Law.com features partner Hannah Cross in “How I Made Partner” series, which offers an inside look at the many unique career paths that can lead to law firm partnership. Cross, who focuses her practice on healthcare law, describes the excitement and enthusiasm from her Nelson Mullins colleagues at her election to the partnership. She said, “It is exceptionally meaningful for me to hear, or read, my firm colleagues introduce me as their ‘partner.’ ”

Cross also offered thoughtful insights for associates who want to make partner. She emphasized the need to invest early and often in their relationships with others at the firm and becoming actively engaged in client work, but also that it is important to take a thoughtful approach to their careers. She said, “My firm has been very supportive of the nonlegal aspects of my life, and indeed, it’s resulted in many colleagues becoming friends (and feeling like family). That perspective and balance makes the path to partnership smoother, calmer, and ultimately, more rewarding.”