Education
Law School: University of California, Hastings College of the Law
College: University of California, Berkeley
Major Cases
While I have participated in state and federal cases both large and small, most of my work as an attorney has been transactional. As part of my practice, I closed multimillion dollar deals and helped large companies protect their interests. Even so, I count among my major cases each of the many low-income clients who came to me for assistance with turning their creative pursuit into a living. In helping such people realize their dreams, we have together fostered economic growth and cultural awareness in our local communities, answering the very concerns that drew me to the law.
Professional Background
Before law school, I worked around the world as a performing artist. After law school, I represented artists, musicians, filmmakers, writers and other creative clientele throughout California. I also taught workshops, seminars, and courses in intellectual property and business law to artists and others. Today, I teach legal writing and research, art and cultural property law, and copyright law. In addition, I direct the art and entertainment law project and trademark law clinic, each a part of the Small Business Law Center at Thomas Jefferson School of Law. Through the Small Business Law Center, I supervise law students who provide pro-bono legal services to low-income artists and arts organizations throughout San Diego.
Professional Affiliations
I am a member of the San Diego County Bar Association, the California State Bar, the American Bar Association, the Society of American Law Teachers, and California Lawyers for the Arts.
Personal Background
A native San Diegan, my passion for the arts developed while attending the School of Creative and Performing Arts and San Diego Junior Theatre. Today, I continue to sing, dance, and play musical instruments, though entirely for fun. I also enjoy gardening, cooking, visiting street fairs and festivals, attending local art, theater and music events, and spending time on or in the water, whether sailing, surfing, or swimming.