PERSONAL STATEMENT
I relocated to Nevada from Ohio in 1985 with determination and a belief in opportunity. As a single parent, I worked full-time in the hospitality industry while pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Balancing work, parenting, and school was not easy, but it shaped who I am. It strengthened my resilience and discipline and instilled in me a deep empathy for families navigating difficult circumstances.
After earning my degree, I experienced profound personal heartache, a season of life that tested my strength and deepened my understanding of loss, responsibility, and perseverance. Yet Nevada continued to provide opportunity and purpose. I went on to earn my Juris Doctorate from the William S. Boyd School of Law in 2003 and began what has now been more than twenty years of practicing law in Nevada courtrooms.
For more than two decades, I have represented families during some of the most emotional and life changing moments they will ever face. I understand that family court decisions impact children’s stability, parents’ rights, and the future of entire families. I know what it means when the outcome of a hearing determines where a child will sleep, how a family will move forward, or whether someone feels truly heard.
My background in psychology, combined with decades of litigation experience, has given me insight into the human dynamics behind the legal issues presented in family court. This work requires not only knowledge of the law, but patience, preparation, and the ability to listen carefully while applying the law consistently and without bias.
My career has been built on advocacy for voices that might otherwise go unheard, integrity, respect for the rule of law, and a deep passion for the work I do. I understand the profound responsibility that comes with making decisions that affect children and families.
If entrusted with the role of Family Court Judge, I will bring experience, independence, and an unwavering commitment to fairness and stability. Nevada is not just where I practice law, it is home. It would be an honor to serve Nevada families from the bench.
EXPERIENCE
With extensive trial experience and more than two decades of legal practice in Nevada, Patricia brings depth, breadth, and proven courtroom skill to the bench. She has dedicated nearly two decades to all aspects of family law, including divorce, child custody, juvenile proceedings, abuse and neglect, child support, guardianships, adoptions, name changes, TPO cases and the full range of matters regularly addressed in family court. This comprehensive experience gives her a deep understanding of the challenges families face and the legal processes that shape their lives.
Patricia has represented individuals in countless divorce trials and contested custody proceedings, handling complex factual and legal disputes that directly affect children and families. These matters require careful preparation, effective presentation of evidence, and steady courtroom management in emotionally charged environments. Her sustained focus on family law provides extensive hands-on experience across its many dimensions.
In addition to her family law work, Patricia has practiced criminal law, civil litigation, bankruptcy and a broad array of other legal matters. She has served as second chair in significant civil jury trials, contributing to strategy, witness preparation, evidentiary argument, and trial presentation. This diversity of experience strengthens her ability to evaluate cases thoroughly, apply the law consistently, and manage court proceedings efficiently.
Her practice spans trial and appellate courts, including appearances before the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, the United States District Court for the District of Nevada, and the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Nevada. She has also argued before the Nevada Supreme Court and the Nevada Court of Appeals, in addition to tribal and specialty courts.
Patricia’s appellate work includes published decisions such as Myers v. Haskins and Seput v. Lacayo, M.D., along with successful appeals and writ relief in both civil and family law matters.
This extensive trial and appellate experience equips Patricia to serve the bench with preparation, impartiality, and a thorough understanding of how decisions at every level affect families and the community. Her career reflects a long-standing commitment to fairness, consistency, and the rule of law.
ENDORSEMENTS
THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTERS
