While a sophomore at San Diego State University, Dianna Bedri took a job with the Law Offices of William Ward, a sole practitioner who specialized in construction litigation. During the next four years, while obtaining her bachelor’s degree in political science, she assisted all aspects of the practice, including secretarial support, paralegal work and overall trial preparation.

In 2004, Bedri applied for a position with Neil Dymott APLC to work in a larger practice and gain exposure to different areas of the legal profession. She joined a team of five litigation attorneys with 50-75 active files, ranging from variations of medical and legal malpractice to debt collection. Despite the fast-paced litigation environment, Bedri quickly mastered case management and organizational responsibilities. Recently, she was promoted to lead secretary on a team that now includes two partners, three associates, a paralegal and two additional secretaries.

In the last year, Bedri supported two attorneys in a well-publicized case involving an ex-Marine injured during training. Her tireless efforts on this case, while managing a full caseload, were critical to the successful defense. In the process, she effectively researched and applied federal and constitutional law, areas of law outside what the team normally practices.

While responsible for two attorneys, Bedri is often asked to assist all members of her team in a variety of tasks. For instance, during the past 18 months she organized numerous events for injured service members from all branches at Balboa Naval Hospital, including a Christmas party, a Padres outing and a pizza party.

Bedri feels fortunate to work with people she counts as great friends, which makes the job both professionally rewarding and enjoyable. While managing a full-time position, she is also pursuing a paralegal degree, and acts as a representative for the American Cancer Society Daffodil Days.