Tell us a little about who you are and where you are from. 

 

I moved to Seattle right after law school.  I began my legal career as a public defender.  I eventually became an employment and labor attorney and HR Director.  For over 20 years, I served as a Protem judge in King County District. I am currently a municipal court judge.  I grew up in Cincinnati, OH and attended law school in the same city.

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Why did you become an attorney?

 

At the time I graduated from  college, I did not believe I would be able to obtain a job in my major.  Since everyone thought I would make a good lawyer I applied to law school.  

 

 

What is the most impactful thing you've been able to do with your law degree?

 

Assist others, particularly those from disadvantaged communities in navigating through institutional systems they are unfamiliar with.

 

 

Has your identity helped make you a better lawyer?  If so, in what way?

 

Yes. It has made me more empathic as an advisor and counselor especially when I am working with people from disadvantaged communities. 

 

 

Thinking about the future generation of diverse attorneys, what piece of advice do you have?

 

Always know your worth.  During your career, you will be faced with situations where others may not value what you bring to the table.  Do not let those negative interactions prevent you from bringing your talents and skills to the table.

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Why should we be concerned about the diversity of our profession?

 

We live in a diverse nation of people.  In order to ensure a fair and equitable justice system for all citizens, society must have legal representation that represents this diversity. 

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Thinking about going to law school, what is the one thing that you wish you would have known that you know now?

 

There really is life after law school.

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What was your top highlight of law school?

 

Graduation.

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What piece of advice do you have for diverse youth who are considering law school?

 

Understand why you want to go to law school.  Think about why having a law degree will be value added for your life goals.  You shouldn’t go to law school on a whim.  Considering the cost and time, you should attend law school because it is the education you desire to have. 

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Tell us about a mentor, professor, fellow student, friend, or family member that helped you succeed in law school.  Who was it and how did they help?

 

I would say my mother was my biggest support in law school.  I lived at home during law school.  I was able to attend school with her financial support.  She constantly reminded me why it was important for me to get a legal education and not to give up when things seemed difficult.