Attorney Spotlight: Megan Knowlton Balne

Every attorney has a unique path, perspective, and story. In our Attorney Spotlight series, we go beyond the bio to learn more about the people behind the practice — their careers, interests, inspirations, and what drives them both inside and outside the office.

Get to know Partner Megan Knowlton Balne.

What inspired you to become an attorney, and why did you choose your practice area?  

I enjoy helping people, and I like the intellectual challenge of the legal profession. My practice area in litigation was a natural fit with my theater background. My employment focus happened gradually over time as I realized I could have a positive impact through guiding businesses in having a safe and productive workplace, especially during and after COVID.

How has the legal profession changed since you started practicing?  

Honestly, it has become more fast-paced, and there is a greater focus on being adversarial versus professional. I strive to be professional, and it is always a breath of fresh air when I have an adversary that is professional versus unnecessarily aggressive. I think with the reliance on technology, especially since COVID, and the lack of in-person interaction, it has become easy to dehumanize an opponent, and that has had a negative impact on the profession as a whole.

What advice would you give to someone just beginning their legal career?  

Do good work and hold yourself to a high standard.

What part of your work do you find the most rewarding? The most challenging? 

The most rewarding is when I am able to be part of positive change for my client. Helping businesses navigate the COVID pandemic and stay open so their employees could retain their benefits and a paycheck was incredibly fulfilling. The most challenging is dealing with highly aggressive attorneys and the fast-paced nature of litigation.

How do you approach building strong relationships with your clients?  

Always keep your client’s best interests at the forefront, especially in litigation. Oftentimes, the fight feels personal to you, but it isn’t. Let your client drive the bus and keep them focused on the end goal that reaches the best result for their business. That may be settling the case when you feel you could win it on the merits. Sometimes the best solution for the client is not the aggressive litigation tactic you want to take.

Who has been a mentor or role model in your career, and what did you learn from them?  

Our founding partner, Bill Hyland, was an incredible mentor to me. He encouraged me to learn from all the attorneys but to find my own style as a litigator. He also always put his clients first and showed me how good work makes the best impact.

If you weren’t practicing law, what other career might you have pursued?  

I would have been pursuing the arts in New York City as a director. I had the opportunity to attend graduate school for theater arts at NYU but turned it down and pursued law school instead.

What’s your favorite way to relax after a long day in the office?  

Reading a good book and listening to a relaxing mix of music.

Do you have a favorite book, podcast, or movie that you’d recommend?  

Pride and Prejudice is my favorite book and my go-to on particularly stressful days.

What’s one travel destination on your bucket list, and why?  

I want to go back to London. I studied abroad in London and love the city.

Coffee or tea — and how do you take it? 

Coffee, cream only, no sugar.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received (personal or professional)?  

Do good work.

Do you have a favorite quote or motto that guides you? 

Not really. I remind myself that I’m not perfect, and all you can do is make the best decision you can with the information you have at the time. That helps take a lot of stress off.