I received my legal education from John F. Kennedy University, School of Law, in Walnut
Creek, California, graduating in 1978 with a Doctorate in Law. I sat for the California
State Bar and passed it the first time. While in law school I was honored to serve a
year's term as President of the JFKU Student Association.
Although I have practiced law from 1978 until the present, I made a decision in 1992 to
dedicate my practice to Driving Under the Influence. (D.U.I.) Defense. Since 1992 I have
successfully represented hundreds of clients charged with D.U.I. in both the criminal
courts and before the DMV. I've also represented people whose licenses were suspended or
revoked by the DMV for accumulating too many points, medical problems, or alleged lack of
skill. I have never lost a case defending a commercial driver categorized as a negligent
operator or a DMV medical case.
Each year I attend at least two DUI seminars to stay current on the new laws pertaining
to DUI prosecution and the latest techniques in defense. Many of these seminars feature
scientists discussing the effects of alcohol on the human body and studies specifically
related to DUI defense. I am a member of the California DUI Lawyers Association and achieved
Specialist Status with that organization in 1996.
I also belong to two e-mail groups composed of DUI attorneys from all over the country
and the world who share ideas, information and opinions. A third e-mail group is composed
of criminal defense attorneys. This communication comprises several hours a week but keeps
me up-to-date and in contact with others in my field.
I received my undergraduate degree from the State University of New York in Foreign
Languages and Education in 1967 and remained in Education from then until 1974, at which
time I enrolled in Law School, determined to pursue my childhood dream of becoming an
attorney. I believe that my years in education help me to better communicate with my
clients.
After practicing in Solano County and Santa Cruz County California for 2 years I
relocated to Bozeman, Montana and sat for the Montana Bar (and passed it the first time)
in 1980. I practiced there for 11 years primarily in family law with some DUI work. I
served as the President and Co-founder of the Montana Housing Coalition & as Secretary
of the Montana Women's Lobby. I was honored with the Montana Bar Pro Bono Service Award in
1989.
I live in a rural area outside of Willits with my family, friends and our pets.
I enjoy such pursuits as bird watching,
gardening, alternative energy, reading, and writing, in contrast to the high voltage
nature of my practice.
My education, legal experience, and life experiences give me the ability to
aggressively defend persons who have been charged with Driving Under the Influence of
alcohol or drugs.
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