What is your opinion regarding clients educating themselves on legal issues?
This is a great idea, and very helpful.
Are you willing to review documents prepared by clients?
I will do it as long as I have a crystal clear, carefully discussed and delineated relationship with the client.
Are you willing to coach clients who want to represent themselves?
Again, I will do this on a limited basis, for no longer than 3 hours, primarily to explain court procedure and clarify legal rights and responsibilities. Over 3 hours, I would ask the client to decide whether or not to retain my firm to handle the case.
Why did you decide to be a lawyer?
I had a real interest in understanding something that could be useful to others, and a love of studying constitutional law to understand the basis of our rights.
What work experience and education helps you be a better lawyer?
My volunteer work for Superior Court; since 1999, I have participated in all kinds of court sponsored mediation and settlement conference work, where I have been exposed to a wide range of complex family law issues, experienced attorneys, and have developed my own style in terms of mediation skills. My day to day experience working with clients on cases and appearing in court on their behalf is critical to becoming a better lawyer.
Why did you decide on your primary area of practice?
I feel that it chose me. In law school, perhaps because I was an older student -- a second career -- I had an aptitude for family law. I received the American Jurisprudence Award for my performance in Dean Areen's Family Law I course. So I thought, "This must be it."
What do you like best about your career?
The feeling that I have done something good for a client.
Tell us about your law firm:
I have a single assistant, a college student who is better with computers than I am. Luckily for me, she speaks Spanish, which is an important help to me.