Interest in Law and Serving Community

I was born in Tacoma and raised in the Northwest. I’ve traveled around the US, including a three year stint in Los Angeles, and I’ve traveled abroad too: by taking advantage of study abroad programs I spent months in Europe and South America. But there’s no place quite like my home town, Tacoma. Small town feel with the perks of big city living; Tacoma really is, as singer-songwriter Neko Case said, “a dusty old jewel in South Puget Sound.”

My love for my community complements my interest in business. Businesses have a great opportunity in Tacoma— I want to help others realize that opportunity.

Of course, running a business is not without difficulty, risk, and conflict. My passion is counseling individuals and businesses in crisis, providing navigation from conflict to conflict resolution. My ultimate goal is to provide resolute and enthusiastic risk management, negotiation, or litigation of business disputes. After ten years working in the service industry, including three years as a manager, I have experienced the importance of maintaining a sense of urgency and grace under pressure. These skills are invaluable when responding to crisis.

Similarly, defending clients charged with crimes requires experience to responding to crisis. After representing hundreds of clients, I have experience using evidentiary/ factual and legal issues as tools for negotiatons, successful motions, and at trial. I dedicate a significant portion of my pracice to DUI/DWI defense.

My experience includes numerous court appearances on behalf of clients, negotiation of favorable settlements, discovery, and pre-trial motions. My professional work extends to a commitment to pro bono services. I volunteer twice a month in the settlement and litigation of eviction matters for low-income individuals and families in South King County.

Becoming a lawyer has empowered me to make a real difference in the lives of business people in the community that I love. I am thankful every day for this opportunity and challenge.

Primary Practice Areas

My primary practice areas are DUI/DWI, business dispute resolution, including litigation and litigation defense, criminal defense, commercial landlord/tenant, copyright law, trademark law and entertainment law.

I am licensed to practice law in Washington.

Interests and Hobbies

When I’m away from work, I enjoy reading, playing bass guitar, and staying active–enjoying the outdoors and exercising. I dream of one day building a sail boat by hand.