In Episode 14 of The Billable Mom Podcast, host Cari Rincker, Esq., speaks with Liz Nohren, a dedicated attorney at Dove & Dove, Attorneys at Law, about the powerful intersections of law, family, personal tragedy, and raising a child with disabilities. Liz’s story is a compelling example of resilience, leadership, and grace under pressure. In this blog, we share how one lawyer mom balances parenting, disability advocacy and running a law firm. In this blog, we share “How One Lawyer Mom Balances Parenting, Disability Advocacy, and Running a Law Firm.”
If you’re a working mom managing a career in law while navigating the emotional and logistical challenges of parenting, this episode offers a wealth of practical insight.
From Big City Law to Hometown Leadership
Liz began her legal career in a boutique firm in Chicago before returning to her roots to join her family law practice. This transition allowed her to focus on what matters most—being present for her family while still building a meaningful legal career.
Maternity Leave and the Legal Profession
Like many law firm owners, Liz faced significant challenges during maternity leave. She speaks candidly about the tension between running a practice and adjusting to life with a newborn, particularly without the support structures often found in larger firms. Her reflection reminds us that maternity leave in small firms is a balancing act of survival, support, and letting go of perfectionism.
Navigating Grief and Uncertainty
Liz also shares deeply personal experiences: the sudden passing of her father and a serious accident involving her husband. These events reshaped her perspective on leadership and family—and highlighted how crucial flexibility, empathy, and community are in both the home and the workplace.
Raising a Child with Disabilities
One of the most impactful parts of this episode is Liz’s discussion of parenting a child with disabilities. She shares how this journey has grounded her in what truly matters and has given her a unique lens through which she now practices law—with compassion, patience, and clarity.
Recommended Parenting Resources
Based on Liz’s parenting journey, here are Amazon-recommended books and tools to support families raising children with disabilities:
- The Out-of-Sync Child by Carol Stock Kranowitz – A guide to understanding sensory processing disorder
- Weighted Blanket for Children – Supports calming and sensory regulation
- Visual Daily Schedule Board – Helps children with routines and transitions
- Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Kids – Great for school, therapy sessions, and travel
Building a Family-Like Law Firm Culture
Liz believes in creating a work culture that treats employees like family. She emphasizes accommodating staff schedules, valuing personal time, and leading with empathy. It’s a strategy that’s helped her build a loyal and motivated team—without sacrificing client service.
Time Management Tools That Actually Work
With so many roles to manage, Liz leans on tools that maximize her time. One standout tool? Quick Scribe, a dictation system that allows her to efficiently create documents, send communications, and stay on top of casework without being chained to her desk.
Additional Time-Saving Tools for Working Moms
- Quick Scribe or Dragon Professional – Voice-to-text solutions for legal professionals
- Rocketbook Smart Notebook – Digitally sync handwritten notes
- TimeCube Visual Timer – Great for focus blocks and productivity sprints
- Ergonomic Office Setup – Adjustable desk chairs, footrests, and monitor risers
- Weekly Dry-Erase Wall Calendar – For home and office scheduling visibility
Key Takeaways from Liz’s Episode
- Success in law doesn’t require sacrificing family; it requires intention, boundaries, and creativity
- Maternity leave is different for law firm owners—and requires strategic planning
- Personal hardships can deepen empathy and shape better leadership
- Raising a child with disabilities can strengthen your capacity to listen, adapt, and lead
- Tools like dictation software and shared calendars are game changers for busy moms
Connect with Liz Nohren
Website: doveanddove.com
LinkedIn: Liz Nohren
Email: lnohren@doveanddove.com
Liz continues to lead with strength, care, and authenticity—both in the courtroom and at home.
Listen to the Full Episode
Listen to Episode 14: Balancing Parenthood, Work, Disabilities, and Family
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