Biography
Stephanie is a proud native Oregonian who grew up in the heart of the State, Portland. Her path to becoming an attorney is deeply rooted in her own life experiences and her naturally inquisitive nature, which led her to pursue a career that allows her to lead with compassion, creativity, and dedication to others.
Coming from an immigrant family, Stephanie was often the bridge between her parents and the complexity that came from managing a life in the United States. In a household where Spanish was the primary language, she frequently found herself translating not only words but also different kinds of systems, such as helping her parents navigate legal challenges at a young age. It was in these moments that she first stepped into an advocacy role.
This personal history is the foundation of Stephanie’s why. From a young age, she has been a translator, advocate, and guide for her family. She knows firsthand the difference it makes to have someone on your side and someone who not only understands your concerns but can clearly communicate them in legal spaces. Stephanie’s legal training includes a strong foundation in legal research, writing, and strong advocacy skills. Her strengths lie in her ability to communicate effectively, represent passionately, and build trusting relationships with her clients. She is committed to helping individuals bridge the gap between their goals and the legal system.
Outside of her legal work, Stephanie enjoys spending time with her family in Portland, spoiling her pet Yorkie, and traveling. She also loves exploring the vibrant Sunday markets in Seattle’s many neighborhoods.
Interesting Facts
Stephanie approaches each case with an individualized and tailored plan to meet the goals of her clients, as she understands that each case is unique. Stephanie understands that maneuvering family law matters can bring on more than just legal challenges, but also emotional challenges. That is why she handles all matters with unwavering compassion, empathy, and understanding.
With her client’s end goals in mind, Stephanie helps clients navigate complex family issues with vigorous advocacy at all stages of their case.
Stephanie earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Oregon, where she double majored in Spanish and International Studies with a minor in Legal Studies. Throughout her undergraduate years, Stephanie knew that she wanted to pursue a career in helping others. She actively sought out every opportunity to gain legal experience, such as legal internships, enrolling herself in any legal course she could sign herself up for, and attending open court hearings to deepen her understanding of the legal system.
Stephanie went on to receive her Juris Doctorate from Seattle University School of Law. During law school, Stephanie was elected as the Executive Vice President of the Dispute Resolution Board. During this role, Stephanie not only helped lead the Organization but also participated in Mediation, Negotiation, Client Counseling, and Arbitration competitions. She was also elected as the Communications Director of the Student Body Association and served on the Seattle Journal for Social Justice as both a Staff Editor and the Marketing, Business, & Events Editor.
Among her many roles in law school, Stephanie considers her experience as a Rule 9 intern at the Seattle University School of Law Immigration Justice Clinic to be the most impactful and valuable. There, she worked on pro bono immigration cases from initial client meeting through court representation.