Membership Perks, 0220 COBJ, Vol. 49, No. 2 Pg. 104
| Position | Vol. 49, 2 [Page 104] |
T. A. Taylor-Hunt
T. A. Taylor-Hunt is the Colorado Chair of the National Association of Consumer Advocates and serves on the Board of Directors for the Colorado Center on Law and Policy and the Colorado Lawyers Committee. She is actively involved in community activities focused on helping those in need and has been recognized for her pro bono achievements.
Why did you become a lawyer?
When I was very young and witnessed someone being mistreated, I spoke up. Often, to my surprise, the mistreatment stopped. I realized I could use my voice to advocate for those unable to express themselves. I've known since I was 12 years old I was going to be a lawyer.
What is one of the most positive experiences you've had as a lawyer?
My practice focuses on consumer protection and elder law. When I help someone push back against a predatory lender, unscrupulous landlord, or abusive debt collector and regain control of their financial circumstances, I'm overjoyed. My most positive experiences concern my consumer protection work on behalf of seniors. For years I've fought mortgage companies to obtain modifications of loan agreements. The first time I helped a senior obtain a modification enabling them to stay in their home after the loss of a spouse, I was so nervous as I opened the final letter from the lender. I had been fighting them for almost two years! When I read the new terms, I knew we'd achieved an amazing victory. I cried on my way to the client's home and again when I saw the relief on my client's face when I shared the news.
What is your advice for new lawyers?
Make time to consider what you want to do with your legal education and why. Consider what type of lawyer you want to be, especially in terms of values and character, before choosing a field of practice. Attend networking events to meet other lawyers and interact with a variety of people. Ask questions and find someone you feel comfortable talking with who is willing to help you along your journey.
If you weren't a lawyer, you'd be?
A radical advocate or teacher. As an activist most of my life, one of my favorite things to do is to carry a sign and march around the capital or elsewhere for a rally or...
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