Pamela Carter: Shattering Boundaries and Fostering Inclusivity as Managing Partner at Quintairos, Prieto, Wood & Boyer, P.A.

Pamela W. Carter, with over 27 years of experience, is the Managing Partner at the office of Quintairos, Prieto, Wood & Boyer, P.A. She specializes in complex litigation and counseling in insurance, employment, transportation, and commercial litigation. Pamela has represented Fortune 500 clients, handled cases in various jurisdictions, and authored numerous publications on insurance coverage, DEI issues, and truck accident litigation.   

Before becoming a lawyer, Pamela pursued a television journalist and news anchor career in Lafayette, Louisiana. During her time as a reporter, while interviewing state legislators, they suggested she consider law school based on her insightful questions. After taking the LSAT, Pamela embarked on her legal career.   

Pamela practices in both federal and state courts in Louisiana and Texas, dealing with cases involving discrimination, harassment, complex disputes, and insurance claims. She has served as coordinating counsel for Louisiana asbestos and hurricane-related claims and is currently on the DRI Law Institute's Board. Pamela has also held leadership roles within the DRI, the American Bar Association, and the Louisiana Board of Governors.   

She genuinely enjoys her work as a lawyer and views it as a privilege. Pamela believes practicing law offers opportunities to help people and communities, and she appreciates the challenges of defending clients, analyzing situations, and seeing different perspectives.   

Quintairos, Prieto, Wood & Boyer, P.A . is the largest woman and minority-owned law firm in the nation, with over 400 lawyers practicing in areas such as immigration, intellectual property, construction, commercial litigation, and general litigation. The firm is spread across over 30 states and the Virgin Islands, with a majority of the partners being women and minorities. More than 50% of the offices are managed by women or minority lawyers, reflecting the nation's diverse legal landscape.   

Although Pamela does not handle criminal cases, she emphasizes that everyone deserves representation. She acknowledges that cases can change significantly as investigations progress, revealing new facts, evidence, and witnesses that can alter the perception of guilt or culpability.   

As the managing partner at a diverse law firm specializing in various practice areas, including insurance, employment, transportation, and commercial litigation, Pamela Carter's days are far from typical. Beginning as early as 6 am and extending until 6 pm or 7 pm, Pamela starts her day with a cup of coffee or tea before ensuring that all cases are handled properly. She responds to clients' inquiries within 24 hours and takes their matters seriously.   

Throughout the day, Pamela evaluates cases, checks deadlines, and ensures that clients' needs are met thoroughly. As an advisor and protector of their best interests, she constantly reviews cases and prepares them for the best possible outcomes. Her day may also involve attending court hearings (often held virtually), participating in depositions, and filing motions on behalf of her clients. Pamela embraces the challenges and skill development required to be a successful lawyer, always striving to improve.   

Pamela emphasizes that skill and ethical conduct are crucial in the legal profession. Contrary to the misconception that lawyers must be dishonest, a good lawyer must persuade the jury or judge to see their side as the correct outcome without distorting facts. They must do this by working creatively with the facts, finding supporting cases, statutes, codes, articles, and literature to bolster their position.   

A contributing author of Truck Accident Litigation, Pamela's chapter focuses on crafting opening statements and engaging the jury. This book serves as a litigator's guide for handling trucking accident cases and is published by the American Bar Association.   

Having represented Fortune 500 companies and policyholder clients, Pamela explains that one of the challenges in handling such cases is meeting their demands. The key challenge lies in determining what is truly important to the client, as they may not always express it upfront. To overcome this challenge, Pamela emphasizes the importance of asking questions and digging deep to understand the client's desired outcome.   

Additionally, it is essential to understand the dynamics of the client's company, their business, and the in-house management's direction. By comprehending what lies beneath the surface and the client's unspoken expectations, Pamela believes that legal professionals are more likely to achieve successful outcomes for their clients.   

Pamela is a passionate advocate for the Louisiana business community, frequently addressing issues such as diversity, equity, inclusion, and allyship on a national level. Pamela shares her insights and expertise to support the Louisiana business community by participating in panels and speaking at events with like-minded individuals and those with differing opinions. In doing so, she tackles their unique challenges and contributes to their growth and success through her legal practice.   

For young lawyers beginning their careers, Pamela offers invaluable advice. She emphasizes the importance of seeking training, continuously honing their skills, learning from experienced attorneys, and finding mentors. She also reminds them not to take things personally, to work hard, and be reliable, and dependable.   

Pamela advises young lawyers to trust themselves, be authentic in everything they do, and take every assignment seriously, regardless of its size. She underscores the need to meet deadlines and overperform while under promising. She encourages them to become the best version of themselves, acknowledging that not every day will be perfect but emphasizing the importance of learning from mistakes and moving forward.   

Driven by the understanding that practicing law is a privilege, Pamela is motivated daily by the sacrifices and challenges faced by those who came before her. This knowledge pushes her to excel in her role as the managing partner of a large law firm.   

Pamela's vision for the future includes greater opportunities and fewer barriers for women following in her footsteps. She aspires to a future where the glass ceiling is shattered, enabling women to excel in various fields, from law to business and community development. She hopes that the path forward will be clear, bright, and hopeful for everyone.