Marianne Hong An Luu-Chen
Member Spotlight
January/February 2024
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Marianne Luu-Chen’s law practice focuses on estate planning, probate and trust administration, and tax planning for individuals and families.
Hometown: Carmel, Indiana
Law School: Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law
Lives in: Boulder
Works at: Hutchinson Black and Cook, LLC
Practice Area(s): Trusts and Estates
CBA Member Since: 2015
Pronouns: She/her/hers
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
You can be the sweetest peach, but not everyone likes peaches.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
Discourtesy—there’s no need for it.
Who is your favorite writer and why?
Jin Yong (aka Louis Cha). His Chinese wuxia (martial arts and chivalry) novels are so complex and intricate. He is a master storyteller.
Outside of the law, what are your hobbies?
Gymnastics, foreign languages, billiards, photography, and painting.
What organizations are you involved in?
I serve on multiple committees for the CBA Trust and Estate Section and on the Colorado Supreme Court Standing Committee on the Rules of Professional Conduct. I also serve on the Endowment Board of the Colorado Music Festival.
If you weren’t a lawyer, you’d be:
A law professor. I love to teach!
Favorite place you’ve traveled to:
I loved my visit to Viet Nam in 2016. Although I was born and raised in the United States, my first language was Vietnamese. I grew up eating Vietnamese food. I celebrated Vietnamese holidays with my family and friends. My first visit to Viet Nam felt like I was visiting a mythical place that I had heard so much about but never been. The experience was overwhelming. I learned so much about the country, its history, and the people. Also, Vietnamese food is incredible, and it was fascinating to try variations on old classics and contemporary Vietnamese food.
Favorite Denver restaurant:
My favorite restaurant—Farow—is in Niwot and worth the drive!
On your desk right now:
Japanese Origami by Mari Ono.
What is your favorite thing to cook?
Vietnamese beef noodle soup (phở)
What sport do you love to play or watch or both?
I go to adult gymnastics once a week and love watching gymnastics competitions. Gymnastics is a lot of trials, errors, and triumphs!
How has the CBA impacted your career?
The CBA has had a huge impact on my career. Through the Trust and Estate Section, I have connected with so many amazing people throughout Colorado. It is a privilege to be a part of the Colorado legal community. I learn so much at section meetings and try to contribute as much as I can!
What advice would you give a new lawyer?
Focus on making meaningful connections, stay organized, take good notes, pay it forward when you can, ask questions, and find work/life balance.
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