Jeralin R. Cardoso

SAN DIEGO - With a specialty in health care law, Jeralin Cardoso at Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP focuses on the business and strategic needs of medical groups, physician organizations and health care-focused private equity funds.

While the transactions can be complex, Cardoso is lauded for her ability to explain the matters in a way that's practical and understandable for her clients.

She said one of the most rewarding aspects of her job is helping clients reach their goals. She often works alongside clients to help develop the strategic direction of the organization, including collaboration on governance structures and compensation systems for future success.

"There is a lot to navigate within health care law, so we must not only understand the regulatory requirements, but also work with clients in thoughtful and innovative ways to address the obstacles along the way to achieving their business objectives," she said. Cardoso said health care law is exciting and challenging due to the continually evolving landscape for health care services. The industry is constantly being shaped by new rules, regulations or interpretations, or the application and advancement of technology, she said.

"This, of course, is also one of the biggest challenges--developing and expanding health care law at the same rate in which the health care industry is growing and evolving," she said. "I am grateful for the opportunity to play a part in the evolution of our health care system and even more so, to do that alongside my colleagues and clients at Sheppard Mullin."

In April, Cardoso served as lead transactional counsel to Pearl Health and its affiliated medical practice, the Perlman Clinic, which provides family medicine, mental health and other treatments to thousands of patients in the San Diego area.

Cardoso said she feels proud to play a role in helping her clients as mental health becomes a greater component of health care. "Being able to represent an organization dedicated to providing high-quality health care in my own community is something I take great pride in," she said.

Cardoso also served as lead transactional counsel to Amulet Capital Partners in its recapitalization of Lighthouse Behavioral Health Solutions in March 2022. Lighthouse is a leading network of outpatient substance abuse and mental health treatment facilities headquartered in Columbus, Ohio.

As for advice for new lawyers deciding which career path to follow, Cardoso's advice is to pursue one's passions.

"You have to be passionate about what you do," she said. "I truly enjoy helping clients work through complex situations and creating solutions within the legal parameters, and in my experience, clients recognize that."

New lawyers looking to further a career in health care, she said, should take the time to learn about the industry and each client's business.

"It is imperative to understand the law and the aspects of the legal documents, but other key elements to becoming a successful lawyer are being able to identify the drivers of success in a business, recognize any obstacles a business may be facing, and analyze financial statements," she said. "In health care, things are constantly changing, so the ability to continuously learn and adapt is crucial."