Why I Lawyer: Q&A with Ray Williams

Why did you decide to become a lawyer?

When I was finished playing football, I decided becoming an agent for professional athletes was a job I could excel in. I knew I needed an advanced degree for this role and decided – because I graduated undergraduate school with a business degree – that a law degree would add more to my resume. I did not know any lawyers, nor did I have anyone to talk to about law school or what it was to be a lawyer. Law school was a new world for me, and my eyes were opened to a fascinating profession. I became a lawyer instead of an agent in part because of the passion I developed during law school for litigation.

How has being a lawyer helped you in other areas of your life?

Growing up in one of the poorest neighborhoods in Rhode Island and attending one of the most prestigious high schools in the state because of my football abilities, I was always aware of the disparities between low-income and higher-income groups. It was interesting to hear the discussions of people who “felt” poor because they could not spend a week at the beach versus those in my community, like myself, who relied on government breakfast and lunch at school for meals. As a lawyer, I have been able to provide advice, insight and thoughtful opinions to other lawyers, as well as to those in lower-income communities, like the community of my childhood, to help bridge the gap in understanding between these groups.

What part of your practice are you most passionate about?

With the recent rise of digital healthcare, I’ve had the chance to couple my passion for the life sciences with my passion for diversity, equity, inclusion and access. In essence, how can we use digital healthcare to decrease the disparity in healthcare preparedness and treatment in lower income and rural communities? Working with our pharma/medical device clients and healthcare organizations, I'm excited to see where this will lead.

How do you develop a collaborative approach with your clients?

Collaboration can be taught and learned, but there must be an innate desire to collaborate. I believe collaboration with my clients starts and ends with listening. What are they asking me to do, and how can I do that in a way that benefits them and the firm?