Building a Criminal Defense Firm in Wyoming: Bailey Lazari’s Story

Welcome to another episode of Trial by Fire, hosted by Julia Hensel. Trial by Fire is a podcast featuring women lawyers across the United States who stepped into ownership, built their own firms, and created practices on their own terms. In this episode, Bailey Lazzari traces her path from public defender to criminal defense attorney and firm owner in Wyoming. She opens up about launching her own practice early on, making the leap into private work, handling a demanding caseload, cultivating a team culture that lasts, and carving out room for the personal passions that keep her grounded. If you're a woman working in the legal field, a firm owner, or anyone weighing the idea of striking out on your own, Bailey's story delivers real insight into courage, mentorship, the role of community, and what it takes to build a legal career on your own terms. 00:00 Introduction to Bailey Lazzari's Story 02:59 Inspiration Behind Choosing Law 05:59 The Leap to Starting a Firm 08:47 Geographic Migration to Wyoming 12:00 Challenges in Early Career 14:56 Transitioning to Private Practice 17:57 Building a Business and Team Culture 20:57 Meaningful Cases and Client Relationships 25:03 Life Outside of Law 28:06 Future Aspirations for the Firm 29:50 Advice for Aspiring Women Lawyers About Bailey Lazari For Bailey Lazzari, criminal defense was never just about winning cases. It was about standing beside people during the worst moments of their lives. That conviction is what led her to open Lazzari Legal, LLC in 2017, growing it into a firm known across Wyoming for defending clients in state, federal, and tribal courts against charges ranging from traffic offenses to serious felonies. Her work hasn't gone unnoticed either, with honors like the Wyoming Trial Lawyers Association Rising Star recognition, a place on the National Trial Lawyers' Top 40 Under 40, and repeated Avvo Clients' Choice Awards. But ask her clients what sets her apart, and they'll point to something simpler: she treats their fight as her own, blending sharp legal skill with the kind of care that makes people feel genuinely defended. About Julia Hensel Julia Hensel is the host of Trial by Fire and the CEO of both Lexigate and Repspert, two companies built around helping law firms grow and thrive. She spends her days thinking about what makes a practice succeed, from the business side to the people behind it, and that work has given her a deep admiration for the women who take ownership. That admiration is what sparked this podcast. Trial by Fire is her space to sit down with women lawyers, hear their stories, and celebrate the grit, wisdom, and quiet courage it takes to build something on your own terms. Subscribe for more conversations with women lawyers who are leading, building, and redefining success in law. #Trialbyfire #WomenInLaw #WomenLawyers #WomenAttorneys