Jessica Otiono is a member of the firm’s Commercial Litigation, Civil Defense Litigation, and Employment practice groups where she focuses on helping clients tackle legal issues involved in commercial transactions and navigate the complexities of commercial litigation. Prior to joining the firm as an attorney, Jessica worked as a Summer Associate with Gentry Locke.
A Nigerian immigrant, Jessica earned her J.D. magna cum laude from the University of Richmond School of Law where she belonged to the Richmond Law Moot Court Board and the Richmond Journal of Law and Technology. While at law school, Jessica fell in love with the warm and open nature of the people of Virginia and decided to make the Commonwealth her home. Jessica is licensed in Virginia as well as her home country, Nigeria.
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CALI Awards earned
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Number of Nigerian Jollof made
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Amazing sisters
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If you had chosen a career other than law, what would you be doing?
I would be a chef and perhaps own a chain of restaurants. I have always enjoyed the process of cooking and I find it to be therapeutic. I have also been told several times that I have a real gift when it comes to cooking. I particularly enjoy making Nigerian food because the recipes are diverse and incredibly flavorful, but I am also keen on trying out recipes from other cultures.
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How do friends and family describe you?
Friends and family have often described me as personable, patient, diligent, resilient, and trustworthy. I think these traits come from being the oldest of four daughters!
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What is on your bucket list?
To explore Europe! I have always been fascinated by European architecture and history, so visiting is something I have always looked forward to.
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What is your guiding philosophy for your law practice?
“In truth whatever is worth doing at all, is worth doing well, and nothing can be done well without attention.” – Philip Dormer Stanhope. As lawyers, we must always strive to obtain the best result possible for our clients and it starts with paying attention.
Education
- University of Richmond School of Law, J.D., magna cum laude
- Nigerian Law School, B.L. (Hons)
- Lagos State University, L.L.B. (Hons)
Experience
- Conducted research and drafted legal memoranda and written outlines on legal issues in medical records procurement, employment, medical malpractice matters, federal rules of evidence and legal ethics.
- Researched, drafted, and reviewed pleading for commercial litigation matters, construction litigation, and insurance defense matters.
- Provided assistance and advice for corporations on doing business in Nigeria and compliance with sector specific regulations.
- While at law school, was part of a team that conducted extensive research on Free Trade Agreements, Free Trade Areas, and Foreign Direct Investment in African Regions.
Affiliations
- Member, Nigerian Bar Association
Admissions
- Virginia State Bar
- Nigerian Bar
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News
Dec 2023
