Personal and Educational Experience

Through her family’s involvement in fostering and adopting from local county agencies, Marianne had an early exposure to the challenges faced by children from broken homes that profoundly shaped her understanding of child vulnerability. This formative experience fueled her commitment to advocating for children and piqued her interest in family law. This prompted her to pursue an education at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in law and policy, followed by a Juris Doctor degree with a concentration in family and juvenile law.

Empowering Youth Through Community Involvement

Marianne has a steadfast commitment to advancing child advocacy through community involvement. She played a crucial role in revitalizing the Liberty University Child Advocacy Society, enhancing its support for the National Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) and Freedom 4/24. CASA is vital in providing court-appointed volunteer advocacy for youth who have experienced abuse or neglect, while Freedom 4/24 works to combat sexual exploitation and trafficking on both local and global levels.

In addition to her advocacy work, Marianne actively contributed to her community through the Street Law program, where she engaged with children at a local group home and detention center in Lynchburg, VA. Her efforts included character building exercises with the children and developing mock negotiations and trials designed to improve middle and high school students’ understanding of legal principles and to encourage their active participation in the legal system.

Legal Experience

Marianne’s dedication to amplifying children’s voices and addressing their needs is reflected in her professional endeavors. While obtaining her law degree, Marianne gained legal experience through various internships and clerkships. Notably, her clerkship with the Cook County Public Guardian’s Office in Chicago, IL provided her with further insight into the necessity of creating a stable environment for children and the profound impact that compassionate advocacy can have when dealing with matters within the family dynamic.