Supplier Spotlight: Heather Tabor
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Name: Heather Tabor
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Tell us about your career:
My path to becoming an attorney was shaped by hands-on experience long before I ever stepped into a courtroom. Before joining Brownlee, Whitlow, & Praet, I spent over three years as a Floating Property Manager in residential property management. In that role, I navigated a wide range of challenges—balancing operational demands, resident relations, and compliance issues across multiple communities. That experience gave me more than just technical knowledge; it gave me a deep understanding of the day-to-day realities faced by property managers and housing providers. It’s a perspective I carry with me into every case and conversation.
When I joined Brownlee, Whitlow, & Praet, I was drawn to the firm’s commitment to not just practicing law, but to partnering with clients. Since then, I’ve grown into the role of Managing Attorney, where I balance legal casework with a strong focus on leadership and mentorship. I support a talented team of associates and staff, ensuring we approach each case with thoroughness, empathy, and a solutions-driven mindset. Whether it’s through case strategy, client education, or industry volunteering, my goal is to empower those we serve and contribute to long-term success—not just quick fixes.
What truly fuels my work is the intersection of legal knowledge and practical insight. I believe clients are best served when their attorney not only understands the law, but also understands them—their operations, their pressures, and their goals. That belief guides every aspect of my practice.
What advice do you have for someone just starting in your field:
Never underestimate the power of relationships. Your legal knowledge will grow with time and experience—but what will truly set you apart is your ability to build trust, listen actively, and connect with the people around you.
Whether it's with your clients, colleagues, opposing counsel, or industry partners, every relationship matters. Take time to understand the people behind the cases. Be approachable, be reliable, and be the kind of person others want to collaborate with—not just because you’re competent, but because you genuinely care.
Some of the best insights, referrals, and opportunities I’ve received didn’t come from a textbook—they came from conversations, shared experiences, and mutual respect built over time. In this profession, your reputation is your currency, and relationships are what sustain it.
So ask questions, show up consistently, and nurture the connections you make. This industry is challenging, but it’s also full of incredible people. Invest in those relationships early, and they will carry you further than you can imagine.
Anything else you would like to share:
If there’s one thing I’ve learned along the way, it’s that your career doesn’t have to follow a straight line to be successful. My journey into law was shaped by real-world experience, not a perfectly mapped plan—and I’m grateful for that. It taught me to lead with empathy, to stay curious, and to always look for the human element in every legal challenge.
I also believe it’s important to bring your whole self to your work. The lessons I’ve learned through travel, family, and volunteering have made me a better attorney and a stronger leader. This profession can be demanding, but it’s also incredibly rewarding when you remember why you started—and who you’re doing it for.
Whether you’re just starting out or finding your next chapter, don’t be afraid to lean into what makes you different. That’s often where your greatest strengths are hiding.