In continuing with our staff spotlight series, this month, we thought we’d get to know paralegal, Gemma Ward, a bit better. Gemma is most likely the first face you see when you visit GLS Injury Law, as her desk is located in the main lobby. Gemma applies her versatility and warm personality by managing auto accident, workers’ compensation, slip and fall, dog bite and serious personal injury cases, as well as answering client phone calls.
Gemma first became interested in the law when studying political science at Hartwick College in New York. As a stepping stone to the legal profession, she developed a strong background in communications and management. When the opportunity arose to be a part of a firm that concentrates all of its efforts on helping those who have been injured, she jumped at the chance.
Now, Gemma utilizes all of her academic and practical skills to make GLS Injury Law the most client-friendly firm in Lancaster County. Ask any of our clients, and they will tell you how kind, compassionate and caring she is—Gemma will make you feel like part of the family.
Q&A
Q: What was your background before becoming a paralegal? Was it something you always wanted to be, or did you have other aspirations?
A: I was a sales manager for a communications company in the Lancaster area prior to joining GLS Injury Law. My territory was the entire state of Pennsylvania. I was planning on returning to school, but moved my way up through a good company and stuck with it.
Q: What made you want to join the GLS Injury Law?
A: I was enticed by the opportunity to be a part of a team to help people.
Q: Helen Shaubach, described herself as a “litigation paralegal.” Are you also a litigation paralegal, or do you have other areas of expertise?
A: Actually, no. I am not a litigation paralegal. I don’t have any one particular area that I specialize in. I handle more of the day to day case work like talking to clients, gathering materials needed for their files and cases, answering phones, etc.
Q: How does your unique background contribute to your position within the firm?
A: My communications & technology background helps me in every day case work. For example, just last week I helped to reformat security video footage so we could have a hard copy.
Q: What is the most interesting case you’ve worked on?
A: Most interesting?? I don’t really have one. To me they are all fascinating, seeing how people are effected by their accidents or injuries. I really feel for each and every client for the personal struggles they go through.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your job?
A: Definitely the clients and getting to know them, and seeing their cases progress.
Q: What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
A: Outside of work I spend most of my time with my six year old son. Whether it is playing laser tag, hiking, or just playing games at home, my outside of work time is usually spent with him.
