Who inspired you to become a lawyer?
I was 6 years old when Sandra Day O’Connor became the first female U.S. Supreme Court justice. I thought that was amazing, even though at the time I didn’t quite understand what judges did.
That stayed with me and even though I had a career as a teacher, the desire to be a lawyer remained with me.
After teaching for 11 years, I decided to attend law school and was accepted at the University of Florida.
It was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, right up there with marrying my husband and adopting our children.I love learning and a good challenge.
The law provides both.
Who or what inspires you?
My sister, Dee Benton, inspires me.
She’s my best friend, a woman of strong faith, an instructional designer and a mom of three boys.
She inspires my faith and drive to keep moving forward.
How do you relate your undergraduate degree to your practice on the bench?
I obtained a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of North Florida. During my tenure on the county bench, I presided over juvenile delinquency cases.
My knowledge of child development and how the educational system works guided me in understanding and working with kids in this context.
I am sure my undergraduate degree will continue to be relevant in my new role as I assist families.
What community service have you pursued and why?
I am interested in helping children in the foster system and those who are fostering or have adopted children from the foster system.
My husband, Joe, and I formed our family through adoption and therefore have a unique understanding of the challenges and needs of children who have experienced childhood trauma and the patience and resilience of the families who love them.
What is your favorite book?
“The Count of Monte Cristo” by Alexandre Dumas is one of my favorite books.
I really enjoy reading and always have a book on hand.
Do you have any special talents?
Well, if I’m trying to be funny, I’d say I have a special talent for getting lost.
God blessed me with a lot of things, but not a sense of direction.
It’s the subject matter of some interesting stories.
Joking aside, my family thinks I’m a talented cook and baker.
If you weren’t a judge, what do you think you’d be?
Retired. I love serving as a judge and can’t think of anything else I’d rather be.
Have you traveled anywhere exotic?
Joe and I have traveled to Italy, Ireland and Hawaii. Now that our children are older, we hope to travel more.
If you could meet someone from history, who would it be and why?
I had a hard time choosing just one. I’d like to meet Jane Austen, Ella Fitzgerald and Amelia Earhart.
What’s your favorite food?
I don’t eat them often, but I love perfectly crisp, hot french fries.
What’s your favorite holiday?
My favorite holiday is Christmas. It brings hope
and peace.