Finalist 1

What does be the change mean to you?

As I reflect on my experiences with the court system during times of distress following the divorce of my parents, I wish to “be the change” by transforming these personal challenges into a catalyst for positive impact within the legal field. This firsthand exposure of divorce proceedings drives my aspiration to pursue a career where I could influence the legal system to better serve those in similar situations by creating a more compassionate and equitable system, one that truly serves the needs of those it aims to protect. I hope to make this impact both as a lawyer representing clients in family matters and, ultimately as a judge, ensuring the best interests of children and families are always prioritized.

My personal journey has demonstrated the significance of empathy and understanding in the legal process. As a lawyer, I want to provide support to families that encompasses their legal needs and a recognition of the emotional and psychological toll of divorce. By actively listening to clients, understanding their fears and hopes, and providing reassurance during times of tension, I hope to build trust with my clients, ensuring they feel supported throughout the legal process. By doing so, I can better advocate for their interests and foster a collaborative atmosphere where all parties feel heard and respected.

It is crucial to consider the perspectives of every party involved, particularly the children, who are among the most vulnerable due to the long-lasting effects they may suffer from their parents’ separation. As a child of divorced parents, I understand the impact that emotions like confusion, sadness and anxiety can have on children amidst changes in their family dynamics. Unlike adults, children lack the resources to advocate for themselves, making it crucial for me to provide them with security and support in my representation. It further underscores the necessity of addressing these issues with sensitivity and care. Thus, I not only strive to contribute to a legal system that promotes the best interests of children as a lawyer but also recognize a child’s perspective as imperative to achieving positive outcomes for families during challenging times such as divorce.

A judge wields significant influence in shaping the outcomes of family disputes, and therefore, the decisions made can leave a lasting impact on the lives of the children involved. A judge has the responsibility of not only interpreting the law but also assessing the unique circumstances and dynamics of each family situation. Even amid complex family dynamics, a judge can ensure that their rulings promote the well-being and stability of children. They are tasked with safeguarding the rights of children to maintain meaningful relationships with both parents when in their best interests, while also protecting them from potential harm or instability. Especially considering the profound impact that these decisions can have on a child’s future, considering a child’s best interests when evaluating and further deciding a case is just the fair thing to do. Having played no role in the issues leading to such disputes, children are the innocent bystanders in family law conflicts. It is just to ensure their interests are safeguarded above those of the adults involved, who typically have more capacity to navigate the complexities of these situations. Unfortunately, this dual responsibility of appropriately balancing the interests of both the children and adults did not seem to be utilized in the decisions the judge made for my family, though. I feel that my experiences were overlooked, leading me to advocate for a decision-making approach that promotes a more thorough consideration of all aspects of a case, including the emotional, psychological, and developmental needs of children. In possessing significant influence in determining a family’s fate and a child’s future, I am drawn to upholding the responsibility of considering each family’s dynamics and ensuring decisions particularly prioritize a child’s well-being and long-term stability, a duty I advocate for based on my personal experiences.

I am committed to “be the change” as a lawyer and a judge by advocating for a legal system that prioritizes compassion and equity. I desire to transform my experiences into positive impacts, ensuring that every decision comprehensively considers the needs of those involved. Through this dedication, I hope to make a difference in the court system and inspire a shift towards more child-centered legal practices and fostering a judicial environment where the well-being of children is preeminent, promoting stability for families navigating difficult transitions.