Paula was born in San Francisco, California and raised in the Bay Area. A resident of San Diego since 1996, she has more than 20 years of experience in family law. She began as a legal secretary, and then became a paralegal. In 2000, Paula received her Juris Doctorate from Western Sierra School of Law. She was initially certified to practice in the Juvenile Dependency Court, which she did between 2004 and 2010. Then, in 2012, she also became certified by the California State Board of Legal Specialization as a Legal Specialist in the area of Family Law. She is also certified as a Mediation Specialist. Bringing a wealth of professional and personal experience to the table, Paula is adept at helping her clients navigate the complex and often emotional issues that they are confronted with in matters of family law. She is able to clearly explain the legal issues and procedural hurdles that they may face, so they are well equipped to understand and make decisions regarding their case. Her goal is to serve the best interest of her clients, and to settle cases as amicably as possible. If litigation is necessary, Paula can get the job done. Paula continues to educate herself regarding matters of family law and mediation.