That doesn’t mean Ernston is all work and no play. Her office welcomes dogs more than it welcomes suits and ties.
How and when did you know you wanted to study law and pursue it as a career?
I was pre-med as an undergrad. I didn’t mind the blood-and-guts part, but I didn’t like the science part. I had some business background thanks to my family, so I took on the most typical of majors — poli sci. I’m not sure how that led me to law school, but it did.
What do you find the most rewarding or love best about working in the legal profession?
Being able to advise our clients — who are mostly contractors — in a way that doesn’t necessarily have to do with the legal issue. We have a toolbox, and the legal tool isn’t always the right one to use. That versatility lets us develop better relationships with them.
What inspires you and motivates you to achieve your goals?
The whole game of litigation — the process of moving toward a goal. Our firm has grown tremendously, and seeing that happen is very motivating.
What is something that most people don’t know about you?
I’m not a typical lawyer. I’m loud and outgoing, and I don’t fall into that stuffy, formal image of a lawyer.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
We recently ventured into the guinea pig world, thanks to our 3-year-old. Otherwise, hiking and being outside.
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