My path to the legal profession was not a direct one. A true passion for helping others led me to Michigan State University where I earned my B.A. in Social Work. My senior year, I had the opportunity to complete an internship in a legal advocacy program with LACASA, serving survivors of domestic violence. There, I witnessed firsthand the critical role that attorneys play in advancing and protecting individuals’ rights in and out of the courtroom. I pivoted and continued my education at MSU’s College of Law. Prior to joining Cooper and Riesterer, I practiced for several years in public sector employee-side labor law, serving teachers, nurses, and law enforcement officers. I represented public employees throughout the state in court, at arbitrations, and before agencies such as the Michigan Employment Relations Commission.

Before entering the actual practice of law, I had a notion that certain areas of practice provided a larger public benefit than others. After practicing for several years, I have realized that what truly advances the public interest is being a good and conscientious lawyer. Honest and hardworking people encounter problems in all areas of the law, and they deserve a lawyer that will help them navigate cost effective solutions with creativity and passion. My social work foundation prepared me well to serve as both counselor and advocate for my clients. As a Livingston County native, I am thrilled to work in and serve the people of this community. I am well versed in litigation and contracts and eagerly learning all of the nuanced areas of the law that Cooper & Riesterer offers to its clients.

My heart for serving others has always extended beyond work and school. During undergrad, I served as a children’s literacy tutor and spent my breaks volunteering through MSU’s alternative break program. In law school, I clerked for the Michigan Legal Help Program and for Legal Services of South Central Michigan, where I helped secure services for older adults and members of vulnerable populations. I also served as a student clinician with the Chance at Childhood legal clinic, assisting clients with guardianships, adoptions, and child custody issues. When I need time to unwind, I like to be outdoors gardening or hanging out with my family, which includes my cats, Gus, Max, Nelson and Boo. I have also decided to try both knitting and crocheting. If you see me in a lopsided sweater, remember, I am learning and I also have four yarn loving cats.