Emerita Professor of Law
“Lawyers play an important societal role in preventing and resolving conflict. They are creative problem-solvers who are able to work effectively with clients and other professionals. Legal education involves more than acquiring a body of knowledge–it also involves developing sound judgment about when and how that knowledge should be used.”
Education
B.A., 1975, University of Minnesota
M.S.W., 1979, Washington University in St. Louis, George Warren Brown School of Social Work
J.D., 1979, Washington University School of Law, St. Louis
Experience
Mitchell Hamline School of Law: professor of law, 2015-.
William Mitchell College of Law: professor of law, 2007-2015; associate dean, 2008-2013; associate professor of law, 2002-2007; adjunct professor, 1998-2002.
Mediator, Erickson Mediation Institute, Minneapolis, 2000-2002.
Consultant, Northeast Metro Coalition for Affordable Housing, Minneapolis, 1995-1999.
Consultant in domestic violence counseling and litigation and law reform, 1989-1993.
Attorney, Legal Aid Society of Minneapolis, 1988.
Attorney, Land of Lincoln Legal Assistance Foundation, East St. Louis, Ill., 1981-1988.
Attorney, Legal Services of Eastern Missouri, St. Louis, 1979-1981.
Admitted: Minnesota.
Qualified Neutral under Rule 114 of the Minnesota General Rules of Practice (family and civil).
Emeritus Licensed Independent Social Worker, Minnesota Board of Social Work.
Professional Focus
My present work focuses on using research concerning the context and dynamics of intimate partner violence to re-examine current policy and practice, institute child custody-related court reform, and advance multidisciplinary cooperation.
Leadership and Service
President, Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, 2013-2014; member, Domestic Violence and Child Custody National Work Group, 2009-; member, Uniform Law Commission Joint Editorial Board, 2012-; member, Editorial Board of Family Court Review, 2003-; member, Family Law Quarterly Board of Editors, 2004-; commissioner, ABA Commission on Domestic and Sexual Violence, 2009-2012; member, Minnesota ADR Ethics Board, 2009-2012; Recipient of the Association of Family and Conciliation Court President’s Award, 2008.
