How I Made Partner: ‘Work on Building Relationships and Bridges,’ Says Ravi Fernando of Alston & Bird
In the competitive world of law, making partner at a top-tier firm like Alston & Bird is a monumental achievement. For J. Ravindra (Ravi) Fernando, a partner in the Intellectual Property Litigation Group, the journey to partnership was paved with hard work, technical expertise, and a commitment to building relationships. In a recent interview with Law.com, Fernando shared his guiding principle: “Never burn bridges. Treat everyone with respect and kindness. Work on building relationships and bridges. In my view, it’s always the best approach in life and at a firm.” This philosophy, combined with his legal acumen, propelled him to partnership effective January 1, 2025. Here’s how Ravi Fernando made it happen, with insights that aspiring lawyers can apply to their own careers.
The Power of Building Relationships in Law
The legal profession thrives on trust and collaboration. For Fernando, building relationships wasn’t just a strategy—it was a way of life. From his early days as an associate, he understood that success in law isn’t only about winning cases or drafting perfect briefs. It’s about fostering connections with colleagues, clients, and even adversaries. “You cannot anticipate how your paths may cross in the future,” Fernando said, emphasizing the importance of treating everyone with respect.
Fernando’s approach to building relationships started within Alston & Bird’s Charlotte office, where he’s based. He made a point to connect with colleagues across practice groups, from intellectual property to corporate and tax. These internal relationships created a network of support, ensuring he was staffed on high-profile cases and trusted with significant responsibilities. “Work on building relationships within your firm,” he advised. “It’s the foundation for growth.”
But it wasn’t just about internal networking. Fernando also prioritized relationships with clients, understanding their needs and translating complex technical issues into clear, actionable advice. His background in electrical engineering gave him an edge in patent litigation, but his ability to connect with clients on a human level set him apart. “Clients want someone who listens and understands their business,” he explained. This focus on building relationships with clients led to repeat business and referrals, which are critical for a young lawyer aiming for partnership.
Early Career: Laying the Foundation for Partnership
Ravi Fernando’s path to partnership began with a strong academic foundation. He earned a B.S. in electrical engineering from the University of Notre Dame, followed by a J.D., cum laude, from Notre Dame Law School, where he served as a senior editor for the Notre Dame Journal of Law, Ethics & Public Policy. His technical background gave him a unique perspective in intellectual property (IP) law, particularly in patent disputes involving telecommunications, computer software, and mechanical devices. But academic credentials alone don’t make a partner. Fernando’s early career was defined by his ability to combine technical expertise with interpersonal skills.
As an associate at Alston & Bird, Fernando dove into complex IP litigation. He worked on high-stakes cases before the International Trade Commission (ITC) and district courts, representing clients like manufacturing companies and U.S. cellular carriers. One notable case involved defending a telecommunications company in a lawsuit over radio interfaces in mobile networks, where Fernando’s engineering knowledge helped demystify technical jargon for judges and juries. But he didn’t stop at technical contributions. He made it a priority to work on building relationships with senior partners, seeking their mentorship and feedback.
Mentorship was a cornerstone of Fernando’s journey. He sought out partners who could guide him through the nuances of IP law and firm politics. “Find mentors who invest in your growth,” he said. These relationships gave him insights into what partners value: reliability, initiative, and a client-first mindset. By consistently delivering high-quality work and showing a willingness to learn, Fernando built trust with his mentors, which translated into more opportunities to shine.
The Role of Teamwork in Building Relationships
Alston & Bird is known for its collaborative culture, and Fernando leaned into this environment. “An effective law practice requires teamwork,” said Ben Johnson, a former managing partner at the firm. Fernando embraced this ethos, working closely with colleagues across the firm’s 13 offices, from Atlanta to London. He made a point to work on building relationships with paralegals, administrative staff, and junior associates, recognizing that every role contributes to success.
This collaborative approach paid off in cases like the ITC investigation involving fiber-optic connectors, where Fernando represented a manufacturing company. Coordinating with a diverse team of lawyers, technical experts, and client representatives, he helped secure a favorable outcome. His ability to foster strong relationships within the team ensured smooth communication and alignment on strategy. “You don’t succeed alone,” Fernando noted. “Building relationships with your team makes you more effective.”
Fernando also extended his relationship-building to external stakeholders. In patent litigation, opposing counsel can be just as important as your own team. Fernando’s philosophy of never burning bridges meant he maintained professionalism even in contentious disputes. “Treat everyone with kindness,” he said. “You might face the same lawyer in another case.” This approach not only earned him respect but also made negotiations smoother, as opponents knew he was fair but firm.
Overcoming Challenges Through Relationship-Building
The road to partnership wasn’t without obstacles. IP litigation is demanding, with tight deadlines and high stakes. Fernando recalled late nights preparing for ITC hearings and juggling multiple cases. But he credits his success to the relationships he built along the way. “When you’re under pressure, having a strong network makes all the difference,” he said. Colleagues stepped in to help with research, share insights, or cover tasks when he was stretched thin.
One challenge was navigating the firm’s expectations for billable hours while also investing time in building relationships. Fernando found a balance by integrating relationship-building into his daily work. He attended firm events, joined pro bono initiatives, and participated in office book clubs—small gestures that strengthened bonds with colleagues. These efforts aligned with Alston & Bird’s culture, which has earned the firm a spot on Fortune’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” list for 25 consecutive years.
