Lawyer Profile
in life? Understanding that the opportunity to practice law (earn a law degree) is a gift and we have a duty to use that gift, not only to better ourselves, but to advance/ serve our community. What was your favorite subject in law school? You would think Real Estate, since that is my primary practice area, but Torts was my favorite. What are your thoughts about the bar exam? It is hard, but not scary, and hard work and preparation will yield good results. How did you feel the day you were officially sworn in as an “attorney at law”? Both times, the exact same - excited and thankful. What is most difficult about being a lawyer? Knowing that as lawyers we are the protectors and keepers of law and yet seeing too often that while we fight for equity in work for others, minorities (Blacks in particular) are still significantly underrepresented in the profession. What is your greatest success as a lawyer? Working to advance diversity and inclusion in the legal profession and seeing younger lawyers that I have supported/ mentored reach their goals. What do you feel is the biggest challenge facing Black law students and lawyers? I think there are several, however, the misperception that we have made greater advances/accomplishments than we actually have has, I think, created a certain amount of complacency.
70
BLACK
Do you feel Black lawyers have a special obligation to the Black community and other Black people interested in becoming lawyers? Yes, to the Black community and the profession as Black attorneys.
Annual 2013 Edition
What does being a lawyer mean to you? That although I work for someone else, my first obligation is to maintain the integrity of the profession as an individual. What do you feel is the best preparation for law school? I don’t think any particular major is better preparation than any other. I do think good organization, writing and communication skills are helpful. What is the one thing about law school and the practice of law that no one ever told you but you wish you had known? That because the product we produce is our knowledge and skill that while the work may change and producing it gets easier, the time commitment to the practice of law is constant. What other dreams and aspirations do you have - beyond the practice of law? I recently became a diversity facilitator for the Florida Bar and would like to explore how to expand my diversity efforts beyond the legal profession.
Favorite television show: Scandal, or just about anything on HGTV Favorite movie: It’s a Wonderful Life Favorite song: “Amazing Grace” and “My Soul Desire” Favorite type of music: Varied. Favorite musical artist: Patty LaBelle/Whitney Houston
Favorite musical group: Maze Favorite Bible scripture (or spiritual quote/teaching): “For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required.” – Luke 12:48 Favorite city: To visit - New York; To live - Greater Fort Lauderdale (Davie) Favorite vacation destination: Bermuda/Southern Italy
What would people be surprised to learn about you? I am an HGTV junkie. Who is your biggest supporter/ cheerleader? My husband, Richard and children.
Favorite historical figure: Jesus
Favorite legal show: Scandal.
Favorite legal case: Brown v. Board of Education
Favorite food: Just about any type of seafood. Favorite drink: Water and flavored mojitos Favorite dessert: Carrot or red velvet cake Favorite book: In the Spirit by Susan Taylor
Favorite hobby: Reading.
What adjectives best describe you? Integrity. What legacy do you hope to leave? My two children as Godcentered, loving and productive adults. What is the biggest piece of advice you would give to aspiring lawyers? Choose to become a lawyer because you desire to make a difference, not a dollar.