Abigail S. LaFontan

What drew you to focus your practice on commercial real estate law? 

I want to work in an area of law that allows me to touch the community. Commercial real estate, especially at the level that Dain Torpy practices, inherently involves community development. We have the opportunity to be familiar with the local community, to be involved in it, and to counsel our clients to make educated, intelligent development decisions based on our knowledge of the area and our understanding of how our neighbors hope to see the community change and improve.

Are there any particular causes or issues within or outside of the legal profession that you are passionate about or actively involved in?

Personally and professionally, I am an environmentalist. As I entered law school, I thought I would become an environmental lawyer. I quickly learned that, while some lawyers practice environmental law exclusively, some of the most valuable change comes from environmentalist minded professionals in other industries. I look forward to embracing the avenues of environmentally positive change that I can pursue in commercial real estate.

How do you balance your professional and personal life, and what strategies do you use to maintain well-being and avoid burnout?

While I am quite new to balancing a professional and personal life, I can offer one piece of advice. Sometimes, in order to maintain boundaries, and especially as a woman, I find I have to be less apologetic. Women tend to do much more than men, and men often find it psychologically easier to rest or take time for personal improvement. I am learning to stop apologizing, or at least, to stop feeling guilty, when I choose to respect my own boundaries.

What qualities do you think make a great leader?

As a new attorney, some of the most impressive and successful leaders I have encountered all embody similar qualities. They listen attentively, and often speak less than those around them. They genuinely believe that the opinions of those they lead are valuable to the shared mission. They provide guidance as to the mindset and concept behind the business while ensuring their colleagues maintain autonomy and agency.

What is your favorite meal to cook? 

I love to cook; my favorite meal is the newest creation I invent on a weeknight after work.

Where is your favorite place to take a vacation?

I love Maine. Every year my family spends time in Boothbay harbor, a small seaside town midway up the coast.