Meet Amanda

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Amanda a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Amanda , so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.

Confidence is crucial in criminal defense—my clients rely on me to advocate for them effectively, and that starts with believing in myself. Practicing exclusively in criminal defense for nearly a decade has given me the experience to develop that self-assurance. Every jury trial, whether a win or a loss, every argument before a judge, and every opportunity to advocate for a client has helped me grow. These moments have sharpened my ability to present myself with confidence, even in the most adversarial situations.

Preparation and knowledge are key. I walk into every courtroom or meeting armed with the facts and the law, ready to anticipate challenges, object when necessary, and respond with conviction. A mentor once taught me to approach each case with creativity before deciding on a strategy, which has been invaluable. Early in my career, self-doubt was more present, but each challenge became a building block toward becoming a more confident attorney.

Over time, I’ve learned that confidence isn’t about always having the perfect answer—it’s about knowing that what I do matters. If I’ve put in the work, mastered the facts, and approached the case with an open and strategic mindset, I know I’m either going to win or go down swinging.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

As a criminal defense attorney and the founder of Amanda Hernandez Law, PLLC, I dedicate my practice to defending individuals facing criminal charges. I believe in the fundamental right to a strong defense and understand the importance of telling my clients’ stories through their defense. I fight just as hard for the wrongfully accused as I do for those who have made a mistake. Whether it’s a misdemeanor, a serious felony, or a federal case, I work to ensure my clients’ voices are heard and their rights are protected.

What excites me most about my work is the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives and the fact that we are fighting to protect the Constitution by defending those rights. Criminal defense isn’t just about legal arguments—it’s about standing between my clients and the full weight of the justice system. Most of the people I represent are facing one of the most difficult moments of their lives, and being their advocate, their strategist, and sometimes their last line of defense is an honor.

At Amanda Hernandez Law, PLLC, I take a creative, aggressive, and strategic approach to every case. No two cases are the same, and I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all defense strategies. I analyze every angle, challenge every piece of evidence, and tailor a defense that gives my clients the best possible outcome.

For anyone facing criminal charges or looking for a defense attorney who will fight for them, Amanda Hernandez Law, PLLC is here to help.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back, three qualities have been most impactful in my journey as a criminal defense attorney: resilience, strategic thinking, and empathy.

Resilience – Criminal defense is not for the faint of heart. We face tough cases, difficult judges, and inevitable setbacks. There are high highs and low lows—wins that feel incredible and losses that stick with you. The key is to keep pushing forward, learn from each experience, and not let one outcome define you. My advice for those starting out: develop a thick skin, remind yourself why you’re doing this work, stay committed during the tough times, and always take care of yourself.
Strategic Thinking – No two cases are the same. A good defense attorney knows how to analyze every detail, anticipate the other side’s moves, and craft a defense tailored to the case. Thinking outside the box is crucial. My advice: never stop learning—study past cases, ask questions, and find mentors who can help you sharpen your ability to see cases from every angle.

Empathy – Clients, jurors, and even opposing counsel are all people, and understanding their perspectives can make a huge difference. Clients need an attorney who not only knows the law but also understands their fears, struggles, and what’s at stake. To develop empathy, focus on listening as much as you speak. Learn how to communicate with people from all walks of life, put yourself in their shoes, and remember that empathy is one of the most powerful tools you have in life.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

I’m always open to collaborating with other attorneys, especially when it comes to trial work. In particular, I often partner with other counsel for cases involving sexual assault, where I can lend my experience in cross-examining victims, especially in sensitive cases involving alleged female or child victims. Having a female attorney handle cross-examinations in such cases can provide a level of comfort and perspective that’s critical to the process.

If you’re an attorney working on a case where you feel my expertise could be helpful, feel free to reach out to me directly. I’m always interested in discussing how we can work together to achieve the best outcomes for our clients.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.amandahernandezlaw.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandahernandezlawpllc/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amandahernandezlawpllc/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-hernandez-b66534102