Why did you decide to become an attorney?
I became an attorney because I wanted to know, understand and protect my legal rights and those of my family and friends. As a young child I observed my mother struggle through the legal system and depend upon advice from individuals who did not always have her best interests at heart. I grew up during the civil rights era and I was greatly affected by the denial of basic legal rights guaranteed to citizens by our Constitution. I knew the law was the only way to guarantee the rights of those seeking equal access and justice in our society. I believed that as an attorney I could positively affect the lives of others, contribute to a better society and protect the rights of those individuals who were not able to protect or defend themselves.
What experiences (work and personal) help you to be a better attorney?
I believe my faith as a Christian helps me to be a better attorney. I believe to whom much is given, much is required. This includes a strong work ethic, integrity and humility in performing my work as an attorney. I have had many challenges in my life which have given me the wisdom to care about what happens in the lives of my clients. My work as an attorney is both legal and as a counselor at law to my clients. I believe I must commit to doing my best to represent my clients and to handle their affairs with the same passion I would have in handling my own personal affairs. I have over twenty-six years of experience practicing law, as well as lecturing and teaching other lawyers. My practice over the last twenty-six years in the areas of Tax, Bankruptcy and Business Law have provided me with the professional experience I need to be the best attorney I can be in serving my clients and my community.
What made you choose your primary area of law?
The honest answer is I really like code oriented legal work. I can remember financial matters very well; my clients will attest to that fact. I love Tax Law and I really enjoy Bankruptcy. I chose those primary areas because I am passionate about them. The work is stimulating and requires a great deal of focus. I believe that my work in these areas help my clients who are in need of financial and or debt relief. When I initially entered private practice nearly twenty years ago, there were not a lot of attorneys who focused their practices in these areas. I believe tax, bankruptcy and civil litigation have afforded me a good opportunity to work and make a living in the practice of law.
What makes your law firm unique?
We are a small boutique business law firm focusing our practice in the areas of Tax, Bankruptcy, General Business, Incorporations, Estate Planning, Real Estate, and Personal Injury matters. We work as general counsel to small businesses and we represent individuals in civil matters that range from bankruptcy, personal injury to probate and small trusts. Our firm is committed to diversity and inclusiveness and we have a team work environment. Each employee is an important part of our team. We value our clients and we are committed to the community that surrounds us. We are active in supporting a variety of charitable groups and we donate our time and money to community based organizations such as the Susan G. Koman Breast Cancer Walk, and the UNCF Walk to name two.
Describe your ideal client.
Our Ideal client is one who truly needs an attorney because they have a legitimate legal issue which is in one of our areas of concentration. Our Ideal client would be a referral from someone or an organization that knows of our solid and professional reputation. I would be less than honest not to mention, an ideal client is also one who is willing to pay reasonable attorney fees.
Describe your personal interests and hobbies.
With the loss of my Partner and Husband in 2008, my greatest joy is spending time with my two beautiful girls. I like reading non-fiction; I get a kick out of studying black holes in space (I’ll never understand it), taking long walks and I really enjoy traveling and spending time with family.
Describe your charitable activities.
I am one who believes that if you have to tell people all the good you have done, then what good have you done? I believe in being generous to those organizations and individuals who are committed to the charitable activities in which I believe and support. I am a strong supporter of my church, and various community and civic organizations. Through our law firm, we have supported many non -profit groups and organizations. We have sponsored students in school programs and with tuition payments. We have donated legal time and funding to several churches and been actively involved both financially and with our legal time in a local nonprofit mortgage foreclosure program which helped people keep their homes. After my husband passed away, I established the DOUGLAS J. HAYNES ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP FUND at his Alma Mata; Howard University. This scholarship is designed to help students who like Doug, came from limited means but have a strong work ethic and an intense desire to succeed in college. Additionally, I personally handle at least three cases a year pro bono and more if I am able. The list could go on, but to whom much is given, much is required. I am proud and thankful I am in position to give financially to others and to share my knowledge.
