Attorney Spotlight: Steve Fabietti

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 Steve Fabietti

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

I became interested in the law as a result of a business law course I took during my sophomore year in college. My practice area evolved over the years as a result of a combination of the needs of clients and my desire to do the types of work for which I am best suited.  

How has the legal profession changed since you started practicing? 

The use of various forms of technology has changed the profession quite a bit. When I started practicing, fax machines were the accepted form of electronic communication, and email was new. The pace is now quicker than ever.  

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

Print it out and proofread it. 

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

I often work with families who are dealing with loss or uncertainties resulting from change. Sometimes the changes are good, and sometimes they are not. It is rewarding to be a useful resource in either situation. Most of our work involves thinking and reasoning, so the challenges most often come in reconciling the time needed for those tasks against the perceived advantages of technology.  

How do you approach building strong relationships with your clients? 

I find that trust is not built overnight but little by little over a period of time.  

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

Our senior partner Ben Levin has been a mentor and role model to me. He knows best how to balance the needs of our clients, the needs of our firm, and the needs of our individual attorneys.

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

History teacher.

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

Practicing guitar, even for only a few minutes, helps me reset after a long day.

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

I really like a podcast called “Pursuit: The Founders’ Guide to Happiness” created by the National Constitution Center and hosted by Jeffrey Rosen and Ken Burns.

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

I hope to get to Vancouver Island someday, because my cousin lives there and it is supposed to be beautiful.

Coffee or tea — and how do you take it? 

Coffee with cream.

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

To get us ready before game time, the manager of my Little League team used to say over and over, “Lotta confidence, fellas, lotta confidence.”  

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

“I know I was born, and I know that I’ll die. The in between is mine.” – Eddie Vedder