Leading with Purpose: The Trailblazing Journey of Alice G. Gosfield in Health Law


Alice G. Gosfield is a distinguished figure within the legal industry, serving as the owner of a two-person nano-firm devoted to a national health law practice. Her journey into law began with pragmatic considerations, opting for a degree that promised a quicker path compared to other pursuits like diplomacy or a Ph.D. in French. However, it was a pivotal summer job between her second and third year of law school that ignited her passion for health law—a field that resonated deeply with her due to her upbringing around medicine. We, at EliteX, are honored to have Alice G. Gosfield as one of the Impactful Leaders in Legal Industry, 2024.

Since founding her firm in 1986, Alice has been instrumental in shaping health law into a recognized practice area, contributing significantly to its development. Her dedication and commitment to serving the legal needs of physicians on regulatory and transactional matters have been unwavering, despite initial challenges in educating potential clients about the necessity of her services. In Alice’s view, the qualities essential for a successful leader in the legal industry include integrity, excellence, expertise, and openness. She exemplifies these traits through her approach to leadership, notably demonstrated during her tenure as President of the National Health Lawyers Association.

“Public interest work isn’t just about giving back; it’s about broadening our understanding and impact, shaping policy, and ensuring a more just and equitable society.” – Alice G. Gosfield

One significant challenge Alice faced early in her career was the task of garnering recognition for her niche practice area. Through proactive measures such as public speaking engagements and publishing, she successfully attracted clients from across the country, establishing herself as a thought leader in the field. To stay abreast of the latest trends and developments in the legal field, Alice and her firm actively participate in professional organizations like the American Health Law Association. Additionally, they engage with non-lawyer organizations to gain insights into client interests and utilize various informational resources such as newsletters and blogs. As a leader, Alice has had to make tough decisions, such as implementing strategic planning within the Health Lawyers organization. Despite facing resistance from some quarters, she remained resolute in her conviction and rallied support from the majority of the leadership, ultimately steering the organization towards a more sustainable future.

For aspiring lawyers aiming to become impactful leaders in the legal industry, Alice offers pragmatic advice: actively engage with professional organizations, volunteer for meaningful work, and fearlessly voice your opinions. By embodying these principles, aspiring lawyers can navigate their careers with purpose and drive meaningful change within the legal profession.

Alice G. Gosfield’s career is punctuated by numerous accolades and milestones, each underscoring her dedication to excellence in the legal profession. Among these, her inclusion in the prestigious Best Lawyers in America list stands out, particularly her recognition as one of the top thirty and later top twenty-five health lawyers in the country. Notably, she was the sole practitioner primarily focused on physicians to receive this honor, a testament to her unparalleled expertise and contributions to the field. Additionally, her tenure as President of the National Health Lawyers Association in 1992 marked a pivotal moment in her career, solidifying her reputation as a leader in health law.

“Technology isn’t just shaping the future of law; it’s reshaping how we communicate, collaborate, and serve our clients. Embracing it is not an option; it’s a necessity.” – Alice G. Gosfield

Regarding the role of technology in shaping the future of the legal profession, Alice recognizes its paramount importance, especially in communication. Embracing electronic communication as the cornerstone of her practice, she underscores the significance of artificial intelligence in reshaping legal workflows. In her nano-firm, technology permeates every aspect of operation, from communication to marketing, with a streamlined approach that eschews traditional administrative roles in favor of efficiency.

Public interest work has been integral to Alice’s practice, enriching her understanding of healthcare issues beyond the legal realm. Through her involvement in non-profit organizations and committees such as the National Committee for Quality Assurance and the Institute of Medicine, she has contributed to shaping public policy on critical healthcare matters. This multidisciplinary engagement has broadened her perspective and enhanced her ability to address clients’ needs within a broader context. Building a national practice from a small firm has been a testament to Alice’s strategic approach and exceptional communication skills. Leveraging her expertise through public speaking engagements and publications, she has cultivated a wide network of connections across the country and beyond. Her commitment to sharing knowledge has not only facilitated the growth of her practice but has also positioned her as a trusted authority in health law.

In summary, Alice G. Gosfield’s career exemplifies a blend of expertise, innovation, and dedication to serving her clients and advancing the legal profession. Her achievements underscore the profound impact of proactive leadership and a commitment to lifelong learning and public service.

“In the legal profession, dedication, excellence, and openness are not just qualities; they are the pillars upon which impactful leadership stands.” – Alice G.  Gosfield