Why are you passionate about public policy?

Question

Public policy shapes the very fabric of our society, influencing everything from personal freedoms to global business opportunities. This article explores the multifaceted world of policy-making, drawing on insights from experts who have dedicated their careers to creating meaningful change. From immigration reform to safety regulations, discover how passionate individuals are working to transform lives and build a more equitable future for all.

Paul Deloughery · Answer

Delving into the intricate web of laws, I realized that public policy is the backbone of our societal structure. My journey from musician to lawyer, particularly in estate planning and probate, allowed me to see how policies directly shape familial interactions and wealth transfer. For instance, my work in Arizona focuses on safeguarding family legacies, transcending beyond just legal compliance to nurture family harmony.
My book, "Lasting Wealth," underscores the significance of keeping wealth within structured trusts rather than outright distributions. This isn't just legal jargon—it's a pragmatic approach to circumvent common pitfalls I've personally witnessed affecting families. Such policies and strategies empower families with autonomy and preserve their values, showing the importance of focused public policy in personal lives.
Personal events, like my near-fatal accident, emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and ensuring that personal values align with professional endeavors. My experience managing wealth transitions reflects how custom strategies and thoughtful policies can substantially impact families, allowing legacies to endure beyond just legal documentation.

Jeremy Rivera · Answer

I am passionate about public policy because it directly impacts the lives of individuals like me who have been caught in cycles of adversity due to systemic issues. My journey from incarceration to entrepreneurship under the CAURD program showcases how public policy can provide second chances. This program specifically supports justice-involved entrepreneurs, demonstrating public policy's potential to foster social equity and community development.
One specific example is the CAURD program, which allowed individuals with past cannabis convictions, like myself, to secure licenses and start legally operating businesses in the cannabis industry. This transformative policy didn't just empower me to change my life but also enabled me to create jobs and contribute positively to the Queens community. By prioritizing diversity and inclusion, policies like these pave the way for a more equitable society.
My involvement in mentoring others who have faced similar challenges reflects the significance of public policy in driving change. Just as I benefited from guidance and opportunities, I'm committed to using my platform to advocate for policies that support second chances and community reinvestment, ensuring that others can pursue their entrepreneurial dreams, just as I did.

Adam Dayan · Answer

As an immigration lawyer, I've worked with families who are trying to build a new life in a new country. The rules and regulations that govern immigration make the difference between being able to stay together as a family and being separated by borders. A well-crafted policy gives someone who's been living in the shadows for years a pathway to citizenship. They gain access to better jobs, healthcare, and education. On the other hand, I've also seen how poorly designed policies can lead to families being torn apart, leaving people in limbo without a clear future.
For me, public policy is about creating a system that is fair, equitable, and helps people thrive. When policies are made with compassion and understanding, they can be incredibly powerful tools for good.

Alon Barzakay · Answer

I am passionate about public policy because it directly affects the safety and well-being of individuals, especially in areas like personal injury and wrongful death law. My experience at Attorney Big Al has shown me the importance of policies that ensure road safety and protect victims of negligence. For example, Boca Raton's growing population has increased traffic density, leading to more accidents. Effective urban planning and traffic management policies are crucial to address these challenges.
During my time at Michigan State University School of Law, I gained a deep understanding of how legal frameworks can protect individual rights and promote justice. This perspective has been instrumental in my work, where I've seen how public policy impacts victims' access to fair compensation, particularly in cases involving punitive damages. Such measures not only serve justice but also encourage safer practices in businesses and communities.
I believe public policy is a powerful tool to create safer workplaces and communities. By advocating for regular safety audits and incident reporting, as highlighted in our firm's guidelines, we can track the effectiveness of safety policies and make necessary improvements. This proactive approach not only protects employees but also improves overall business operations.

Adam Krolikowski · Answer

Public policy drives my passion because it allows for systemic change, which is crucial in ensuring justice and safety. In my practice, I've seen how successful personal injury cases can lead to public safety improvements. For instance, addressing negligence in a poorly designed roadway through litigation often prompts local councils to implement necessary reforms, potentially preventing future accidents.
Working in California, I've tackled complex cases in both state and federal courts, which gives me a broad perspective on how policy can be leveraged for justice and prevention. Each case isn't just about compensation but setting a precedent that holds corporations accountable, leading to better safety standards. This impact extends beyond the courtroom, influencing public entities to reassess and improve their safety protocols.
My firm handles cases that others might shy away from, precisely because we believe in the broader implications of our work. By advocating for clients, we contribute to a safer community, proving that legal advocacy is a powerful tool for public policy change. This comprehensive approach ensures that our victories are not just personal but also societal, reinforcing my commitment to public policy as a means for positive change.

Danilo Coviello · Answer

What led me to be passionate about public policy is seeing how smart regulations can unlock opportunities for businesses, especially in global markets. I run a translation agency, and I have watched clients struggle when policies around cross-border trade, data privacy, or intellectual property are unclear or restrictive. When governments get policy right, such as harmonizing international standards or simplifying export procedures, it benefits more than just big corporations. Small businesses suddenly find it easier to expand, hire, and compete globally.
The EU's GDPR, for example, pushed companies to rethink how they handle personal data. At first, it looked like another layer of bureaucracy. Over time, though, it gave businesses a consistent framework that made cross-border operations more manageable. Customers began expecting more transparency, and companies had a structure they could rely on instead of constantly second-guessing compliance requirements. Good policy strips away confusion and gives businesses room to grow without stumbling over legal uncertainty. That's what keeps me passionate about it. I don't see public policy as theory. I see it as the difference between building momentum or getting blocked at every turn.

William McBride · Answer

I am passionate about public policy because of my personal experiences and the impact I see it having on individuals' lives. When I was ten, my family was defrauded in a rent-to-own scheme, which led to us losing our home. This traumatic experience instilled in me the drive to fight for justice and ensure others don't face similar hardships due to deceptive practices. Public policy plays a crucial role in preventing such injustices and protecting vulnerable communities.
In my career as a lawyer, I've represented thousands of personal injury claims and wrongful death lawsuits. I've seen how public policy can either support or hinder justice for individuals who have been wronged. For example, effective policy changes in workers' compensation can significantly improve outcomes for injured workers. Our firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for clients, showcasing the power of advocacy and policy in ensuring fair compensation.
Furthermore, working in states like Florida, New Mexico, Washington, and Colorado, I've witnessed the diverse challenges and opportunities that different legal frameworks present. By engaging with public policy, I aim to influence positive changes that uphold justice and protect individuals' rights across various jurisdictions.

Alex Freeburg · Answer

Because it shapes the rules that keep people safe. If insurance companies or large corporations have too much power, victims are left to fight an uphill battle. As a personal injury lawyer, I see firsthand how bad policies, or a lack of them, leave people vulnerable. Be it workplace safety, consumer protection, or fair access to healthcare, good policies prevent harm before it happens. 
Laws should protect people, not just businesses or insurers, and that's why fighting for smarter policies is ensuring fewer people need one in the first place.

Why are you passionate about public policy?