It's often the moments that don't seem remarkable at the time that change everything. For Leigha Simonton, those moments included a move across state lines, a mock trial competition, and a mother who never stopped believing in her.

In this episode of Counsel Brew, Leigha reflects on the experiences that shaped her long before she stepped into leadership. She shares what it was like growing up in a rural Louisiana community, moving to Dallas as a teenager, discovering mock trial, and learning that success comes from adapting, asking questions, and putting in the work. Along the way, she talks about the influence of her mother, a former NASA mathematician, the mentors who helped shape her career, and the unexpected way a mock trial competition introduced her to her future husband.

The conversation also explores building high-performing teams, mentoring younger lawyers, and why she hopes to see the legal profession place an even greater emphasis on developing its next generation of leaders. Mixed in with stories about appellate arguments, Secret Service training, and a favorite morning coffee ritual, the episode offers a thoughtful look at a career built through curiosity and a commitment to continuous learning.

In This Episode

Growing up in rural Louisiana and adapting to life in Dallas
How mock trial shaped both a legal career and a lifelong partnership
The influence of mentors, family, and the people who opened doors
Lessons from a career in public service, including time as U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas
Building high-performing teams and investing in the next generation of lawyers
Balancing a demanding legal career with family life
Secret Service driving school, appellate advocacy, and a few memorable stories from the Department of Justice
Why curiosity and lifelong learning continue to guide her career

About Leigha Simonton

Leigha Simonton is Co-Chair of Dykema's White Collar & Government Investigations Section. Before joining Dykema, she served as the Senate-confirmed U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas after an 18-year career as an Assistant U.S. Attorney. A graduate of Yale Law School, Leigha now represents clients in complex investigations, white collar matters, commercial litigation, and regulatory matters while leading one of the Southwest's premier teams of former Department of Justice attorneys.

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Explicit Rating is for the occasional use of colorful language.