Meredith B. Cabarrus

What aspect of being an attorney do you find most rewarding and why?

The most rewarding part of being an attorney is finding practical solutions to complex challenges. I love diving into a client’s unique issue and figuring out the most effective path forward—one that not only resolves the legal matter but also supports their bigger business goals. My approach is always about making things work for the client, not complicating issues just for the sake of it. Helping clients move past legal hurdles so they can focus on growing their business is what makes this work truly fulfilling.

How do you build strong relationships with your colleagues and clients?

I believe strong relationships start with being genuine. Whether I’m working with colleagues or clients, I bring openness, positivity, and authenticity to every interaction. I want people to feel comfortable and confident when they work with me, knowing that I have their best interests at heart. By building trust and fostering real connections, I create partnerships that feel less like business transactions and more like teamwork.

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

I take great pride in both my work as an attorney and my involvement in the Sudbury Garden Club. Helping clients navigate complex legal matters is deeply fulfilling, but I also find a sense of balance and joy in tending to my community through gardening and design. Whether I’m crafting solutions for a client or nurturing green spaces, I value every opportunity to make a meaningful, lasting impact.

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

Juggling a legal career and raising two teenage boys is a constant balancing act, and honestly, some days feel more organized than others. Life is unpredictable—there are deadlines to meet, homework to check, laundry to wash, and the never-ending question of what’s for dinner.

I try to set boundaries between work and family, but it doesn’t always go perfectly. I remind myself to focus on what truly matters—making time for a laugh with my kids, finding a few quiet moments in the garden, or just accepting that some days will be messy. Leaning on my support system of family, friends, and colleagues makes all the difference, and I’ve learned to embrace (or at least accept) the chaos, find joy where I can, and give myself grace along the way.

Have you faced any unique challenges as a woman attorney? How have you overcome them?

Absolutely—being a female attorney comes with its own set of challenges, particularly when dealing with male colleagues who may not take their female counterparts seriously.  Male attorneys can sometimes use patronizing behavior as a subtle form of control, undermining female attorneys by disguising condescension as “helpfulness” or “guidance.”

Overcoming these challenges takes a combination of confidence, persistence, and strategic awareness. I focus on letting my work speak for itself, asserting my expertise without hesitation, and addressing dismissive behavior when needed. Building strong professional relationships with colleagues who recognize and respect my contributions has been key. Having trusted allies—both male and female—creates a supportive network that actively challenges outdated biases and fosters a more inclusive environment.

These moments can be frustrating, but they also push me to stay focused, keep improving, and prove my expertise through my work. Every challenge helps me grow, refine my skills, and strengthen my commitment to success.

What is your favorite meal to cook?

I love cooking, but if I had to pick a favorite meal to make, it would be one where someone else does the cleanup—it makes everything that much more delicious!