I was born and raised in the United States; however I traces my roots and cultural identity to Ecuador and Italy from where my family immigrated. A daughter of an immigrant mother, I was always intrigued with people from other countries and cultures. I have traveled extensively throughout Latin America and Europe having spent summers in Italy and Venezuela where I worked in the legal department of Petroleos de Venezuela (PDVSA).

As an attorney, I have always practiced exclusively in the area of U.S. Immigration and Nationality Law. I believe it is a privilege to help immigrants achieve their dreams and goals to the enrichment of this country. As a lawyer, I believe that while I may not litigate for damages or monetary gain, she accomplishes something far greater and richer – helping businesses thrive, individuals obtain freedom or contribute to the American dream and reuniting families. Nothing could be more priceless – or more American.

Early in my career, I served at Catholic Charities of Orange County as the Director of Legal Services and Advocacy, and later at the Public Law Center where I developed the legal immigration services program. I am most proud of the work I have done pro bono on behalf of the poorest and most vulnerable immigrants including asylum seekers, trafficking victims and battered women and children.

I was responsible for spearheading the Orange County Bar Association’s INFO presentation on immigration, am a Past President of the Hispanic Bar Association of Orange County and serve on the District Attorney’s Hispanic Advisory Commission.