TIDA Member Spotlight

The TIDA Member Spotlight will feature one member each month. The spotlighted member will share responses to interesting questions and non-work related photos to build connections among new and seasoned members. Anyone may propose a member to be spotlighted. The committee will alternate each month between industry and legal professionals to increase engagement among our organization. Members can nominate themselves or another member to be featured by sending your recommendation to Megan Early-Soppa, Member Communications Committee Chair.

June 2023

Julie Brennan, Pion, Nerone, Girman, Winslow & Smith, P.C.

I am native to Western Pennsylvania.  I grew up around family, construction workers (home construction business), farm animals (we had cows, goats and pigs – a LOT of them), and heavy machinery, on a farm in an otherwise suburban area of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.  I no longer live on a farm, and I really miss having pigs!  I have been married for 11 years to my wonderful husband, Justin – he is also an attorney.  We have two boys: Marek is 8, and Nolan is 5. 

How long have you been a member of TIDA and why is it important to you to be a member?

I joined TIDA in December 2021, and I have been extremely active ever since!  I think the collaboration TIDA provides between industry members, claim representatives/insurers, and attorneys is extremely valuable as new issues face the industry on an ongoing basis.

If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be? Why?

If I could collaborate with anyone, I have to take the sentimental route here and say my father.  He passed very suddenly 9 years ago, and I didn’t get enough time to collaborate with him and gain enough of his humility, selflessness, and wisdom.  

To date, what has been the most memorable case you have been involved? Why?

A landslide case involving a residential community with 47 homes.  I represented a defendant for 9 years.  Over that time we had one federal trial, multiple appeals, and an inordinate number of legal and procedural issues in addition to more than 50 depositions, inspections, etc.  The case was still pending when I transitioned to a new firm more than 4 years ago.  That case taught me a lot about being an advocate and how to practice law.

What advice would give to your 25-year old self?

I really struggled with this answer!   At 25, and for too many years thereafter, I stayed loyal to an employer that undervalued me.  I would tell my 25 year old self to advocate for myself and make the transition I eventually made because there are people out there who will value you, promote you and give you or let you create your own opportunities. 

What talent would others be surprised that you have?

I am excellent at home construction projects.  When I have the time (which I don’t anymore!), I can do everything except plumbing (bad experience trying to replace pipes - I call the professionals when it comes to plumbing work).  I have an impressive saw and tool collection, and I know how to use them! 

Past Member Spotlights

2023

May
April
March
February
January