I didn’t even meet a lawyer until I was in my mid 20s. Obviously, law is not my first profession, but I did start my career as an advocate. I worked with domestic violence and sexual assault victims at a shelter in interior Alaska, often seeing the same clients come back multiple times. I noted that those who had access to attorneys didn’t return to the shelter nearly as often.
Throughout my career in victim services, I became passionate about transformative and restorative justice. After supporting a victim through an attempted murder trial, I felt motivated to go to law school. I choose to practice family law because I never wanted my wins or losses in court to result in someone being incarcerated—and I’m committed to helping people find a way to end relationships safely.
My work with survivors of violence has given me the ability to navigate complex situations with nuance. Family law situations are dynamic. I appreciate that people can, and do, sometimes change their minds. I believe people are experts on their own lived experience. My job as an attorney is to help clients accomplish legal goals they know to be in their best interest.
Born in Texas, where all my extended family lives, my parents were in the military and I moved a lot as a kid. Spending my teenagerhood in Germany, I had been to 22 different schools by the time I graduated. Military communities have higher than average rates of divorce. It felt like everyone I knew had been impacted by divorce in some way or another.
My husband was also in the Army, and we ended up in Washington when he got stationed at JBLM, near Tacoma. We love living here, with the food culture, temperate climate, and access to the outdoors. I graduated with my JD from Seattle University, and it feels good to put down roots.
Inspired by Amanda’s career, I felt confident that she was the best person to teach me how to be an attorney, and I came to this firm to learn. I like the supportive culture of DLLG, especially the way that everyone in the firm prioritizes mentorship and growth. This culture is the opposite of everything negative I was ever told a firm would be. Working with this team makes me feel inspired, and excited to grow as an attorney.
DLLG is great at working with clients with different needs and different perspectives. From support through complex litigation to exploring separation options, our legal services are tailored to be client-centered, leaving them empowered in their decision making.
My husband and I have been together for 15 years, now with 3 kids and 3 dogs in tow. Like many Pacific Northwesterners, my family loves camping and hiking. We also enjoy combing beaches for sea glass and taking every opportunity for whale watching.
