When did you know you wanted to become a family law attorney? Why?
I was inspired to go to law school after my own experiences going through divorce and providing emotional support to friends going through divorce. I was eager to learn about the law and wanted to put it to use to represent people going through what can be one of the hardest times in their lives. When children are involved, I feel strongly that their needs should be front and center. I have empathy for what our clients are going through, and I love working to protect parents’ and children’s rights.
How has the pandemic affected your work and family life? What advice do you have for families working through this?
I am working from home full-time while my son and my partner’s children are schooling from home full-time. A lot of days all four kids and I are on the computer for a huge portion of the day and our social interactions happen through a screen. I’ve had to figure out a way to embrace this new way of working and learning. I find I’m able to work amazingly well from home, but I miss the camaraderie of seeing my co-workers each day.
My advice is to get outside as much as possible! And find ways to interact with people in person a safe way. I’m a huge fan of outdoor social distance visits with family and friends.
As an attorney in an all-women law firm that values diversity to reflect the clients you serve, are there any candidates or groups this election cycle that inspire you?
I continue to be inspired by Ruth Bader Ginsburg because of the hurdles she had to overcome, her incredible strength and brilliance, her convictions, and her ability to stay true to what she believed in. I am inspired by people and groups that have her integrity, and who stand up for civil rights, human rights, and climate change solutions.
I am also inspired by my mother, who has worked tirelessly her entire career (and now, post-retirement) in the low-income housing sector. I am inspired by Amanda’s (Amanda DuBois, law firm partner) never-ending energy and work for Civil Survival. I wish there were more politicians who inspired me as much as the people in my daily life.
What community groups or organizations have personally moved you to act through services, donations or volunteering? Is there a particular group you are currently passionate about?
I used to be a dancer and worked for years for a local arts nonprofit. I have served on the boards of dance companies and volunteered my skills in finance to act as treasurer for many groups my son has been active with over the years. More recently I trained as a mediator and volunteered for the King County Dispute Resolution Center. I have also worked to provide free legal services to people who do not have the resources to afford them.
When you are not helping clients with their cases, what do you do for fun?
I like to be active – I love to do anything outdoors with my family, from hiking, skiing, biking, playing at the beach to just going on long walks with our dog. My son decided he wants to surf, so I tried that a few times this summer. I also love cooking and have been trying to garden more.
