Get to Know WIP Members Kristy Sides and Kasey McCalla

By Kristy Sides and Kasey McCalla

This month, we are excited to introduce two WIP members: Kristy Sides and Kasey McCalla!

Kristy Meares Sides

What law school did you attend, and what was your graduation year?

Wake Forest University School of Law, 2004.

Describe what a typical workday is like for you.

I am an attorney who deals with estate planning, estate administration and fiduciary matters. As a small firm partner, a good deal of my time is also spent managing the firm.

Describe what you like to do outside of work.

Act as a tour guide to two teen-aged daughters on trips large and small and scope out great hikes, live music events and porches for sitting and visiting.

Please describe a barrier or obstacle you have faced in your professional career.

As most of my female counterparts can empathize, I have found many creative ways to deal with those who take “lady lawyers” less seriously than their male counterparts.

Please describe your reasons for becoming involved in WIP.

I love to cheer on other women as they reach for their goals!

Kasey C. McCalla

What law school did you attend, and what was your graduation year?

Michigan State University College of Law, 2022.

Describe what a typical workday is like for you.

Despite being a litigation attorney, I am often sitting at my desk writing, researching, taking virtual depositions or attending virtual hearings. If not, I am probably in a courtroom somewhere within North Carolina.

Describe what you like to do outside of work.

I enjoy traveling to new countries, watching reality TV (guilty pleasure) and giving back to my local community in Raleigh.

Please describe a barrier or obstacle you have faced in your professional career.

I attended law school out of state, and it has been difficult to build a supportive community within the legal community. I have to consciously and actively work to build meaningful relationships and mentorship with more experienced attorneys.

Please describe your reasons for becoming involved in WIP.

I value the efforts the NCBA is making to support women attorneys and am willing to help in any way I can. Specifically, I am appreciative to women who paved the way for me to be where I am in my career and want to do my part to help those who will join the profession after me.