Lucy Lopez

Foreign Attorney

“Enjoy and appreciate the learning process while you are still new. Also, be committed to whatever work given to you - no matter how minor or big the task is. Everything that we do in the firm will contribute to helping our clients.”

 

Why did you decide to work in Japan?

I decided to work in Japan to push myself out of my comfort zone. Also, intellectual property law is interesting and Japan is one of the countries where intellectual property practice is thriving.

What might surprise people about working in SY?

Working in SY means working with a global and talented team. Foreign staff members come from different countries with different background, upbringing and culture. But such differences are not really a big deal as everyone here is friendly and accommodating.

Can you tell us what you like most about your co-workers?

I always say I am amazed by how my co-workers can manage their time efficiently and still be able to provide the required output. They are extremely hard-working and committed to the work that they do. Also, my co-workers were very helpful when I was still adjusting to the new environment - both in working at the firm and in living in Osaka.

Do you feel like you're having an impact directly on the clients that you work for?

Absolutely. I feel like we get to accomplish solving our clients' needs whenever we get to answer legal queries or problems from our clients or even when we reply to daily correspondence.

What are the challenging or difficult aspects of your work?

Learning quickly and familiarizing yourself with the Japanese and other foreign laws is one of the challenging aspects in my work. But, there are always other members of the team who you can discuss with which is very helpful.

What is the most important thing that working at the Firm has taught you about yourself?

Working at the Firm has taught me that to always be humble and patient in working towards any goal. Working in a new and global environment is not always easy but if you really want to make it, you can.

What have been your 3 fondest leisure experiences in Japan?

Travelling in Hokkaido during summer.
Watching Miyako Odori (geisha show) in Kyoto.
Exploring nearby places around Osaka like Nara, Kyoto, Kobe.

I am looking forward to experience ...

Autumn and the changing colors of the trees! My home country is a tropical country with only two seasons so I am always looking forward to the changing seasons here in Japan.

What advice would you give a potential new colleague?

Enjoy and appreciate the learning process while you are still new. Also, be committed to whatever work given to you - no matter how minor or big the task is. Everything that we do in the firm will contribute to helping our clients.

Of all the adjectives floating in your mind, give us three that best describe your life in Japan?

Exciting. Colorful. Humbling. Nakakapukaw. Makulay. Mapagkumbaba.