Protecting Hopes, Dreams, and Family

“Why do I practice family law? Because it’s the only law that matters.”

When my parents divorced years ago, I recognized the value of solid advice in family law matters. I learned how family law issues extend far beyond financial obligations—they impact the hopes, dreams, and lifelong wellbeing of everyone involved.

In the years since, I have seen that when lawyers handle a divorce with expertise and dignity, the process doesn’t have to lead to the end of a family. The divorce can actually be the start of something better.  

For much of my legal career, I have focused on appellate law–managing appeals when a party believes the district court made a mistake that should be overturned. These cases are handled in a specialized manner. The parties cannot present new evidence and must depend entirely on arguments raised in the lower court. 

I work very closely with the attorneys at Batley Family Law who litigate cases in the district court. We strive to lay the groundwork so that we are prepared should the case move to the appellate level. If we need to challenge a ruling on appeal—or if the other side appeals a decision in our favor–I make sure that we have everything on record to get the best results for clients.

Many times, I counsel clients against appealing a decision because it is so difficult to get the court to overturn a lower court’s decision. Instead, we like to focus our efforts on making sure the District Court gets it right the first time.

My Bio

Before embarking on my legal career, I earned my Masters’ degree in Christian Theology and worked for years as a counselor helping families in crisis and transition. I turned to the law as a means to provide further help to families, especially those on the margins of society.

Prior to joining the practice at Batley Family Law, I covered a wide range of legal issues as an appellate attorney. Some of my experiences over the years include:

• Lead legislative analyst for the New Mexico House Judiciary Committee
• Lead legislative analyst for the New Mexico Senate Conservation Committee
• Instructor at the Divorce Options Workshop
• Program Director for the H.V. Payne American Inn of Court
• Pro Se Civil Rights Selection Committee for the U.S. District Court

I earned my B.A. from Westmont College in Santa Barbara, my M.A. from Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, and my J.D. from Northeastern University School of Law in Boston. I also hold C.F.R.E. certification from the University of Washington in Seattle and Certification in Mediation and Settlement Facilitation as well as Collaborative Law and Dispute Resolution.

I find great satisfaction in volunteering my time and energy to a variety of causes, including service through:

• The Board of Trustees for Junior State of America Foundation
• Peter Johnstone Family Law Settlement Program
• New Mexico Legal Aid and Family Legal Assistance Group
• Community Reconciliation at Dismas House
• Judge for University of New Mexico School of Law Moot Court

I also love to travel internationally. While I believe my travel experiences enhance my problem solving skills and deepen my sense of empathy, I have to admit my primary motivation is the sheer joy of experiencing new places and cultures.