Bar Number: 53924
Growing up as a “language broker” for my non-English speaking parents naturally led me to law. Practicing in multiple jurisdictions, including in California starting in 2010, I settled in Washington in 2018, focusing on family law, guardianship, and estate planning.
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What is the most interesting case you have handled in your career so far and why?
The most interesting case I handled was one of my first minor guardianship cases under the new 2021 law. It was fascinating because I got to argue a novel statute with no case precedent in Washington. I drew on my experience as both a former parent’s defense attorney in CPS matters and a family law attorney to approach the case creatively. The challenge of navigating an emerging area of law, while advocating for the best interests of a child, allowed me to think critically and use my diverse background to craft a compelling argument. It was rewarding to be part of shaping the application of this new law and ensuring the child’s well-being was prioritized. I even wrote an article in the September 2023 Bar News on this topic, entitled “Issue Spotting: Perspectives on Washington’s Article 2 of the UGCOPAA.”
How is being a lawyer different from the way you thought it would be?
Growing up, I thought being a lawyer meant being an aggressive bulldog. In reality, it is about advocacy with compassion and strength. Court is a last resort—not out of fear, but because it is costly, stressful, and unpredictable. Legal fees reflect the time
and effort required to understand every aspect of a case and build the best strategy. Lawyers do not fight for the sake of fighting; we fight when we believe in our clients and their cause. My goal is always to find solutions that serve my clients’ best interests while minimizing unnecessary conflict.
At the end of your career, how would you like to be remembered professionally?
I want to be remembered as a lawyer who generously shared my time and gave back to the community. This means mentoring young attorneys, answering calls from peers, contributing to committees, and passing on the knowledge I’ve gained from great practitioners. It also means volunteering, doing pro bono work, and ensuring my services are accessible to those in need. I have volunteered at legal clinics since college, through law school, and throughout my more than 15 years of practice—it’s an essential part of who I am and the work
I do.
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LIGHTNING ROUND
If you had to give a 10-minute presentation on one topic other than the law, what would it be and why? Guide to fermenting (kombucha, ginger bug, vegetables, etc.).
If you could go back in time, where/when would you go? The 1920s because I imagine myself as a rebellious flapper girl.
What did you eat for breakfast this morning? Double shot of espresso (every morning).
What’s your favorite breakfast cereal that you’re slightly embarrassed to buy? Frosted Flakes.
What is one thing your colleagues may not know about you? I’m a crazy plant lady. I have plants in every room of my house.
What is your favorite smell? The smell you experience when walking by a bakery.
What is your favorite podcast? Modern Love.
What book have you read more than once? Nowadays, I focus on reading to my kids. We’ve read the book Wonder by R.J. Palacio many times.
What is the last thing you watched on television? A rerun of Gilmore Girls.
What is your best random fact that you would share with others at a party? My feet grew 1.5 shoe sizes in my late 30s.
What is the worst movie you’ve ever seen? The Human Centipede.
What did you think was cool when you were younger that makes you cringe to think about now? Super low-rise jeans in the 90s.