Meet Jessica Carlos | Founder of JLC Law, APC

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jessica Carlos and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jessica, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
I am big believer that calculated risks are absolutely necessary for growth and success. I started my firm approximately one year ago out of necessity, and it’s been the biggest reward thus far. I never anticipated starting my own firm—always saying that it was going to be too much work, or too much liability, and I preferred working for someone else.

However, I quickly learned that when you only have to fall back on yourself, you push yourself to go harder and reach new levels of success. The irony is that everyone around me believed in me and knew I would thrive—and I think deep down, I knew I would too; or, I wouldn’t have started my own firm. I had been practicing as an attorney for 5 years and was managing all the cases on my own, bringing in new clients, actually training other associates, etc., but I was scared at the thought of not having a guaranteed salary. That fear held me back, until the salary stopped providing me the security it used to and they refused to give me a raise. I could have stayed, but I knew that if I was making them $600,000/year, that even if I made half of that on my own, I would still be better off. And luckily, the risk paid off.

Just like it did when I decided to continue my law school career, despite becoming unexpectedly pregnant the second semester of my first year. Being a new mom while simulatenously undergoing my most challenging education was risky. Big risk, big reward!

What should our readers know about your business?
My firm’s motto is “Our Strategic Advocacy is Your Advantage.” I aim to collaboratively work with my clients to obtain the best possible outcome, not just legally, but practically. I am a real person, and I myself am a coparent. My life experience with different family dynamics, and the divorce process in general makes me a better and more comprehensive attorney. I can plan for legal tactics, but also provide practical advice. I gain my clients’ trust by being honest—a trait that apparently does not exist amongst all attorneys. I always says I am not a “Yes attorney” that just tells them what they want to hear. As a result, my clients become the best referral service, and I have not had to pay for an advertising or seek new clients. My reputation speaks for itself, and I am forever grateful to those clients who have trusted me with their cases, with their families, and with what matters most.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Los Angeles is such a vibrant and diverse city! I am LA born and raised, and while I have lived in New York City and Madrid, LA will always be home. I am also a huge foodie and love introducing friends to new restaurants. If they are staying Downtown, I would suggest drinks and appetizers/small bites at Cara Cara or Perch—the rooftop views are phenomenal at sunset or for a view of the city lights at night. I would tell them to look up concerts or shows since there is always something going on in LA, and I personally love to listen to live music and dance. Sunset Tower Terrace Bar is great for brunch, and has such a classic vibe without being too fussy. The Getty or Getty Villa are fun day outings because they have wonderful outdoor spaces, as well as unique exhibitions in addition to classic art. Century City Mall is arguably one of the best shopping experiences in LA, with all the typical stores, plus higher end ones, and a variety of great restaurants. I love that it’s outdoor and has so much open space to enjoy a beautiful day. My favorite Mexican restaurant is technically in Westlake Village (not sure if that counts as LA proper still), but Los Agaves is an absolute treat! While the fires have made Malibu less accessible, el Matador beach is arguably the most Cabo-esque beach and does not get as crowded as Zuma. Lunch at Malibu Seafood after is a must!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I actually would like to thank my daughter, Natalia. She has been with me from the beginning of my law career, and has been the driving force behind all of my success. Law school was not initially what I had expected, and disillusioned with same, I was not sure I would continue this career. Then, I became pregnant with her and knew I needed to become a lawyer for her. To date, I strive to be the best in order to be a role model to her, but also provide her the best life possible as a single mom.

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