Get to Know Anne:
What is your favorite part of working in a law firm?
Knowing that my knowledge, experience, and compassion is helping to make a positive difference in people’s lives through a very difficult, often extremely traumatic time, and that I am, hopefully, a small part in helping them realize that their family isn’t ending but transforming.
What part of the legal process are you most passionate about? Why?
Absolutely the children. They are helpless onlookers who have no choice but to go along with the ride. My parents went through a nasty divorce when I was in elementary school, and they never managed to let go of their bitterness towards each other, making constant verbal swipes at each other to me and using me as their therapist and sounding board. Children deserve unconditional love, support, and a healthy, loving relationship with both parents if those parents are stable, loving, and a reassuring presence in their lives, no matter their parents’ personal issues.
What drew you to the legal profession?
A job posting at Empire College in 1990 for a position at a family law office. I applied there, was hired, learned everything from the ground up, and discovered a real love for family law and all of its facets. I’ve always loved helping people, and this gave me a real direction on how to do that in a very concrete way. I have also been divorced myself, so I can absolutely empathize with what our clients are going through.
Is there a specific story, anecdote or person that influenced you to work in the legal profession?
My first job in the legal profession was for a mother/son team of attorneys. Witnessing their empathy, skill, and kindness in helping their clients transition into the next phase of their journey was, and continues to be, inspiring.
What aspects of your job do you most value?
Working with an amazing, supportive, collaborative team of people who lift each other up, encourage learning and growing, and who most importantly, are as passionate as I am about helping our clients.
Outside of the office, what are you passionate about/involved in? (ex. nonprofits, children’s programs, education, sporting leagues)
My family is my number one passion, hands down. I also love my two furry feline overlords, music, crafting (mainly hand sewing, beading, needlepoint, and cross-stitch), vacationing in tropical beach locations, and reading.
What are your favorite sports teams?
Giants and Niners! I always mourn the end of football season. Red and Gold ‘Til I’m dead and cold!
What are your favorite places to grab a meal in your community?
There are too many wonderful places to choose from around here! If I have to choose, I’d say Village Café for breakfast and Taqueria Molcajetes or Freaking Tacos all other times. I LOVE Mexican food!
Are you married? Do you have children? Grandchildren? If so, what are their ages?
I’ve been married to my wonderful husband since 2011, and we have a beautiful blended family of five adult children (I have the oldest and the youngest, and he has the three in the middle) who are all scattered to the four winds, but who all get along wonderfully. I have four amazing grandchildren, ranging in age from teen to just starting to walk.
What is your favorite book? TV show? Movie?
It depends on my mood, but I mainly enjoy reading science fiction and history. I enjoy watching ID Channel and HGTV, and medical or crime dramas. I’m not really much of a movie watcher, but Four Weddings and a Funeral is one of my all-time favorites.
