Inspiring Women in Law: a conversation with Leslie Palma

"I advise them to stay passionate, seek out mentors, stay current, and don’t be afraid to face challenges."
 

With more than two decades of experience in labor law, Leslie Palma has advised all types of companies-national, foreign, large and small-in a field that in Mexico has not stopped moving. Today she is a partner at Greenberg Traurig, where she leads complex matters ranging from individual litigation to collective bargaining, regulatory compliance, employee transfers and labor structure design.
In this interview with Latin Counsel, she speaks candidly about the most common challenges companies face when operating in the country, the most relevant recent changes in labor law, and what motivates her to continue in a practice where the balance between labor rights and business sustainability is not only key, but urgent.
She also shares some advice for those starting out in law and acknowledges that, had she not gone into law, she probably would have taken a similar human path: psychology.

Latin Counsel: Leslie, what motivated you to become a lawyer and specialize in labor law?

Leslie Palma: From a young age, I always had a strong sense of justice and a passion for defending the rights of entities and individuals. I experienced firsthand the labor difficulties in my family, which motivated me to focus on labor law to make a meaningful difference. My empathy and commitment to fairness have led me to fight for fair labor conditions, respecting the rights of workers but also seeking to preserve sources of employment that benefit society as a whole and avoid unfair criteria or facts that could end these sources of employment.

Latin Counsel: If you had not chosen law as a career, what other area of study would have interested you?

Leslie Palma: If I had not chosen law, I probably would have leaned towards psychology, as I am deeply interested in understanding human behaviour and helping people overcome their challenges. Psychology would have allowed me to explore the complexities of the human mind and offer support to those facing difficulties, something that also reflects my empathetic nature and desire to help others.

Latin Counsel: With more than 20 years of experience, what do you consider have been the most significant changes in labor law in Mexico?

Leslie Palma: I have seen many changes throughout my career, but I highlight the 2012, 2019 and 2021 labor reforms as the most significant. These reforms introduced important changes in labor justice such as the installation of Labor Courts, union democratization, collective bargaining, the prohibition of outsourcing and the regulation of specialized services. I believe that these changes have been fundamental in advancing towards a fairer and more equitable labor environment.

Latin Counsel: What aspects of your work practice do you enjoy most and why?

Leslie Palma: I especially enjoy the opportunity to advise national and international companies, small, medium and large companies, to create equitable work environments. I am passionate about working with clients and colleagues, with the same human quality and empathy. The satisfaction of seeing real improvements is what I value most in my practice, such as conflict prevention activities. In addition, I am proud to contribute to the preservation of jobs, helping to ensure that companies can operate in a fair and sustainable manner.

Latin Counsel: You have advised many international clients, what are the main challenges they face when operating in Mexico?

Leslie Palma: The main challenges international clients face include adapting to local regulations, understanding Mexican labor culture and implementing compliance policies. I work closely with these clients to help them navigate these challenges, offering personalized advice and strategies tailored to their specific needs.

Latin Counsel: Can you share a case in which you have had to manage complex labor litigation?

Leslie Palma: I remember a case in which I represented a multinational company against a group of workers seeking to negotiate benefits that were not contemplated within the current legal framework. Through innovative legal strategies, we were able to achieve a favorable result for my client, which was very gratifying. This case highlights my ability to approach complex situations with professionalism and my commitment to integrity.

Latin Counsel: How do you approach the transfer of employees and standardization of benefits in companies operating in multiple jurisdictions?

Leslie Palma: I emphasize the importance of strategic planning and coordination across jurisdictions to ensure a smooth transition and equality of benefits for all employees and that companies avail themselves of tax benefits for the implementation of deemed welfare benefits.

Latin Counsel: How important are non-compete agreements in the employment advice you provide?

Leslie Palma: The purpose of these agreements is to protect the commercial interests of companies, focusing on fairness and reasonableness, and that they are negotiated in a transparent manner. When these types of agreements are not regulated by the Federal Labor Law, we look for alternatives to implement them with supplementary laws, in order to help protect the use of company information that has been obtained by key former employees of a company.

Latin Counsel: How do you handle labor relations and collective bargaining in the current context?

Leslie Palma: Currently this type of negotiations requires seeking a balance between the interests of workers and employers, promoting an open and constructive dialogue. In my experience, combining both mediation skills and an inclusive approach are essential to reach agreements that satisfy all parties involved.

Latin Counsel: What strategies do you recommend to implement effective employment policies in companies?

Leslie Palma: It is essential to establish clear policies, promote continuous training and encourage open communication between employees and employers to ensure a healthy and productive work environment. Transparency and education are key elements in building positive labor relations.

Latin Counsel: What is your approach to conducting labor audits and ensuring compliance?

Leslie Palma: In my experience, conducting regular audits to identify and correct potential non-compliances before they become legal issues helps ensure that companies are in compliance with all regulations. Having a proactive and detailed approach helps prevent conflicts and maintain a legally compliant work environment.

Latin Counsel: How do you keep up to date on trends and changes in labor law?

Leslie Palma: I keep up to date through continuing education, reading specialized publications and participating in conferences and seminars. My dedication to constant learning ensures that I am always aware of the latest developments in labor law.

Latin Counsel: How do you balance your professional life with your personal interests and hobbies?

Leslie Palma: By setting clear boundaries between my professional and personal life, dedicating time to my hobbies and family activities, and seeking support when necessary to maintain a healthy balance. I believe this balance is essential to maintaining my well-being and professional effectiveness.

Latin Counsel: What are the most common mistakes companies make in the workplace and how can they avoid them?

Leslie Palma: The most common mistakes include lack of proper documentation, failure to update policies and mismanagement of labor disputes. I advise companies to maintain open communication and regularly update their policies to avoid these problems.

Latin Counsel: What advice would you give to young aspiring lawyers who are just starting their careers?

Leslie Palma: I would advise them to stay passionate, seek out mentors, stay current and not be afraid to face challenges. Perseverance and dedication are key to success in this career, and I encourage young lawyers to follow their dreams with determination and integrity, both of which are values that distinguish people, but especially lawyers.

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