Meet Jennifer, Attorney for New Mexico.
What does your job entail?
I am one of two attorneys for New Mexico handling foreclosures, evictions, HOA foreclosures, money judgments, and collections. I also handle government conveyance and anything needed from cradle to grave for foreclosures. I also represent creditors in lender liability claims.
We are committed to Inclusion, Diversity, Equality and Access. Which aspect of our purpose do you most identify with?
I most identify with diversity. Diversity for our firm is described as “we seek out and encourage ideas, perspectives and points of view, and recognize that differences make the community and our firm stronger.”
I particularly identify with appreciation of other peoples’ perspectives. We as humans are stronger when we are open and appreciate other ideas and points of view. I like the focus as well on not just the firm, but on the community at large.
How would you describe your team?
My team is a loyal group of hardworking people that I have been so lucky to work with. I trust all of them to have input when brainstorming solutions. On top of that, they are all sharp-witted and funny, and I look forward to coming to work every day.
Who motivates you?
Both of my children. They are both so unique and strong in their own ways and, despite any hardships they encounter, they keep smiling. They are so full of love and support, and everyday they are my main motivation.
What’s the best advice you can give to someone who just started their career in this industry?
Be ready to sometimes be surprised. As much as you can try to plan for everything, something unexpected will always happen. Being flexible and open will make this career more rewarding and may take you places you never expected.
What is your favorite productivity hack?
I LOVE everything technology. Anything I can use and discover to make my job more efficient fascinates me. Also, doing the same type of task (such as reviewing the same pleading) consecutively is great for efficiency.
In terms of successes, which accomplishments are you most proud of?
I am proud of treating borrowers who are going through a hard time with compassion. We have a lot of matters in the foreclosure settlement program. Many people are in situations that they may never have been in in their lives. Treating them with dignity and respect and trying to reach a resolution for both parties not only makes me proud, I feel I am leaving a positive mark on the world.
What are the toughest challenges you’ve had at work?
Balancing high volume with litigation. It is the world of foreclosures. The pressure is exciting and as long as I keep my work-life balance, there is a great sense of accomplishment.
Who are some of your biggest inspirations within the company?
Caren Castle has been a great mentor, incredibly sharp with a great sense of wit. Nothing seems to phase or scare her and just knowing she is someone to turn to for advice at any time helps instill a little bit of her fearlessness into me.
Jen Rogers and Danette Baldacci starting this firm and making it about their ideals, inclusion, diversity, equality, and access, were the main reasons I joined IDEA.
How have you grown professionally while on our team?
This team has increased my confidence and reminded me how much this area of law can be enjoyable. Both the challenge of the work and the support from all the people I work with have been instrumental with this. It truly feels like we are one team and because of this, I know I can handle any work that comes my way.
What’s your secret talent no one knows about?
I can recite the alphabet backwards. Oh, and I am the queen of combining two idioms with similar meanings into a brand new idiom! Ex. – He’s at the end of his straw. It is not intentional and yet seems to happen quite often.
Tell me something about you that most people don’t know. A recent book you read, a favorite pastime, ideal vacation, favorite food or binge-worthy shows?
I am the person who is on the elliptical and cannot help but to have my upper half dancing to my music and lip-syncing to whatever I am listening. Music makes me happy and I cannot help but enjoy it fully. And rollerblading. I have rekindled that passion recently and seem to have spread the joy to my five-year-old. Life is too short not to do the things we love and to just be ourselves.
