With seven years at Steptoe & Johnson on Avenue of The Stars in Century City, law partner Robbin Itkin finds motivation in crafting creative solutions to often-complex bankruptcy and financial situations and cites the tranquility of her log-house in Montana as the ideal getaway.
What do you do in Century City?
I lead the West Coast business and financial restructuring group at Steptoe. I represent business from all industries and of all sizes. I work with high profile individuals and high net worth individuals both in and out of court. I also do a lot of out of court financial restructuring.
What motivated you to get into the role?
My love for people and the desire to bring business solutions to troubled financial situations continues to be my main motivator. I really enjoy being able to help people find creative solutions to their problems. My role allows me to use extensive negotiation and litigation skills, which is very gratifying. When you can help people out, it is very satisfying.
Where did it all begin for you career-wise?
I took a Business Law class when I was in high school and I just found it so exciting. I then attended UCLA and USC Law School and initially went to work at a large law firm. After a while I decided to do something difference and I moved into bankruptcy. It really is a very satisfying role; I am part psychologist and part lawyer. Bankruptcy is a very difficult time for people to go through – it affects people’s self, one’s family, and I get very close to people as I have all of their very personal intimate information.
What have been some of the highlights of your career?
Recently I was able to help a buyer buy a business that meant all of the employees could keep their jobs at the company. It was very rewarding – the other buyers wanted to liquidate and sell different parts of the business, so being able to ensure that the workers kept their jobs was great. I also represented the season-ticket shareholders in the Dodgers bankruptcy case, so I really get to work across a wide range of experiences. Another interesting case I’m involved in is serving as a Chapter 11 Trustee on a bankruptcy case, so actually managing the business side, and while I am always thinking about the legal aspects, the role is a really interesting change.
What do you love about Century City? Where is your favorite place to eat/exercise/take a break from the office in the area?
I love the freshness, beauty and liveliness of Century City, and the fact that whenever I am walking to or when I am going through the shopping or restaurant areas I see people I know. This provides for great networking and just catching up with friends. I often frequent the CAA building complex of restaurants and always attempt to see the latest exhibit at the Annenberg Space for Photography – you can’t beat the interesting exhibits or the price – it’s free! My restaurant favorites in the shopping mall are Gulfstream and The Counter.
If you could add one thing to the area what would it be and why?
A fun 50’s diner or ice-cream parlor with a jukebox – it would be a great place to unwind and hang out, just like in “Happy Days”! It would just be a really cool place; go hang out at the mall, grab some good basic food with people just to have a good time – plus I love ice cream, so it would have to have a great hot fudge sundae.
What do you do in you spare time?
I spend time with my husband and two Labrador Retrievers; see movies and have meals and hang out with friends and family; shop with my mom; and fly fish and enjoy the outdoors, preferably in Montana. We have had a log house there for quite some time, right near several excellent lakes.
What is one cool thing that you want to do this year?
I’d like to finally learn to play the drums. I tried it once and I have talked about doing this for years. I may have to invest in some padding for the garage!
Where was your last vacation?
Montana! What can I say? I love it there.
Where do you wish your last vacation was?
Actually, exactly where I was, in Montana with friends and family attending BBQ’s, the annual rodeo and driving my Jeep. I would like to spend more time overseas; traveling is so educational. I would really like to see Greece, India, Vietnam – I would go anywhere.
