1. What do you like most about being an employment lawyer?

I chose to practice law representing employees because I feel that my work makes a tangible difference in the lives of my clients and their loved ones. When clients come to me, they are often in a situation they had never imaged they would face, with uncertain financial and professional futures as well as broken trust and respect. It gives me great fulfillment to lend a helping hand to those individuals and empower them to move on to the next stage of their working life with dignity and reassurance.

2. What is the most important issue to you of being an advocate?

The most significant aspect of advocating for my clients, to me, is listening. I was not present for the events that lead my client to seek me out, nor can I tell them exactly what would be the best outcome going forward for them, personally. For that reason, every aspect of representation for me begins with listening to my clients experiences, concerns, and goals so that I can make the best case for the outcome that would help them most.

3. What would you say to HR of a company about how to treat employees?

If I was speaking to an HR professional, I would tell them that the most important characteristic when working with employees is cooperation. If an employee can work in a stable and supportive working environment, not only will they be personally fulfilled, but will be better able to perform their work for the Company. Everyone wins!

4. What is your favorite food?

My favorite food is a Döner Kebab, which is similar to a Greek Gyro with a Turkish/German influence.

5. What’s the best part of living in (current city)?

The best part of living in Austin is the vibrant mix of people, cultures, and activities. Not only is it an urban city with live music and shows, but it is also a southern city with great bbq and line dancing, and easy access to hikes, swims and camping.

6. Why did you start practicing labor and employment law?

Having grown up going to school on a U.S. Air Force Base in Germany, I was lucky enough to exposed to a vasty different employment environment from that in the States. There, I often spoke with my neighbor, the equivalent of a union representative at the local Audi factor, about his representation of line-workers to Audi’s management. Over time, I gained a perspective which values cooperation, accountability and respect in the work place that not only encourages employees more sustainable work, but a more powerful workplace generally. Through my work on behalf of employees now, I hope to foster that attitude toward employers’ relationships with their workers in America as well.

7.     What do you do when you’re not practicing law?

When I’m not practicing law, I enjoy being outdoors! I spend a lot of time at dog parks and trails with my Pitbull-mix, Dewey. I also play on several recreational soccer teams and enjoy biking around Austin’s trails. When the weather is right, I also enjoy camping, hiking and swimming.

8.     What’s your favorite legal movie

A Few Good Men

9.     Who’s your favorite judge?

My favorite Judge is the one that reads all the briefs and keeps an open mind!