Yladrea Drummond went from being “team no care about the law" to becoming a highly successful trial attorney and solo firm owner in Maryland and DC. She openly shares the grit required to get barred after a seven-year journey, how she transitioned her practice from family law to dominating criminal defense, and the non-negotiable value of complete autonomy that running her own firm provides. This conversation is a raw, honest look at the transition from legal disappointment to becoming a respected "big dog in court" who is truly building a legacy

LAWYER SIDE HUSTLES

While Yladrea is a self-proclaimed "workhorse" focused on the rapid expansion and day-to-day operations of her successful trial firm, she also acknowledges the importance of creative outlets that serve as a side interest and a form of therapy. Her personal hustle is in the realm of writing, specifically fiction, which is a powerful creative counterbalance to the high-stress demands of her criminal defense practice.

Although the fiction novel was ultimately shelved, Yladrea recognizes her love for writing remains strong. She notes that if she were to pursue a writing project now, after achieving success in her firm, she would aim to share her professional expertise in a non-traditional format.

LISTEN TO LEARN

• How to protect your peace and stay grounded in high-pressure legal roles
• What it looks like to lead authentically, even in corporate settings
• Why saying “yes” to rest is essential for longevity in the legal field

WE ALSO DISCUSS

• The pressures of overachievement and burnout in law
• Black joy, healing, and the power of community
• Redefining success beyond titles and traditional career paths

Partnership: Did you know that children as young as 10 can be prosecuted as adults in Pennsylvania? 

You Are A Lawyer has partnered with YSRP, the Youth Sentencing and Re-Entry Project, to bring awareness to their fight to keep young people out of adult prisons and to advocate for youth lifers. 

Visit YSRP.org to support this cause. Thank you.