In the world of law, as in many other fields, women have historically encountered barriers that limited their access to leadership roles and opportunities for advancement. However, the tide is changing, and a new generation of female trailblazers in law is reshaping the narrative, inspiring a wave of transformation and empowerment for women lawyers of tomorrow. These remarkable women are not only breaking down barriers but also laying the foundation for a more inclusive, diverse, and equitable legal profession.
The influence of these female trailblazers extends far beyond their own accomplishments. Through their extraordinary achievements, they are sending a powerful message to aspiring women lawyers: that gender should never define one’s capabilities or potential. By navigating complex legal landscapes, holding influential positions, and championing vital legal reforms, these trailblazers have proven that women have an essential role to play in shaping the future of law.
One of the most impactful ways in which female trailblazers are empowering the women lawyers of tomorrow is by providing visible role models. Representation matters, and seeing women excel in senior legal positions or as partners in prestigious law firms serves as a beacon of possibility. As these trailblazers navigate intricate legal challenges and secure groundbreaking victories, they inspire young women to dream bigger and pursue careers in law without limitations..
In its latest magazine issue ‘Empowering Stories of Female Trailblazers in Law – 2023,’ CIO Women Magazine has featured the story of Heidi Plummer, a lawyer committed to bringing justice to her clients.
Heidi Plummer- At the Helm, Leading with a Unique Approach
Heidi Plummer is the Co-founder of Bock & Plummer, Attorneys at Law. Ms. Plummer was born and raised in Orange County, graduated cum laude as a member of the Dean’s honor roll from California State University, Long Beach (CSULB). Heidi graduated with honors and obtained her Juris Doctorate from Western State College of Law.
With extensive experience in probate, bankruptcy, and business law, Heidi has also assisted and litigated in nearly every aspect of law.
With an extensive two decades of legal practice, Ms. Plummer is a seasoned attorney who embodies passion and dedication in delivering exceptional service to her clients. Her commitment to excellence remains unwavering. Beyond her legal expertise, she actively contributes to her community through participation in various organizations.
In addition to handling law, Heidi also handles the administrative duties, ensuring that the office runs smoothly and that the cases are running as planned.
Throughout her journey, Heidi has been the recipient of several accolades and honors.
She was the Secretary of Orange County Women Lawyers Foundation from 2021-2022. She is currently the Secretary of Orange County Women Lawyers Association and also the Chair of several committees.
She is also the chair-elect for the Orange County Bar Association Solo/Small Firm Section. She has received many peer accolades such as Rising Star 2023, Top 100 Women Lawyers.
The Pursuit of a Better Tomorrow-
“The law was not my choice. I have always wanted to be in a field that helped people.”
Heidi initially started out in the mental health field, but soon found that the work she was doing was not fulfilling and meaningful. Fortunately, she later got a job opportunity in a small law firm which is where she discovered her passion for the law and helping others.
“The biggest hurdle was going back to school after several decades and starting my career in the law at 40. It was a challenge to balance school, work and home life.” she adds.
Sailing through Challenges-
In her journey of becoming a lawyer, Heidi Plummer has had experiences where she is often mistaken for either support staff, court reporter, or even an assistant. However, responding to situations like these, keeping in mind that the nature and culture of law is changing and the world is not there yet, has proved to be a key influencer behind her decisions.
“I do not get angry or upset, instead I show patience and understanding and grace in providing information to those and correcting mistaken impressions.”She further adds.
At Bock and Plummer Law, Heidi Plummer makes it a point to take in interns/externs from both the undergraduate and law schools. This ensures that the students get a true life experience in the legal profession. Further, along the way, Heidi not only works with them on knowledge of the legal profession but also sponsors them at various networking functions and ensures that they make connections that will make them successful.
Bock and Plummer- Attorneys at Law
Bock and Plummer is a specialized civil litigation firm based in Southern California.
The range of their services includes-
Business & Corporate Law
Business Contracts and Analysis, Including: Trade Secrets, Indemnity Provisions, Employee Handbooks, and Intellectual Property Clauses
Contracts, particularly contracts involving distributor arrangements or joint ventures, tend to be long, complicated, and full of “boilerplate.” Asking an attorney who does not specialize in litigation or liability analysis to review warranty or indemnity provisions is a recipe for disaster.
- What if you agree to indemnify wrongful or negligent conduct by a third party?
- What if you accidentally void your own insurance by mishandling subrogation, venue, jurisdiction, or choice-of-counsel provisions?
- How can you ensure that a non-disclosure agreement or confidentiality provision is appropriately drafted to take advantage of recent changes in California law?
- Are you ensuring that employees cannot take inventions, client/customer lists, and proprietary information with them?
