Where I'm From
I was born on March 18, 1964 in Los Angeles, California and have one sister.  I lived in the San Fernando Valley until 7^th grade, but then we relocated to Diamond Bar, California where I obtained my high school diploma in 1982 at Walnut High School.  I was a part of the year book staff and graduated with honors. 

Education
I attended California State University Fullerton, and was considering a career in law enforcement.  Therefore I majored and obtained a degree in criminal justice in 1987.  On reflection during my senior year, I decided to go to law school to help people get out of trouble, rather than arrest them for getting into trouble. 

I immediately enrolled in the University of Bridgeport School of Law and obtained my JD degree in 1990.  While a law student, I worked in the City Attorney's office in New Haven as a research clerk.

Professional Life
I returned to California after graduation from law school, studied for the California State Bar and was admitted to practice in California in 1991.  I joined a litigation firm in Orange County that provided a defense, paid by insurance, to individuals that were sued for causing injury or damages to another.  My role included defending against false and improper claims and also ensuring that claims for damages were reasonably resolved.  I tried to verdict many cases arising from personal and commercial insurance policies, including auto, construction defect, premises liability, and products liability. 

In 2006 I elected to change my professional focus.  I had for many years represented defendants.  I wanted to use my experience to promote and obtain successful resolution of claims for injured persons.  Therefore I sought out and joined a well known and successful firm handling plaintiff's claims, Allen, Flatt, Ballidis & Leslie, where I have had the grateful and rewarding experience of serving those who are injured due to the negligence of others.  Because of my background, I believe I have the respect of the defense attorneys, and I also have a keen understanding of what they look for when evaluating and settling injury cases, which helps me to get the best possible result for our clients.

Personal Life
I have a passion for greyhound dogs and have saved two through Greyhound Rescue.  I love to snow ski, bicycle, run and travel.