Samar Gamal”: The Story of a Lawyer Who Built Her Name from Scratch – Strength Born from Challenges to Become the Voice of Justice

Cairo – Mostafa El-Masry:

Her journey was never a straight line; it was filled with turning points and challenges. from her hometown in Sharqia to Ismailia, from studying sociology and earning a diploma in speech therapy to stepping into the world of law, attorney Samar Gamal carved out a shining name for herself through determination and hard work.

Personal experiences changed the course of her life 360 degrees, enabling her to leave her mark in courtrooms and become an inspiration for ambitious young men and women who aspire to pursue a legal career.

In this interview, Samar Gamal reveals details about her beginnings, the major obstacles she faced as a woman in a field some consider too demanding for females, how she managed to balance her personal life with professional pressure, and her message to law students and future lawyers.

To begin, how did your journey start, and what led you to choose law as a profession?

My beginnings were in Sharqia, where I was raised, before moving to Ismailia. I graduated from the Faculty of Arts, Department of Sociology, and earned a diploma in speech therapy.

It was expected that I would continue in that field. However, a deeply personal incident turned my life upside down, and I decided to study law and join the Faculty of Law.

What were your first steps in the legal world?

The greatest credit goes to attorney Ahmed Khreibah, who never withheld knowledge from me, supported my journey, and opened doors to success. After many life experiences and much effort and persistence, I managed to build a reputable name for myself, which encouraged me to establish my own law office.

Who was your biggest supporter at the start of your career?

My sister is my greatest supporter today. My mother was my strongest support in the past, but sadly she passed away when I was 22. As for my father, he died before I was born, so I never had the chance to meet him.

What were the biggest challenges you faced as a female lawyer in Egypt?

After entering the world of law, I worked with several major international firms in Kuwait, where I received high salaries and gained diverse experience. This inspired me to seek greater recognition for my name and establish my own office.

I partnered with an Egyptian lawyer in Kuwait who had trained under me and learned from my experience—he had no prior expertise in the field. I managed the entire office, trained young lawyers, and attracted clients.

However, during one of my vacations, I was shocked to discover that he had changed the office name and excluded me from all my rights and efforts.

This was the biggest blow of my life, but it strengthened my character and made me even more resilient.

On a broader level, women in law face additional challenges compared to men—ranging from envy to skepticism about their abilities.

Yet I believe the secret to a female lawyer’s success lies in her knowledge, practical experience, and appearance, which reflects respect for both her profession and her clients.

How do you balance your personal life with work pressure?

I learned to separate work from my personal life. Once I close my office door, I leave all case matters behind and return to being myself at home. This balance gives me the energy to give more and succeed.

What type of cases are closest to your heart?

Criminal cases are my greatest passion, and I dedicate my full energy to them. Still, I work across all types of cases and have gained broad practical experience in various legal fields.

What case or experience left the deepest mark on you?

The betrayal of the lawyer in Kuwait, who trained under me and then exploited my efforts, remains the most painful experience.

It was a true example of the saying: “He who entrusts a wolf has betrayed himself.” It was harsh but taught me to start again with greater strength.

What skills do you believe are essential for young lawyers?

Continuous learning, good reputation and client relations, and attention to appearance—it’s an integral part of the image of a successful lawyer.

How do you see technology and AI affecting the legal profession?

Technology has become essential, and I always strive to keep up with it. We must leverage it to our advantage rather than resist it—the world will not wait for anyone.

What is your message to aspiring law students?

Patience, hard work, and resilience in the face of challenges. Success is never easy, but it is always possible with will power and persistence.

Who is your role model in law?

The late renowned lawyer Farid El-Deeb.

Do you have a dream case you wish to handle?

Every case for me is like my very first one—I dedicate all my time, effort, and passion to it.

Outside of law, what are your hobbies?

I love sports and going to the gym. As the saying goes: “A sound mind in a sound body.” This keeps me energized and positive.

About Attorney & Legal Consultant Samar Gamal’s Office

Located in the heart of Dokki, directly across from the Judges’ Club on the Nile Street, the office of attorney Samar Gamal stands as a testament to an ambitious legal journey. She did not settle for establishing a successful practice; her dream is to expand it into a network of law offices both inside and outside Egypt, enabling her to serve society and defend justice on a wider scale.Between ambition and persistence, Samar Gamal continues her path, proving that justice is not merely a profession—it is a mission