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Interview by: Mom&I
Photo by Moim Studio
Most people rarely encounter a law firm in their lives. It could be fortunate to never meet a lawyer, unless one is dealing with immigration status changes, divorce, accidents, or other legal issues. In the U.S., even resolving a speeding ticket might involve a lawyer, making encounters a bit more familiar compared to Korea. We met Eunmi Hwang, who was living a fiercely artistic life before embarking on a completely different journey as a lawyer midway through her life. It is one of those professions you wish to not cross paths with—but the achievements, knowledge, and experiences embodied in her career evoke curiosity. Let us delve into the sincere passions she harbors for both her past as an artist and her current mission as a lawyer.
Circumstances led her to the theater district instead of university. She loved theater, perhaps as an escape during adolescence or as a result of her challenging circumstances. She took a shot at a theater and film department but pursued theater life secretly instead of enrolling in a university course. She later entered Yonsei University’s rehabilitation medicine department but soon dropped out, her mind still longing for theater despite her scientific propensity. Eunmi joined Seoul Institute of the Arts' theater department as a directing major, finding happiness in enduring the rigorous study and practice under a professor from Columbia University.
Her life’s turning point came with a scholarship opportunity for a summer exchange program in Los Angeles, which led to an unexpected settlement in the U.S. None of her previous plans involved a long stay in America, but here she stands as a lawyer today.
Reflecting on her time with the law firm Maggiano, Digirolamo & Lizzi P.C., Hwang is passionate about ensuring Asian Americans receive adequate legal representation. During a job interview, founder Maggiano stressed the lack of Korean jurors in courtrooms, urging Korean voices to echo within the American legal system. This inspired a mission within Hwang to help the Korean community access high-level legal services.
Though anyone can have the intention to assist others, maintaining such efforts over time is challenging. The firm’s 40-year commitment to advocating for minority rights and supporting the vulnerable was a significant influence on Hwang, marking a newfound purpose in her legal career.
After participating in a theater exchange in LA, Hwang ventured into New York to join a Korean theatre team, where language barriers necessitated an interpreter. It was the interpreter who became her husband, reinforcing the notion that while destiny is divinely appointed, humans shape their journey.
Married and relocated to the U.S. in 2005, Hwang encountered challenges and identity shifts. Unable to rely solely on acting, she adapted, navigating unfamiliar landscapes with resilience.
Driven by a desire to improve her English, Hwang embarked on LSAT preparation and entered law school. Her transition from an artist to a lawyer at the age of 38 is both a unique and shared experience with many immigrants. Her narrative is less a daily drama and more of a richly-filmed, 16-episode mini-series.
Continuing to support Korean theater groups and pondering her contribution to immigrant society, Hwang found meaningful work in aiding those with experiences similar to hers. She focuses on addressable legal issues like accidents and injuries, providing guidance to clients who might otherwise lack access to necessary information.
Despite the ongoing novelty of her role as a lawyer, Hwang appreciates the expanded opportunities to serve her community. Although her eyes glisten with nostalgia for her artistic past, her skillset as an artist enriches her legal practice, combining elements of Dionysius with Apollo’s discerning wisdom.
The clients who seek out Hwang are indeed fortuitous to be guided by someone with her analytical and empathetic capabilities.
After moving to the U.S. in 2005 and graduating from Syracuse University Law School, Eunmi Hwang is now practicing at Maggiano, Digirolamo & Lizzi P.C.
Contact: ehwang@maggianolaw.com
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