My legal experience and skills, combined with my unique life experiences qualify me to be a District Court Judge in Weld County. I have worked and lived alongside people from all different cultures, backgrounds, and socio-economic status. I can connect with anyone.
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
Work History
Magistrate
19th Judicial District
01.2019 - Current
2019-2020 presided over a mixed docket of Dependency and Neglect cases and Domestic Relations Cases
2020-2023 presided over Domestic Relations Cases
2023 – present preside over DUI Court
2024 – Present preside over County Court Civil Docket
Maintained courtroom decorum by enforcing strict adherence to rules and procedures.
Supervised probationary sentences, monitoring compliance with conditions imposed by the court.
Collaborated with court staff, attorneys, and other stakeholders to improve overall court operations.
Presided over various types of cases, ensuring fair and impartial administration of justice.
Actively participated in continuing education programs to stay current with evolving laws and judicial precedents.
Facilitated timely resolutions by effectively managing high caseloads and prioritizing urgent matters.
Issued warrants for search, arrest, or detention based on probable cause findings.
Developed expertise in specialized areas of law such as family, criminal, civil litigation, or probate matters.
Applied legal knowledge to analyze complex issues, resulting in well-reasoned decisions and judgments.
Reviewed legal documents and memos to make determinations on pre-trial issues, motions, and final rulings.
Supervising Deputy State Public Defender
Office of the Colorado State Public Defender
01.2013 - 12.2018
Deputy State Public Defender, 2004 – 2009
Senior Deputy State Public Defender, 2009 – 2012
Supervising Deputy State Public Defender, 2013-2018
I tried more than 60 cases, ranging from misdemeanors to complex sex assaults and high-profile murder cases. I trained new young lawyers, and supervised many lawyers. In addition, I performed many administrative duties, like deciding ethical issues, and resolving complaints from clients. I conducted many trainings both in our local office, as well as for our state office.
Successfully defended clients by thoroughly researching case details and developing strong legal strategies.
Managed a high caseload effectively, prioritizing cases based on urgency and complexity.
Worked closely with investigators to uncover new evidence or witness testimony that supported client defense strategies.
Presented compelling arguments in court, persuading judges and juries to rule favorably on behalf of clients.
Mentored junior public defenders, providing guidance on best practices in case management and courtroom tactics.
Negotiated favorable plea deals for clients, reducing sentences and avoiding trial when possible.
Drafted persuasive legal briefs that effectively communicated key points of the argument to judges or opposing counsel.
Maintained confidentiality of sensitive client information at all times, adhering strictly to professional ethics guidelines.
Developed rapport with clients, fostering trust and open communication throughout the legal process.
Collaborated with fellow public defenders to share resources and expertise, enhancing overall effectiveness in representing clients.
Built relationships with prosecutors and other court personnel to facilitate efficient communication regarding case details or scheduling matters.
Attended continuing education seminars and workshops to stay current on developments in criminal defense law and practice.
Summer Legal Intern
Asylum Program of Southern Arizona
05.2003 - 08.2003
Helped to prepare asylum cases through researching law and writing briefs. Assisted in preparing seven different clients for asylum interviews and court hearings.
Contributed to successful case outcomes by conducting comprehensive legal research and analysis of relevant laws and regulations.
Enhanced team collaboration with regular communication and coordination among interns, paralegals, and attorneys.
Gained real-world experience with hands-on involvement in various stages of litigation from initial intake to final resolution.
Performed legal and general research, drafting memoranda, and correspondence.
Interviewed and communicated with clients via phone or email.
Attended depositions and court proceedings and prepared summaries on cases.
Interviewed clients to obtain information relevant to cases.
English Teacher
JET PROGRAM
08.1999 - 07.2001
Taught English in a Japanese High School. Created lesson plans, taught classes and participated special programs with students learning English. While there, I studied Japanese and learned enough to pass a level 4 proficiency exam, meaning I was able to read and write at a second-grade level.
Developed innovative lesson plans to engage students in English language learning.
Assessed student progress and provided feedback to improve performance and establish academic success.
Increased student motivation by providing timely feedback and recognizing individual achievements.
Designed and facilitated group projects to foster teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Collaborated with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary curriculum, resulting in enriched learning experiences for students.
Research Assistant
Oregon Social Learning Center
01.1994 - 08.1999
Worked on several different longitudinal research studies that began in the early 1980’s doing annual interviews and projects with subject families in their own homes all over the country. Maintained the databases with all participant information and scheduled the meetings. Collected and tracked school and court records for all participants from states all over the country.
Monitored project timelines, ensuring timely completion of tasks while maintaining high-quality output.
Managed research databases with utmost diligence, ensuring data integrity and security.
Improved data collection methods with introduction of innovative survey techniques.