Who or what inspired you to become a lawyer?
Both my parents were attorneys and my dad was a justice on the Florida Supreme Court.
My mom became a partner at Carlton Fields when there were few women lawyers.
Who inspires you?
My brother and sister inspire me.
They are both dedicated to service in their careers helping others through medicine and disability rights.
They are kind, funny and intelligent. I hope to always follow in their footsteps.
How do you relate your undergraduate degree to your practice on the bench?
My undergraduate degree is in public policy studies.
I have always been interested in how our government can better serve the public.
Understanding the three branches of government, and the important and separate powers of each, is crucial to an effective democracy.
What community service have you pursued and why?
I have always been active in my children’s schools, serving as the chair of the school advisory council, the president of friends of their school and the chair of the parent council.
I was a volunteer Guardian ad Litem for 10 years and I volunteered once a week at an Emergency Assistance Ministry food pantry.
I want to do my part to help underserved members of our community and maybe bring some peace and comfort to those suffering.
What is your favorite book?
“Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens.
Do you have any special talents?
I used to think I was a good dancer until my teenagers set me straight.
If you weren’t a judge, what do you think you’d be?
A social worker or counselor.
Have you traveled anywhere exotic?
I traveled throughout Thailand while on spring break during law school and I went on a mission trip to Honduras during college.
If you could meet someone from history, who would it be and why?
Martin Luther King Jr. to learn more about the courage to stand up for what is right and the faith that makes that courage possible.
What’s your favorite food?
Pizza.
What’s your favorite holiday?
Thanksgiving.