We recently connected with Skylar Hagen and have shared our conversation below.
Skylar, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Before we get into specifics, let’s talk about success more generally. What do you think it takes to be successful?
Success requires perseverance, adaptability, and a genuine commitment to clients’ needs. As the managing attorney at Hagen and Associates PLLC, I’ve learned that success often comes from going the extra mile, whether it’s gathering additional evidence in a tough personal injury case to secure a fair settlement or expanding our practice areas to meet the evolving demands of our clients. Adaptability and persistence have allowed us to achieve strong results while maintaining high standards of service.
Being the managing attorney requires balancing the business aspects of the firm along with client advocacy. I often remind my team that success isn’t just winning cases—it’s making sure clients feel heard and supported throughout the legal process. A story that resonates with me involves a client who wasn’t just looking for legal advice, but for reassurance. We won her case, but what she valued most was our consistent communication and empathy. That experience underscored the importance of the human element in our work.
Skylar, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I’m the managing attorney of Hagen and Associates PLLC, where we focus on personal injury law, labor and employment law, estate planning, and civil litigation. I’ve always had a passion for advocating for others, and my journey into the legal field began with my desire to provide meaningful support to individuals during some of their most challenging times. I started my career in military justice, serving as an Air Force Assistant Staff Judge Advocate, where I gained significant experience in litigation, legal strategy, and negotiation. This experience, coupled with my time in private practice, shaped my approach to law—always client-focused and results-driven.
At Hagen and Associates, we provide a range of legal services, including personal injury cases like car accidents and slip-and-falls, workplace disputes such as wrongful termination and sexual harassment, as well as estate planning services like drafting wills and trusts. We take pride in solving problems that matter to our clients—whether that’s securing compensation after an accident, defending an individual’s civil rights, or ensuring their family’s future is protected through comprehensive estate planning.
What sets us apart is our personalized approach. Every case is unique, and we take the time to understand each client’s needs and craft tailored legal strategies to address them. Our goal is not just to win cases, but to provide our clients with peace of mind during what can be a stressful legal process.
I’m most proud of the trust our clients place in us and the strong results we’ve achieved on their behalf. We’re known for our relentless pursuit of justice, whether it’s negotiating favorable settlements or fighting aggressively in court. Ultimately, we want our clients to know that they have a dedicated advocate in their corner who will go above and beyond to achieve the best outcome possible.
Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?
The most effective strategy for growing my clientele has been authenticity and connection. As an African American woman with pink hair, I believe my presence immediately signals to clients that I value diversity and inclusion. People feel comfortable speaking with me because they know I do not discriminate or hold unconscious biases that place anyone above another. Being a woman allows me to resonate deeply with other women, particularly those who feel voiceless in the legal system. As an African American, I connect with people of color who may feel that their concerns often go unheard.
Ultimately, I am an advocate for justice, and that resonates with everyone who walks through our doors. My clients know that I will fight for them, regardless of their background or situation, and this trust has been key to growing my practice. By creating an environment where all people feel seen, heard, and valued, I’ve been able to build lasting relationships and a strong reputation.
Any advice for managing a team?
Managing a team with compassion and creativity starts with genuinely caring about the individuals you lead. My advice is to focus on open communication, empathy, and providing space for people to grow. Make sure each team member feels heard and appreciated—listen to their ideas, celebrate their successes, and understand their challenges.
It’s also important to foster a positive work environment where creativity is encouraged. I like to create opportunities for my team to collaborate on projects, offering them the freedom to express their own ideas and solutions. When people feel like they’re part of something meaningful and their contributions matter, it boosts morale naturally.
Another key to high morale is balance—encouraging wellness and flexibility. Life is demanding, and showing compassion when someone needs time to recharge or manage personal matters builds loyalty and trust. Small gestures, like team check-ins or occasional time off for mental health, go a long way in ensuring people feel valued and supported.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://hagenandassociates.com
- Instagram: @hagenassociates
- Facebook: http://facebook.com/hagenassociatespllc/
- Linkedin: Skylar Hagen