Getting to Know: Priya Pasricha
Priya K. Pasricha, an associate at Hoguet Newman Regal & Kenney, LLP, is an experienced litigator specializing in civil litigation, criminal defense, white collar and government investigation matters. Before joining HNRK in April 2023, Priya was a criminal defense and white collar associate at Meister Seelig & Fein LLP. A bit more about Priya follows.
As a women-owned boutique based exclusively in New York, HNRK is a unique place to work. What drew you to the firm?
I could tell from the partners I interviewed with that HNRK was a special place to work. A first good sign was all the partners I spoke with had started out as associates at the firm, and “grew up” here. Also, I could tell that they truly cared about the firm’s employees as human beings and wanted to help advance their professional development. I see this in action today and am grateful to have such empowering leaders to learn from.
What influenced you to become a litigator?
I’ve always loved defending people – from protecting my friend from bullies who were teasing her on the school bus to representing defendants accused of violent crimes. Litigation is a perfect fit for me because I get to unleash my true nature as a fierce advocate – especially for an underdog (Let’s Go Mets!) – for the benefit of our clients and the firm at large.
What is something most people don’t know about you?
I love the ocean and am passionate about marine wildlife! In college, I interned at the Marine Mammal Stranding Center in Brigantine, New Jersey and was a docent at the New York Aquarium in Brooklyn before law school. Did you know that orcas or “killer whales” are actually part of the dolphin (not whale) family?
What is one thing you cannot live without and why?
Besides my loved ones, I’d have to say my budding garden. Gardening is a newfound hobby, and I’ve been cultivating plants from seedlings, including a tomato that I planted from a seed I found within a ripe tomato! I continue to watch in awe as they grow, seemingly responding to my off-tune singing, and beautify my home.
What are your favorite things to do outside of work?
You can spot me spontaneously exploring different parts of NYC with my fiancé, eating at hidden gem restaurants with my family (after we debate where to eat for 45 minutes), and hiking with my dog, Abby the Labby, who is a master rescuer (of tennis balls).
What is the most rewarding part of your job as an attorney?
Litigation is often stressful for clients – nobody initiates or defends a lawsuit for fun. But helping clients work through the stress and guide them to a light at the end of the tunnel is very gratifying.