Cultural sensitivity is extremely important to me and I try to evaluate my actions with a Diversity, Equity and Inclusive (DEI) view. I have been fortunate to participate in numerous DEI trainings over the years and continually read books to enhance my knowledge and sensitivity.

I am Chair of The Florida Orchestra DEI Standing Committee. I am a member of the Hillsborough County Bar Association DEI Committee, and a member of the League of Women Voters DEI Committee.

My cases have reflected the diversity of the Tampa Bay community. I have represented African Americans, Latinos, Asian Americans, Middle Eastern Americans, and Native Americans. I have also handled many Muslim divorces.

For years, I have handled LGTBQ cases, which now are much simpler because of the recognition of same-sex marriage.

Although not a cultural or ethnic group, military members have been a constant among my clients. Family law military matters demand specialized knowledge of the stresses imposed by military service on the family and children. I was a volunteer lawyer for the American Bar Association (ABA) Family Law Section’s Military Committee during the first Gulf War. The committee partnered with Operation Standby and I regularly assisted military personnel in the United States and abroad.

I have volunteered through the League of Women Voters to represent “returning citizens” seeking to establish their right to vote under Amendment 4, Voting Restoration for Felons.

I am committed to responding to the Tampa Bay community’s needs and to abide by the oath I took in 1977 when I was sworn into the Florida Bar. This is an oath I repeat each year at the Hillsborough County Bar Association annual meeting:

“I will never reject, from any consideration personal to myself, the cause of the defenseless or oppressed, or delay anyone’s cause for lucre or malice. So help me God”.