From Drills to Dockets: Transferring Military Leadership Skills into the Law

How can military service skills transfer into a career in law? It’s a question that partner David Dziengowski and associate Andrea Laprade answered at a recent webinar through the Morgan Lewis Institute.

David, currently a Commander and Preliminary Hearing Officer in the US Navy Reserve, hosted the discussion alongside retired US Air Force Security Forces Captain and current associate Andrea Laprade. “Even in the service,” said David, “it’s not about just barking out orders and expecting people to follow.  You need buy-in from the team . . . It’s mission first, but people always.” Advice that resonates strongly in a firm built on prioritizing relationships.

Partner David Dziengowski is currently a Commander and Preliminary Hearing Officer in the US Navy Reserve.

David and Andrea didn’t know each other then, but their Afghanistan deployments overlapped in 2012. “Future Morgan Lewis lawyers, fighting the good fight!” David said. David currently serves in the Navy Reserve Trial Judiciary Unit as a preliminary hearing officer. Although Andrea is retired from military service, she remains connected to the lifestyle through her spouse, an active duty servicemember.

The conversation explored how a battle-ready mindset can transfer into a rewarding legal career by incorporating teamwork, strategic thinking, adaptability, and active leadership into one’s daily approach. The Morgan Lewis Institute provides cross-practice tools for associate success, such as effective leadership, for strategic career development.

David also shared a principle that easily translates into his position of leadership at the firm: “Be the leader who lets down the rope. As a leader, think about how you can mentor others and bring them up. . . . Be your authentic self and radiate positive attributes—and you will get success from those around you.”

From her viewpoint as an associate, Andrea added, “When we are leading a team, at any level—regardless of where you are in the team, whether a senior or junior member—you own a piece of the mission. Take ownership.”

Retired US Air Force Security Forces Captain Andrea Laprade is an associate in our Washington, DC office.

“But don’t carry that pack by yourself. Make sure you’re delegating the way that you need to, and everyone is participating to form your cohesive unit,” she continued. 

Both lawyers are part of the Veterans Lawyer Network, which is open to all lawyers. The network aspires to promote the leadership and development of current and former military service members within the firm and foster a sense of community.