Lightfoot Attorney Spotlight for Rob Wilkins
February 24, 2020
In which office are you located?
Houston
Why did you want to become a lawyer?
Growing up, some of my best friends had mothers or fathers who were lawyers. I loved hearing about their cases, clients, trials, successes and even their defeats. So, from a very young age, I knew that —even though my father was a surgeon — I wanted to be a trial lawyer.
What is a valuable lesson you’ve learned in your profession?
The biggest difference between a good lawyer and a bad or mediocre lawyer, is simply the degree of care. The lawyer who really cares about his/her client, work product and the result, is the lawyer who will put forth the extra effort that ultimately makes all the difference.
What suggestion do you have for someone looking to pursue a similar career?
Make sure that you like to read, tell stories, solve problems and that you’re not afraid of conflict. If those are an issue, do something else.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Our attitude is a choice that we make every single day, so choose to have a positive outlook and attitude.
What do you enjoy doing during your free time?
I most enjoy being outdoors with my wife and son. My son is still young (7) and so most of our time is spent shooting baskets, playing baseball or working on one of his other sports. But, my wife and I have also taken him to shoot sporting clays (he pulls, but doesn’t yet shoot), and we love to fish, sail or throw the frisbee for our golden retriever, Bailey.
If you weren’t a lawyer, what would you be?
If I had not become a lawyer, I think I would have followed in my father’s footsteps and become a surgeon.
What was your very first job?
My first job was working for my father, writing in patient charts (as he conducted eye examinations) and otherwise helping out around his office.
What is one thing you’re exceptionally good at?
I used to be an exceptionally good shot (with a shotgun). I also used to be exceptionally good at barbecuing. Marriage and raising a young son have brought me great joy while, at the same time, detracting from both abilities. Now, I’m just an exceptionally good driver.
What is something that’s better in theory than in practice?
Pomegranates.
How do you clear your mind after a bad day?
I have a conversation with my son, to hear about his day. Then I may read to him or have him read to me. That puts everything into perspective for me.
What is on your bucket list?
I would like to take my wife and son to Europe.
If you could compete in an Olympic sport, what would it be?
The only sport I ever had any chance of competing in on an Olympic level, is sporting clays or some other shooting event. But, if there does not have to be any basis in reality, then it would be the 100-yard dash . . . fastest man alive. Or synchronized diving with (friend and attorney Jared) Levinthal as my partner. But, I worry that he just won’t devote the time required to really synch up.
