R.J. Lara is an associate attorney at Foley Mansfield with five years of experience in civil defense litigation, concentrating her practice in asbestos and talc defense. She represents clients in complex tort matters, bringing a meticulous and investigative approach to exposure analysis, witness investigation, and case strategy.

Prior to joining Foley Mansfield, R.J. gained valuable defense experience at Mayo Clinic, where she worked in medical malpractice defense. That background sharpened her ability to navigate technically demanding cases and evaluate complex factual records — skills she brings directly to her work in toxic tort defense at Foley Mansfield.

R.J. enjoys rowing and competed at the collegiate level. She also enjoys salsa dancing and values spending time with her family, including her adopted teenage daughter and her pets.