When you combine a zeal for women’s advocacy and philosophy and throw in some courtroom expertise, you get Sheri L. Pizzi.

“I initially pursued a legal career because it seemed like a perfect synthesis of two of my passions during college – women’s advocacy and philosophy,” she said.

“I’ve noticed that it’s still difficult for some of my female peers to actually ask for business. It’s something that doesn’t come naturally for some women. I think it’s a skill that has to be developed,” she said.

For those at Taylor Duane Barton & Gilman LLP, where Pizzi has been developing her skills, she already has produced some impressive highlights.

For instance, Pizzi obtained a jury verdict in favor of a surgeon in a case alleging ventricular damage as a result of emergency cardiac surgery; she secured an arbitration award in favor of a national hotel chain sued for age and gender discrimination; and she successfully defended a retailer in a federal court employment action brought by a terminated worker.

“What is striking about Ms. Pizzi – and what sets her apart from other attorneys – is the exemplary passion and unyielding integrity she brings to the cases she handles,” said Andria Coletta, a partner at the firm, who nominated Pizzi for this award. “She takes the high road and is consistently fair but firm in representing clients. Her professionalism in and out of court is unwavering,”

Coletta said Pizzi routinely handles high-exposure, complex civil-litigation matters. She concentrates her trial practice on health care professional-liability issues, with a particular emphasis on nursing-home litigation, as well as employment law. Pizzi, Coletta said, is as adept at litigating cases as she is counseling clients out of court on risk-avoidance issues.