What inspired you to become an attorney?
It may sound cheesy, but I really did (and still do!) want to be able to help people with their legal troubles.
That point aside, my decision was shaped by several formative experiences. While serving as an enlisted member in the Air Force, I witnessed—and personally experienced—instances of harassment where many young women felt pressured to remain silent rather than speak out. This motivated me to pursue a career where I could advocate for those who feel marginalized and help them find their voice.
Additionally, as an undergraduate, I interned for a state senator and later at her husband’s law firm. These internships showed me firsthand how attorneys can make a meaningful difference in supporting individuals and addressing injustices.
Together, these experiences inspired me to become an attorney dedicated to empowering others.
Can you describe your role at Indiana Legal Services (ILS) and what you enjoy most about your work there?
I began my legal career as a housing attorney with ILS in 2021 and was promoted to Directing Attorney of the Financial Stability Team (FST) in July 2025. In this role, I supervise a small but mighty team of amazing attorneys and support staff, specializing in areas of law such as bankruptcy, criminal expungement, consumer law, driver’s license reinstatement, and mortgage foreclosures. In addition, I maintain my own caseload of FST cases.
I very much enjoy collaborating with my team to staff intakes and provide assistance to low-income Indiana residents facing barriers to employment or housing.
Are there any memorable cases or moments from your time at ILS that have been especially impactful?
When I was a housing attorney, my client was awarded $6500 in damages against the landlord for habitability issues after several hearings and trial. My client, his wife, and their eight children were incredibly grateful.
Who have been some of your female mentors or inspirations throughout your legal career?
One of my most influential inspirational women has to be, and still is, Ruth Bader Ginsburg. During her career, her critical advocacy led to the most important decisions for gender equality, and her opinions and dissents as a Supreme Court Justice, shaped the law for the benefit of women for generations to come.
How has your experience serving in the U.S. Air Force (AF) shaped your approach to your legal career or influenced your perspective on work and life?
My service has definitely shaped who I am as a person, instilling and strengthening the AF core values of service, integrity, and excellence in all I do. These core values led me to have a strong sense of service to others. As an ILS attorney, serving our community as an advocate and a voice for those who are often silenced, fulfills me and provides me with purpose.
The AF, particularly the JAG (Judge Advocate General) Corps, excelled at ensuring family time was a priority and offered many benefits and support for families. As a single mom, I always felt the JAG Corps had my back, and thus I could focus on the mission, which is the purpose of serving our county. To this day, I ensure that I maintain the balance as an attorney and am there for my son.
How has your membership in IndyBar, especially the WLD, benefited you professionally or personally?
IndyBar, and especially the WLD, provide amazing opportunities to connect with other women attorneys, both socially and through their programming. I have enjoyed networking and connecting with other women through the WLD.
What has been your favorite WLD event that you have attended?
My favorite WLD event was a few years ago when the Hon. Judge Pryor presented on her career in public service. She was an inspiration and her discussion was very engaging.
What do you like to do outside of practicing law?
I like to spend time with my teen, when he allows me! 😊. I like to run, go to the gym, craft (when I have time!), and garden (occasionally!). Additionally, we have a retired greyhound and a maltese (aka the menace) that I enjoy hanging out and playing with them.
What is one thing you know now that you wish you had known when you were starting out as a lawyer?
I wish I had realized how important collaboration and synergy is to the practice of law. You are not alone. There are so many amazing attorneys and support staff that each have a wealth of knowledge that we can collaborate with and learn from. I am happy to note that ILS is exceptionally good at collaboration!
Thank you for the opportunity to provide my thoughts to the WLD!
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