Education: Juris Doctor with honors from Florida State College of Law; bachelor’s in accounting, magna cum laude, Jacksonville University.
Admitted to the Bar: April 25, 1989
Date sworn in to the bench: Took office Jan. 2, 2007.
Court: Circuit
Division: Family, FM-E
Why did you become a judge?
I felt honored to serve this community for 18 years at the State Attorney’s Office. When the Florida Legislature approved three new circuit judge seats, I believed I could better serve the community by seeking one of those positions.
What should every lawyer know about appearing in your court?
Be prepared and always, always be civil.
What do you know now that you didn’t when you were practicing before the bench?
Some days it is not as easy as it looks.
Community involvement?
For several years I have participated as a panelist on Straight Talk, presented by the Jacksonville Jaguars Foundation. The show promotes the prevention of teenage pregnancy and overall health and success for teens. More recently, I have participated in the Justice Teaching Program.
What are your interests outside of the courtroom?
Family, including watching my daughter cheer for FSU football and basketball, traveling, and exercising.
What was the last book you read or are reading?
“Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption,” by Laura Hillenbrand.