
I am incredibly excited to join Schromen Law, LLC. Rachel and I first met while I was attending law school. Her compassion impressed me then, and when I recently attended a presentation Rachel gave on her approach to the very important work of assisting families with end-of-life planning, our worlds aligned. I quickly realized we share common values for serving clients by caring for the whole person and family with authenticity, respect, and dignity. Importantly, we agree that one of the best and most important gifts you can give your family and yourself for peace of mind is a plan for when you are unable to care for the people you love.
In today’s contentious world, we need attorneys that actively listen, provide sound advice, and work collaboratively toward resolution while advocating for our clients. I have honed these skills throughout my career.
Prior to attending law school, I owned a successful boutique photography studio located in St. Paul and Woodbury for many years. I also completed a master’s in photography. I was named Twin Cities portrait photographer of the year, won many international awards for my photographs, and was selected for Crave: Urban Girls Manifesto, naming the Best Women Owned Businesses and Entrepreneurs in Minneapolis two years in a row.
My background likely begs the question: how does one go from a creative business owner to the law? I can attest the transition was big!
As an attorney and mediator, I continue to serve families and help make an impact on lives in meaningful ways. I graduated from Mitchell Hamline School of Law, magna cum laude, receiving a Certification in Conflict Resolution Theory and Practice. While in law school, I actively participated in Mitchell Hamline’s alternative dispute resolution program, including the Willem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot competition in Vienna and as a member ABA Representation Mediation Competition team, placing as a regional finalist. I studied abroad, earning a certificate in Global Arbitration Law and Practice through the Dispute Resolution Institute in cooperation with Queen Mary University of London. During law school, I completed a law clerk externship with the Honorable Juanita Freeman in Washington County and worked as a certified student attorney in the Dakota County Prosecutors office. Upon graduating from Mitchell Hamline School of Law, I became a Judicial Staff Attorney to the Honorable Vicki Vial Taylor. Cumulatively, these experiences provide a unique insight into the Court’s decision-making process, as well as the out-of-court processes available to clients. I began my legal career focused on families, including family law, mediation, and estate planning. I am thrilled to now make my way back to St. Paul.
As a business owner, I understand the importance of client service and strong communication skills. I have a passion for working with families and pet owners, having collaborated with families by capturing their stories in photographs for nearly two decades. Today I utilize my extensive business experience, emotional intelligence, and versatile skills to take a genuine interest in families and understand their story, help change the story going forward, and, hopefully, create a better story for those involved. To that end, I am on the Board of the Collaborative Law Institute, an organization working to provide families with out-of-court alternatives for resolving disputes.
Beyond my career, I am an avid reader (of fiction, romantic comedy, dystopian novels, or anything else that catches my eye in the moment). I love to travel and have two continents to go in my globe-trotting endeavors, and I thrive on variety and trying new things, including learning to ballroom dance. Most important to me is my family. My husband, kids, and dogs definitely keep me on my toes.
As I settle in at Schromen Law, I am excited to join Jenna in her search for the perfect London Fog (please add a shot of lavender to mine). And I look forward to continuing to help families give the gift of a plan that is complete with goal setting through understanding and compassion for each family’s specific circumstances. Please don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule a consultation so we can work together to plan for your future. I am looking forward to meeting you.
Questions?