Ana Preoteasa is an in-house disputes lawyer at PPC Energy in Romania, specializing in disputes in the energy, commercial, and administrative sectors. Before joining the company, she gained eight years of experience as a lawyer (member of Bucharest Bar, Romania), handling litigation across various areas of law.

Young EFILA:   What attracted you to a career in litigation/arbitration?

Ana Preoteasa: Initially, what drew me to litigation and arbitration was the field’s dynamic nature. It appeared to be fast-paced, involving practical problem-solving, and once I began working in this area, I found that to be absolutely true. Litigation, in particular, is not only about the legal framework, but brings together elements such as advocacy, strategy, and spontaneity. Creativity is required at the same time, because legal arguments are delivered not only in writing, but also presented in real time. Additionally, I appreciate the fact that disputes often involve a strong human element. Behind every case, there is a real issue that needs to be resolved. As a disputes lawyer, you play a crucial role in helping clients navigate conflicts and reach a resolution – often when the stakes are high. This aspect brings a sense of purpose to the activity.

YE:What is the best professional advice you have ever received?

A.P.: One of the best pieces of advice I’ve received as a litigator is: “It’s not enough to prepare your case – you also need to be equally ready for the other side’s arguments”. Representing a party to a dispute is not just about building legal arguments, but also about anticipating what the other side will say and where they might try to catch you off guard. This advice helped me understand the importance of strategic thinking. It also helped me develop a flexible approach, understanding that a good lawyer doesn’t rigidly stick to a script but is ready to adapt and respond in real time.

YE: What is the best lawyer hack you’ve learned over the years?

A.P.: One key tip is that a good disputes lawyer must have a thorough understanding of the facts of the case. Legal arguments matter, of course, but in most cases, it is the facts that determine the outcome. Judges often decide based on which side presents a clearer, more coherent version of the story, rather than on who cites more case law. Another hack is using clear, direct language, getting to the point quickly, and avoiding unnecessary jargon or over-complicated sentences. When writing legal documents for the court, I always assume the judge has limited time and is juggling multiple cases. Therefore, a good idea is to use informative headings that guide the reader, break up long paragraphs, and always highlight, not bury, the strongest facts and legal arguments.

YE: Who influenced your career the most?

A.P.: Looking back, I would say that I’ve been the one who has influenced my career decisions the most, based, of course, on the different contexts and opportunities that came along the way. I’ve made choices based on timing, instinct, and the circumstances I was facing, whether it was a chance to take on more responsibility, explore a new area of law, or step back and reassess direction. Flexibility has been crucial to me, and it has enabled me to grow both professionally and personally. Of course, I’ve had mentors and role models whose input I’ve valued, but ultimately, I’ve trusted my own judgment to decide.

YE: What qualities and skills make a good dispute lawyer?

A.P.: A good dispute lawyer must combine legal expertise with a strategic mindset and a high level of personal resilience. Firstly, having an analytical mind is helpful when dealing with a large amount of information, so knowing what truly matters and how to utilize it is essential. Secondly, communication skills are equally important. Whether in written documents or oral arguments, a good disputes lawyer must communicate in a clear and precise manner. Lastly, adaptability and emotional resilience are crucial traits. Disputes can be intense and unpredictable, so the ability to remain focused and composed under pressure is what often makes the difference.

YE: What do you think about work-life balance?

A.P.: Work-life balance is a topic that’s often discussed these days, especially by younger generations entering the legal profession. I think that’s a good thing. A sustainable work-life balance is essential – not just for your health, but also for staying focused and being efficient, especially as a professional working in the legal field. Litigation, by its nature, can be intense and unpredictable. Deadlines, court appearances, and last-minute developments don’t always fit neatly into a 9-to-5 schedule. Therefore, I see work-life balance not as a perfect split between hours, but as the ability to be present in both professional and personal areas of life. There are intense periods during trial preparation, but there are also moments when you can and should recharge. Ultimately, work-life balance isn’t a fixed formula, but a continuous process of aligning your career with your values and overall well-being.

YE: Do you have a hobby that helps you decompress?

A.P.: Working in law can be really demanding and sometimes stressful. To keep my mind clear and stay energized, I enjoy spending time outdoors in nature. Being outdoors and engaging in activities like hiking or simply taking a walk in the park helps me relax and recharge. For me, it’s a simple way to stay balanced while working in a busy environment.

YE: Thank you for your time, Ana!

**** This interview was conducted by Ioana Bratu and forms part of Young EFILA’s Interview Series with Arbitration Practitioners ****