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Under Oath

Valerie Garcia

Member Spotlight

December 2022

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Profile

Hometown: Fort Bragg, North Carolina
Law School: University of Denver
Live in: Centennial
Works at: Hall & Evans, LLC
Practice Areas(s): Civil Litigation
CBA Member Since: 1999

Valerie Garcia is an equity member at Hall & Evans, LLC. She focuses her practice on defending civil litigation.

Describe yourself in five words.

Loyal. Passionate. Resilient. Thoughtful. Introspective.

Why did you become a lawyer?

I never thought about going to law school until I worked as a secretary in the public defender’s office. Watching other lawyers, I realized this was something I could do. I had great mentors and role models who encouraged me along the way.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?

Appreciate challenges—they make you a better and stronger person. Appreciate losses—they make you wiser.

What’s your favorite memory from law school?

I worked full-time during the day and went to law school at night. I don’t remember much about law school.

What’s one of the most positive experiences you’ve had as a lawyer?

Several years ago, I took on a pro bono domestic relations case. I had no experience in this area, but the lawyers on the other side were very helpful on procedural issues. They appropriately and aggressively represented their client but were also professional and helpful to someone new to this area of law. It made a strong impression that even when on opposite sides of the case, it is important to be reasonable and fair.

What do you like best about your practice area?

I constantly learn new things and get to meet interesting people.

What technology has transformed your practice?

Searchable scanned documents.

What organizations are you involved in?

I’m active with the Claims and Litigation Management Alliance (CLM) and am currently serving as CLM National Chair for the West Region. In addition, I recently joined Colorado Lawyer’s Advisory Board and am a member of the Colorado Defense Lawyers Association, the Women’s Construction Litigation Alliance, and the International Association of Defense Counsel.

When you aren’t working, how do you like to spend your time?

Attending concerts, plays, and live performances, and spending time with my husband and family.

Favorite place you’ve traveled to:

Greece. It’s a beautiful country with amazing food and people.

What’s your favorite board game?

Clue.

What advice would you give a new lawyer?

Mentoring and networking will be vital to your career.

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