The firm can also assist you with:
- Corporate/Partnership Formation and Management (including Limited Liability Entities)
- Corporate Governance and Regulatory Matters
Probate (Will and Trust) Litigation
Disputes over wills and trusts is one of the most grueling types of Litigation. Disputes often arise in the administration of estates, often when there are complex family dynamics and disagreements over the distribution of assets. These disputes arise not only from between beneficiaries, but between beneficiaries and trustees, or even third parties.
A trustee’s management of trust assets could be challenged or the trust’s execution and terms may be challenged. This more often than not results in trust litigation. A trustee is held to a higher standard of accountability under the law. The trustee acts as fiduciary, he or she must put the interest of the trust and the beneficiaries ahead of his or her own interests. Trustees are placed under scrutiny by those persons who established the trust, beneficiaries, and the court.
- Trust Claims often include:
- Failure to distribute assets
- Inadequate or irregular distributions of funds
- Mismanagement of trust assets
- Diversion of assets to the trustee
- Questions regarding the validity of a trust due to undue influence or lack of capacity.
Labor Law
Unpaid Wages, Wrongful Termination, and Employer Misconduct
Have you been cheated by your employer? Some of the common tactics of robbing hourly employees of pay include:
- Not paying overtime or double-time.
- Requiring you to pay for uniforms.
- Requiring you to pay for items you break while on the job.
- Deducting non-paying customers’ bills from your tips.
- Requiring you to be “on-call,” or in the work area, during your meal or rest breaks even though you are “off the clock.”
- Requiring you to be in a waiting area or perform tasks prior to actually being “on the clock.”
- Requiring you to travel to and from company job sites without compensation.
- Requiring that you have a vehicle for your job duties, but failing to pay you for the time traveling to and from work.
- Not allowing you a break for meals.
- Penalties for wrongfully withholding wages can be severe, including interest, exemplary damages, attorneys’ fees, and costs.
General Civil Litigation
Business Litigation, Breach of Contract, and Fraud
The firm is devoted to helping small business owners, contractors, and customers in business disputes. Have you been cheated, defrauded, or misled? Contact us to discuss your options.
Put A Strong, Determined Litigator To Work For You
Bock & Plummer, Attorneys at law, know your time is valuable. That is why the team stresses efficiency throughout the process of resolving your disputes. The firm offers its clients:
Individual attention — When you retain Bock and Plummer, you receive the care, time and attention you deserve.
A more cost-efficient model — The team, constantly seek ways to cut your costs while maintaining the high level of legal services you expect and deserve.
Integrity — The firm’s trial attorneys provide you with straightforward, honest answers to all of your questions and ensure you fully understand the litigation process and what to expect as your case moves forward. The clients rely on the team to help them set realistic expectations.
A focus on success — Bock & Plummer, Attorneys at Law, always has your best interest in mind. If protracted litigation is the only solution to achieve the proper outcome, the firm is ready. If settling your case early on will achieve the best result, the team will take the time to explain why it believes it is in your best interest to settle instead of engaging in lengthy litigation.
Ensuring Gender Equality and Diversity in the Organization
“I’m dedicated to joining organizations that strongly believe in treating everyone equally and valuing diversity.”
Heidi not only supports these ideas, but also works to create opportunities within these groups. This means helping volunteers get involved, setting up ways for people to learn from experienced mentors, and helping build important connections from an early stage.
“By doing this, I’m helping make workplaces fairer and open for everyone. I want to make sure that upcoming leaders have the chance to learn and grow together, so they can make a positive impact in the future.”, she further adds.
Heidi Plummer is also involved in Orange County’s Unity Bar, an organization promoting a Judicial Bench that is representative of the community. This organization works tirelessly from middle school education throughout the application process to become a judicial officer.
Heidi’s Advice to the Young Entrepreneurs-
“Find mentors who offer valuable guidance and build a supportive network that empowers you. Progress is happening, but there’s more to achieve. Recognizing this reality and staying positive amid challenges sets the stage for success.
In growing professionally, mentors provide crucial wisdom. Their experience lights the way, enriching choices and navigating complexities. A supportive community is equally vital. Being part of a diverse, inclusive network instills confidence.
Despite strides in fairness at work, obstacles persist. Recognizing gaps is key for lasting change. A positive mindset in challenges paves the path for triumph. The journey is demanding, yet it’s within these hurdles that growth opportunities arise.
View challenges as catalysts for progress, not roadblocks. Overcoming hurdles breaks norms. Success demands endurance. With mentors, support, and resilience, you’re equipped to thrive amid adversity.
Seek guidance, nurture bonds, and keep a positive outlook. Mentor insights come from experience. A community of peers uplifts and unites.
Remember, your efforts, guided by mentors and supported by peers, drive progress. With dedication to positive change, you shape your path and contribute to a more inclusive professional world.”