Another hurdle was standing out in a competitive field. IP law is crowded with talented lawyers, and Fernando knew he needed to differentiate himself. He did this by taking ownership of his cases and proactively addressing client needs. “Anticipate what your team and client need,” he advised, echoing the sentiments of fellow Alston & Bird partner Brittany Raway. By being reliable and forward-thinking, Fernando became a go-to lawyer for complex IP disputes, which bolstered his case for partnership.
Key Strategies for Building Relationships
Fernando’s journey offers practical lessons for aspiring partners. Here are his key strategies for building relationships:
1. Be Genuine in Your Interactions
Authenticity matters. Fernando didn’t network just to climb the ladder; he genuinely cared about the people he worked with. Whether it was grabbing coffee with a colleague or checking in with a client, he showed interest in their lives and goals. “People can tell when you’re sincere,” he said. This authenticity built trust, which is critical in a profession where relationships drive referrals and repeat business.
2. Seek Out Mentors Early
Mentorship was pivotal for Fernando. He sought out partners who could guide him through the complexities of IP law and the partnership track. “Don’t be afraid to ask for advice,” he said. Mentors helped him navigate firm politics, refine his legal skills, and understand what partners look for in candidates. These relationships also gave him advocates who vouched for him when partnership decisions were made.
3. Invest in Your Firm’s Culture
Alston & Bird’s collaborative culture was a perfect fit for Fernando’s approach. He participated in firm initiatives, from pro bono work to community service projects like building bikes for underserved youth. These activities weren’t just resume-builders; they helped him connect with colleagues on a deeper level. “Get involved in your firm’s community,” he advised. “It shows you’re invested in the bigger picture.”
4. Never Burn Bridges
Fernando’s mantra of never burning bridges shaped his interactions. Whether dealing with a difficult opposing counsel or a demanding client, he stayed professional and respectful. “You never know when you’ll cross paths again,” he said. This approach not only preserved his reputation but also opened doors to future collaborations and referrals.
5. Deliver Exceptional Work
While relationships are crucial, they must be backed by excellent work. Fernando’s technical expertise in electrical engineering and his ability to translate complex issues for clients set him apart. He consistently delivered solutions that met client needs, earning their trust and loyalty. “Good work builds strong relationships,” he said.
The Partnership Announcement: A Milestone Achieved
On January 7, 2025, Alston & Bird announced the election of 20 new partners, including Fernando. The firm highlighted his contributions to the Intellectual Property Litigation Group, noting his work on patent cases involving telecommunications and LED lighting devices. The announcement was a testament to Fernando’s years of hard work and relationship-building.
Becoming a partner at Alston & Bird is no small feat. The firm, with over 800 lawyers across 13 offices, is a leader in IP, litigation, and corporate law, serving clients like Amazon, Microsoft, and Toyota. Fernando’s elevation reflects his ability to combine technical expertise with a client-centric, relationship-driven approach. “It’s an honor to join the partnership,” he said. “I’m excited to continue building relationships and serving our clients.”
Lessons for Aspiring Lawyers
Fernando’s story offers a roadmap for young lawyers. Work on building relationships isn’t just a catchphrase—it’s a proven strategy for success. Here are some takeaways:
- Prioritize People: Treat everyone—colleagues, clients, and opponents—with respect. These connections can open doors you didn’t expect.
- Be Proactive: Anticipate needs and take ownership of your work. This builds trust and shows you’re ready for leadership.
- Embrace Teamwork: Collaborate with others and contribute to your firm’s culture. It strengthens your network and reputation.
- Stay Resilient: The partnership track is demanding, but a strong support system of mentors and colleagues can help you overcome challenges.
FAQ: Building Relationships on the Path to Partnership
Q: Why is building relationships so important for making partner?
A: Relationships build trust, which is essential for getting staffed on big cases, earning client referrals, and gaining support from partners during promotion decisions. Fernando’s focus on building relationships ensured he had advocates within and outside the firm.
Q: How can young lawyers start building relationships effectively?
A: Be genuine, seek mentors, and get involved in firm activities like pro bono or community service. Small gestures, like attending firm events or checking in with colleagues, go a long way.
Q: What role does technical expertise play compared to relationships?
A: Both are critical. Technical skills get you in the door, but relationships keep you there. Fernando’s engineering background helped him excel in IP law, but his ability to connect with people made him a partner.
Q: How do you balance billable hours with relationship-building?
A: Integrate relationship-building into your work. Collaborate on cases, join firm initiatives, and make time for mentorship. Fernando found that these efforts naturally complemented his billable work.
Q: What if you’re introverted and struggle with networking?
A: Focus on one-on-one interactions. Coffee chats or small group activities can be less daunting. Fernando emphasized authenticity, so be yourself and build connections at your own pace.
Conclusion: Relationships Are the Key to Success
Ravi Fernando’s journey to partnership at Alston & Bird is a testament to the power of building relationships. His mantra—“Work on building relationships and bridges”—guided him through the challenges of IP litigation and the competitive partnership track. By fostering genuine connections with colleagues, clients, and mentors, Fernando not only achieved professional success but also contributed to Alston & Bird’s collaborative culture. For aspiring lawyers, his story is a reminder that technical expertise and hard work are essential, but relationships are the glue that holds a career together. Whether you’re an associate or a seasoned attorney, take Fernando’s advice: treat everyone with respect, invest in your firm’s community, and never burn bridges. That’s how you make partner—and build a lasting legacy in law.