Rebecca Manzi Kathleen Martinez did not let herself be discouraged by those who underestimated her and opened her own law firm staffed by women
@attorneymartinez/Instagram
Immigration attorney Kathleen Martinez has stormed the web with her fresh style and a new wave into the legal profession. Based in Texas, Kathleen runs a predominantly female-led law firm, which reflects her vibrant personality and her commitment to breaking gender stereotypes in the workplace.
Inspired by Elle Woods from Legally Blonde, Kathleen became a symbol of female empowerment, proving that style and competence can coexist. She graduated from Mount St. Mary’s University and later her Juris Doctor from the Thomas Jefferson School of Law.
But all was not smooth sailing in her career. Her male bosses underestimated her and criticized her for wearing provocative attire and even requested that she make coffee. This experience galvanized her into opening her own law firm so that women did not have to compromise on their personalities to work in an office environment.
A virtual agency to serve immigrants
In 2020, Kathleen founded Martinez Immigration, a virtual company that deals in immigration law. This company is focused on bringing families together and providing the most accessible services to immigrants. Most of her team comprises women, many of whom are immigrants or mothers.
In addition to her legal work, Kathleen leverages her TikTok platform, where she has nearly 2 million followers, to educate the public on topics such as green card options and immigrant rights. Social media has amplified her image as the “real-life Elle Woods” by sharing moments of her professional and personal life: glamorous outfits, her pink office, and her matching pink Maserati.
A serious advocate for change
Though her web presence appears somewhat light-hearted, Kathleen is quite serious about her work. She, too, in her own small manner, is contributing to a shift in perception about women in the legal profession. Her example has encouraged literally dozens of women to apply for positions in her firm.
In return, she gets hundreds of grateful messages every day from girls who consider her as a role model. Kathleen is still spreading the word: one of inclusion, strength, and determination that even today, change is possible, even in a traditionally conservative field.
