Celebrating Caribbean American Heritage Month: Employee Spotlight - Moya O’Connor

June is Caribbean American Heritage Month. This month gives us an opportunity to learn and celebrate the cultural and historical contributions of Caribbean Americans.

In celebration we are spotlighting Barry McTiernan & Moore's Trial Attorney, Moya O'Connor, whose practice focuses on defending complex litigation in State, Appellate, and Federal Courts.

Jamaican-born, Moya is the founder and CEO of Caribbean Attorneys Network, Inc. (CAN), a professional organization dedicated to developing legal professionals of Caribbean descent. Recently, Moya was chosen as an honoree for the Schneps Media 2023 Manhattan Power List.

When interviewed, she responded as follows:

When did you realize you wanted to become a lawyer, and what inspired you to pursue this career?

I love to debate, and always wanted to be a lawyer because I participated in mock trials since the seventh grade. I participated in mock trials in high school and college, as well as moot court in law school. I always shined in the courtroom. My inspiration is my sister who is also an attorney.  

How has being of Caribbean descent influenced your career in the legal field? 

Being Caribbean catapulted my career!! It pushed me to create CAN. My Jamaican background and passion for my culture pushed me to create the bar association, Caribbean Attorneys Network, which has been a home for attorneys, law students, and legal professionals of Caribbean descent since 2014.

 What advice would you have given yourself at the start of your career? 

“You are here because you deserve to be here.” I battled imposter syndrome for the majority of my legal career, and it took me a long time to believe that I had what it takes to be a successful attorney.

 A favorite mantra or quote. 

“It is not what they call you. It is what you answer to. Keep going.”