Bryce Kunimoto Endorses a Diverse Workforce and a Diverse Palate

The coolest trip I ever took was … when I studied abroad in Harare, Zimbabwe. I enjoyed safaris and trying new foods like eland, the largest antelope in Zimbabwe.

Since graduating law school … I have worked at the same firm for 18 years, though we did merge years ago. I have stayed because, among other things, they have supported my efforts, as chair of the diversity committee, to oversee and help implement a robust D&I plan. (It helps that we have a great firm culture, too.)

A professional hurdle that I routinely deal with … is despite almost two decades practicing law, people still tell me I have a youthful appearance.

I most admire … the men and women who serve/have served in the U.S. military.

The most annoying thing about my job is … when opposing counsel boasts about how many more years they’ve been practicing law. My usual response: “Well, then you will be having an uncomfortable discussion with your client when I win at trial.”

One aspect of my job that I find deeply satisfying is … serving as the chair of my firm’s Diversity Committee. Law firm diversity is not only the right thing to do, but many clients expect that their outside law firms be fully supportive of D&I efforts.

My favorite quote is … “I’ve lived through some terrible things in my life, some of which actually happened.” – Mark Twain. When I get worried about the future, I remind myself of this.

A good change to the profession would be …  seeing more qualified, diverse attorneys promoted to the partnership ranks. 

The most interesting food I ever ate … was probably crocodile. It does not taste like chicken.

One of the most rewarding experiences as a lawyer is … serving as pro bono counsel to abused and neglected children.

One thing that really bothers me is … when drivers don’t use their turn signals.

Most people don’t know that … I’m a foodie and enjoy traveling and eating local foods. If you’re ever in Tokyo, find Omoide Yokocho, the street alley where they sell yakitori (Japanese chicken skewers). Some of these food stalls focus on just a few signature dishes that have been perfected over years—sometimes decades.

My favorite news sources are … CNN and CNBC.

The quality I most like in a lawyer is … civility.

A different practice area that intrigues me is … white collar criminal defense work. While it’s still litigation work, it seems more focused on conducting internal investigations as opposed to seeking discovery from the other side.