Family: My pets allow me to live at their house.
Pets: Sadie the border collie; Charlie the Dalmatian; SugarBella the Chihuahua; and kitties Georgette and Precious. All are re-homed or rescues.
Education: B.S. business administration, Jacksonville University; Juris Doctor, Stetson College of Law.
Admitted to the Bar: 1997
Employed by: Vicki Joiner Bowers, PA.
Field of practice: I specialize in elder law but work with clients of all ages and life stages. I am board certified in elder law by The Florida Bar, certified by the National Elder Law Foundation, and a Veterans Administration accredited attorney. While "elder law" may sound like a narrow practice, in fact it includes many disciplines and requires a broad, holistic approach to fully assess a client's needs. Specifically, my practice includes estate planning, wills, revocable and irrevocable trusts, including special needs trusts, pet trusts, durable powers of attorney, advance directives, long-term care, Medicaid and veterans' benefits planning, probate and guardianship.
Professional organizations: The Florida Bar, Elder Law Section of The Florida Bar, National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, Academy of Florida Elder Law Attorneys, The Jacksonville Bar Association, co-chair of Solo and Small Practice Section of The Jacksonville Bar Association, Christian Legal Society and Women Business Owners of Northeast Florida
Community involvement: Our firm frequently volunteers and participates at seminars, health fairs, caregiver conferences, and other events in Duval and surrounding counties. We present at seminars, skilled, assisted living and other facilities, college classes, churches, CLEs, law firms, wherever we can educate about the importance of preparation and advance planning. We participate in the annual Walk to End Alzheimers. On a personal level, I play clarinet in my church orchestra and the Jacksonville Praise Orchestra.
How did you become involved?
I have always provided pro bono services individually, through Jacksonville Area Legal Aid, and via the Christian Legal Society for the City Rescue Mission and JALA.
How can someone else become involved?
There are numerous opportunities to reach out and help. Find an organization consistent with your passion, and simply let them know you are available and willing. Reach out and you will not be disappointed.
What have you learned/achieved through the experience?
Don't assume or take anything for granted. What may seem like a simple thing to one person can make a significant difference in someone else's life. So do what you can, when you can, no matter how little it may seem to you. We all have different talents and strengths. Everyone has the ability to make a difference.
What was the last book you read or are reading?
I usually choose an inspirational or short devotional reading.