Inga Romm is an associate attorney in Tressler’s Litigation, Aviation, and Transportation Practice Groups in the Los Angeles, California, office. Inga represents clients across a wide range of industries and practice areas, including insurance defense, aviation litigation, and general liability matters.

Inga earned her B.A., graduating with honors, from the University of California, San Diego, and received her J.D. from Chapman University Dale E. Fowler School of Law.

Where are you from?

I was born and raised in Odesa, Ukraine, and moved to Los Angeles, California, when I was seventeen, shortly after graduating from high school.

What was your first job?

I was a teaching assistant at my alma mater, the University of California, San Diego. I have always known that I wanted a career working with and for people, whether through teaching, consulting, or advocating in court.

What is on your bucket list?

I am an avid hiker and feel incredibly lucky to live in California, where hiking opportunities are truly endless. Yosemite has long been at the top of my list, and I cannot wait to explore its trails. With Big Sur now open, I am also eager to take a scenic drive up the Pacific Coast Highway, stopping in Monterey, and soaking in the breathtaking views along the iconic 17-Mile Drive.

Why did you decide to become an attorney?

If you ask my parents, they will proudly say that becoming an attorney was their idea. While they certainly influenced my interest in law, it was my college professors who truly solidified my desire to pursue it as a profession.

What does a typical workday look like for you?

I like working from the office, so every day begins with the adventure of the infamous 405 freeway. It is not for the faint of heart, but what does not kill us makes us stronger—at least that is what I tell myself each morning. No two days are the same. Some start with a court appearance, others with a deposition, and most involve drafting something—whether it is discovery requests, responses, motions, or client reports. With every case having its own facts and priorities, there is never a dull moment.

Why did you choose your areas of practice?

I like to think the areas of practice actually chose me. I started at Tressler after my first year of law school, and like many first-year students, I had no clue what I wanted to do. I was fortunate, however, to meet attorneys who were not only experts in their fields but also generous mentors, willing to share their time and wisdom. Every senior attorney I have had the honor to work with—past and present—has shaped me into the lawyer I am today. And when the managing partner of your office happens to be a pilot and co-chair of the transportation practice group, it is hard to pass up that kind of opportunity!

Maintenance Day at Hawthorne Municipal Airport

Maintenance Day at Hawthorne Municipal Airport

What do you like most about Tressler?

As cheesy as it might sound, it is the Tressler community. Every person I have had the privilege to work with—secretaries, paralegals, attorneys—has been kind, patient, and welcoming, no matter which office or state they are in. In law school, we are often taught about hierarchy: only bother the senior attorney if you have tried everything else. At Tressler, everyone is treated as an equal and as an integral part of a team working toward a common goal of serving our clients to the best of our abilities.

What are you most proud of, professionally and/or personally?

I am the first person in my immediate family to attend college in the United States, graduate with honors, go to law school, and pass the California Bar Exam on the first try. While I am excited to see what the future holds, I am equally proud of the person I am becoming—both personally and professionally.

What has been the most defining moment of your career so far?

There is nothing quite like the moment a judge agrees with your argument and cites your case law in their ruling. The sense that your motion has made a real impact and influenced the direction of a case is truly indescribable.

What do you enjoy most about your current role?

I love how multifaceted my role is! As an associate, I am involved in every step of litigation, from drafting responsive pleadings and communicating with clients to attending the inspections and appearing before the judge. I never take any assignment for granted.