Meet the Member — Pascale Longuet
In this member spotlight, Pascale shares the career challenges that shaped her journey, the principles that guide her work, and her advice for the next generation of international legal professionals. Drawing on decades of cross-border legal experience, Pascale and her team provide strategic U.S. legal counsel to French and French-speaking businesses expanding into North American markets. The Office’s practice focuses on corporate and commercial law, including entity formation, recapitalizations, mergers and acquisitions, corporate governance, and the negotiation and drafting of sophisticated commercial agreements.
What is the biggest career challenge you’ve had to overcome?
I would say the biggest challenge in my career was starting my own legal practice in New York. Building a firm from the ground up meant finding clients, earning their trust, and developing long-term relationships based on confidence and results. It also meant holding myself to the highest professional standards every day and making sure that every client received thoughtful, high-quality legal advice delivered with integrity.
Looking back, it was a challenging experience, but also one of the most rewarding because it allowed me to build a practice that truly reflects my values and the way I believe clients should be served.
What professional advice do you live by?
Attempt to always act with integrity, keep learning, and never lose sight of the client's objectives. Laws and regulations evolve, but professionalism, preparation, quality of work, and respect for others remain the foundation of a successful career. I've found that when you approach your work with curiosity, humility, and genuine commitment, the rest tends to follow.
What advice would you give to your younger self or someone just getting started in your industry?
I would encourage anyone starting out in law to stay curious and keep an open mind. If you're interested in international law, don't hesitate to study or work abroad. Learning about different legal systems and cultures will make you a stronger lawyer and broaden your perspective.
Strong English skills are essential if you want to work internationally, and an American law degree can be a tremendous asset for understanding the complexity of the U.S. legal system.
Most importantly, build your career on integrity, professionalism, and a genuine
willingness to learn. Your reputation will always be one of your greatest strengths.
What do you love most about your job?
What I love most about my job is helping international clients navigate a legal system that can be unfamiliar and complex. I enjoy building bridges between different legal cultures and finding practical solutions to challenging situations. I also value the relationships I've built over the years—working with talented colleagues, meeting people from different backgrounds, and knowing that my work helps clients succeed with confidence.