For 15 years as a practicing attorney, I appeared in courts of appeals in Ohio and in criminal and civil matters in trial courts throughout Ohio, California, Missouri, Alabama, and Illinois. As a lawyer I handled commercial and real estate litigation. I also helped families in estate planning and probate law.
In each case, I guided clients through an often-confusing process. An important aspect of legal representation is being able to clearly and concisely communicate orally and in writing. I honed those skills as a practitioner, and my ability to write professional and complete motions, briefs and other documents has prepared me to do the same as a court of appeals judge.
My years of experience as a law enforcement officer led me to analyze and understand people. At the CIA in Langley, Virginia, I oversaw security operations, interviewed people and investigated potential threats to the CIA and the United States, receiving the Exceptional Performance Award in January 2000 for superio