By: Amanda Reseburg
Attorney Leah Wise recognized early in her career that she wanted to give back in a meaningful way, drawing on the mentoring and inspiration she had received while establishing her own law firm. She went on to found what is understood to be the first Latina-owned law firm in South Texas focused entirely on personal injury law. Since launching her legal practice in 2016, Wise has pursued a mission to inspire, advocate for, and mentor minority women considering a career in law, with a notable emphasis on supporting Latinas.
Wise’s interest in the legal field was sparked during a post-undergrad role working for a state senator. “I realized that one person could have an impact,” she says. “I was inspired by how these legislators advocated for their communities.” That early experience informed her path through law school and ultimately gave her the confidence to open her own firm immediately after passing the bar—an uncommon and ambitious move.
Pursuing Success and Breaking Barriers
Founding a law firm straight out of law school represented a bold step for a young minority woman, especially in a field still largely dominated by men. Within four years of launching her practice, Wise played a key role in securing a $7.9 million settlement in Texas—a result that helped her establish credibility and visibility within her field.
Since 2016, Wise has received several local recognitions, including being named “Best Attorney” by the Valley Morning Star Readers Choice and later being included in the 2021 “Best of Bar,” a distinction that reflects notable professional acknowledgment among legal peers. Despite this recognition, Wise has remained committed to community-oriented goals, continuing to prioritize efforts that empower other minority women to advance in their careers.
A Career Rooted in Giving Back
Philanthropy has been a consistent part of Wise’s approach to her work and public service. Having benefited from mentorship herself, she has become a strong advocate for support systems that uplift women, particularly those from underserved communities. Her nonprofit, the Wise Women Foundation, offers mentorship opportunities, educational resources, and support to minority women navigating challenges that may limit their access to opportunities in law or entrepreneurship.
The foundation aims to provide practical tools that allow women to explore career options, start businesses, or enter the legal profession. Rather than promising specific outcomes, the organization focuses on creating possibilities and removing barriers to entry.
Wise has also contributed financially to support future legal professionals through the Leah Wise Latina Student Hardship Fund at St. Mary’s University School of Law—her alma mater. The fund, valued at $50,000, assists Latina students facing difficult circumstances. “These students often reach out to me to express their gratitude,” she told The Good Men Project. “Some of their stories are incredibly heartbreaking—women in domestic violence situations, women fleeing violent partners, or women struggling to make ends meet while in law school and raising children.”
In addition to her foundation work, Wise leads the CrashGal Mentorship Group, which provides guidance and peer support for aspiring Latina lawyers. She has also supported organizations like Teach for America and the Family Crisis Center of the Rio Grande Valley. Her efforts include distributing menstrual hygiene products in schools across the Rio Grande Valley—an initiative that highlights her focus on dignity, education, and access.
Elevating Others Through Media and Entrepreneurship
Wise has used social media to spotlight and celebrate her community. She co-founded “Latina Feature Friday,” a recurring online segment that showcases Latina-owned businesses, and she hosts the “Coffee With CrashGal” podcast, which highlights women entrepreneurs. As one of the early adopters of social media marketing among personal injury attorneys in her region, Wise recognized the value of digital engagement and storytelling.
By using her platform to amplify local voices, Wise helps generate awareness and visibility for emerging businesses and professionals. Her content reflects a belief that women thrive when their efforts are acknowledged and shared.
Creating Space and Opportunity
In line with her entrepreneurial spirit, Wise has also branched into retail and real estate. She owns a boutique, CrashGal Couture, and has worked on various property ventures. Her most recent and unconventional move was the purchase of a shuttered strip club, Xoticas, in March 2023. Her goal? To repurpose the space as the new headquarters for her firm and a hub for her nonprofit and business initiatives.
“Purchasing Xoticas represented a pivotal moment for our growth and evolution,” Wise says. She envisions transforming the property into a welcoming and professional space where clients—many of whom seek representation during difficult times—can feel supported by a fully female staff.
Looking Ahead
Wise continues to build her legacy as someone dedicated to justice and empowerment. Whether she’s representing clients, mentoring young attorneys, or launching community initiatives, her work reflects a desire to open doors that were once difficult for her to access.
While every career path is unique and outcomes vary, Wise’s story demonstrates what can happen when persistence, community support, and purpose align. Her ongoing commitment to minority women in law and entrepreneurship serves as both inspiration and invitation: to participate, to lead, and to lift others as they rise.
