What Is My Why? – Justice Through Compassion
Why did I want to become a lawyer and why do I practice family law and criminal defense? For me, the answer has always been rooted in justice and empathy. I believe that the law is more than statutes and procedures. It is a system meant to protect people, give them a voice, and ensure fairness. My mission is to use my skills to guide people through some of the hardest moments of their lives with integrity, diligence, and compassion.
From the time I was young, I was fascinated by the law. In 9th grade, when I first studied civics and the judicial system, I knew this was my calling. The law felt like a puzzle to me. Something that required patience, analysis, and creativity to solve. I never saw it as “arguing” or proving a point. I saw it as applying written rules to real people’s lives in a way that could change outcomes for the better.
My journey confirmed this purpose again and again. In law school, I realized how deeply people needed help in family law. I worked in clinics and programs where I saw families struggling through divorce, custody disputes, and domestic violence. I interned at the Divorce Law Project and at Neighborhood Legal Services, where I met clients who often felt voiceless and overwhelmed. Helping them navigate the process showed me how much of a difference a strong, empathetic advocate could make. Later, working for Judge Henry-Taylor gave me an even deeper perspective on how decisions affect people’s futures. Those experiences shaped not only my career path but also my values.
I connect with my clients because I’ve walked through my own challenges. Life has taught me perseverance and resilience, and it has given me a deep empathy for those who feel stuck or alone. I know what it’s like to feel unsure of your future and I know what it takes to choose a new path forward. That understanding shapes the way I practice law: I listen closely, I fight hard, and I make sure every client knows their story has been heard.
One of the most meaningful moments in my career so far was handling a three-day custody trial for a mother of three who was escaping domestic violence. After presenting her case, we secured sole custody, giving her and her children safety and stability. That moment reminded me why I do this work… because the law can truly protect, empower, and change lives.
My personal mission is to ensure that everyone who comes to me feels respected, understood, and strongly represented. Success for me is not only in the outcome, but in knowing my clients walk away with confidence that they had a true advocate by their side. I want my legacy to be that I practiced law with integrity, determination, heart, and that I used my skills to make justice feel both real and human.
