Welcome to our blog!

I felt that it was appropriate to focus this first post on why I decided to follow in Doug’s footsteps and what brought me to the profession of criminal defense lawyering!  Growing up, I watched my dad head off to work every day in a suit and tie, coffee mug and brief case in tow, fresh coat of cologne on his face.  He would take me with him to court on school holidays – we’d get donuts and I’d sit in the back of the courtroom with his friends, watching him speak to people in handcuffs, wearing different colored jump suits.  I loved the courtroom environment – particularly the formality and tradition of it all.  But, I never imagined myself growing up to be a lawyer, let alone a criminal defense lawyer!  After testing the waters of veterinary medicine and psychological sciences, I decided I wanted to save the environment.

Law school seemed like the natural next step.  I took an environmental law class in my first year of law school and was blown away at how much paperwork was involved, how politics play a MAJOR role, and how long it took to actually make a difference.  Those realizations really turned me away from the field – and made me realize that maybe I wanted to become a lawyer who helped people.

After my first job at the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office, a second at Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office, and a few major life events, I quickly realized that I was meant to defend people – not prosecute them.  I truly believe that people find their way to the criminal justice system as a result of some circumstance (substance abuse, mental health, financial reasons, family circumstances, etc.) and if I can help someone with those circumstances, I can make a difference.

I feel so lucky to be a criminal defense lawyer and also that I get to work with my dad every day.  I learn so much from him and his decades of experience.  So much has changed since I was that little girl in the back of the courtroom, and although I never imagined I’d be where I am today, I couldn’t have asked for a better job where I get to make a difference every single day.

I hope that with this blog I can educate and inform the community on processes, legal definitions, and misconceptions relating to criminal defense law.

If you have questions about a legal issue, reach out to Doug or me by calling (805) 966-4173. We take the time to get to know you so that we can best represent you and get you the best result possible!