury Attorney at NordstrandBlack, PC
- Natalie Mutz: Attorney at Fauver, Large, Archbald & Spray LLP
- Jennifer Karapetian: Assistant District Attorney for Santa Barbara County
- Diane Byun: Class action attorney
- Elise Cossart-Daly:, Founder and Principal Attorney at Cossart-Daly Law, A.P.C., Civil Rights and Environmental Justice Law
- Kristin Larson: Founding Partner at Tellus Law Group, Environmental Law
Each attorney offered a unique perspective, reflecting different career paths and professional experiences, and highlighting their inspiring stories as powerful women in the legal field.
Giving Back to the Santa Barbara Community
As a former Guacho herself, Renée believes that education and mentorship are essential to strengthening the legal community and supporting aspiring attorneys. Speaking with UCSB students was an opportunity to provide practical advice and honest insight into the profession while encouraging thoughtful, and powerful leadership in the next generation of attorneys.
NordstrandBlack PC is proud to encourage and inspire local students who are exploring careers in law, support rising women in the field, and continue to give back to the wonderful Santa Barbara community.
Speak With a Trusted Personal Injury Attorney in Santa Barbara
If you have been injured in an accident due to someone else’s negligent behavior, contact NordstrandBlack PC. We have the right mix of experience and resources to pursue the compensation you need to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses.
NordstrandBlack PC has a Superb 10.0 Avvo rating, and Renee J. Nordstrand-Black was awarded an AV Preeminent Rating by Martindale-Hubbell, the highest possible rating in both legal ability and ethical standards based on a peer review rating process.
Call (805) 962-2022 to schedule your free consultation today.