Debra is committed to compassionate advocacy and understands that creating a new normal for a transitioning family is not a one-size-fits-all approach. She assists and strategizes with clients to develop creative and effective solutions to complex family matters, including dissolution proceedings, paternity, custody, parenting time, child support, spousal maintenance, orders for protection, distribution of marital assets and debts, and the many other issues today's families face.

Debra is a Qualified Neutral under Rule 114 of the Minnesota General Rules of Practice, available to offer families facilitative family law mediation virtually or remotely.

Debra clerked for the Honorable Mary Madden in the Fourth Judicial District, Hennepin County Family Court. Prior to joining Moss & Barnett, she served as the Legal Assistance for Victims Project Attorney at Standpoint, providing holistic legal services to survivors of domestic and sexual violence. During law school, Debra served as the Student Director of the Family and Immigrant Justice Clinic where she tried three domestic relations cases, including a complex third-party custody and divorce matter.

Credentials

Clerkships

  • Honorable Mary A. Madden, Hennepin County Family Court, Minnesota District Court, Fourth Judicial District
  • Chief Justice Kate M. Fox, Wyoming State Supreme Court (externship clerk)

Education

University of Wyoming College of Law, J.D.

Berea College, B.A., Spanish

Classes / Seminars Taught

  • "Domestic Violence in the Law," Adjunct Professor, University of St. Thomas School of Law (February 1, 2023-present) 

Certifications

  • Qualified Neutral under Rule 114 of the Minnesota Rules of Practice for Family Law Facilitative/Hybrid

Admissions

  • Minnesota

Honors & Recognitions

2024 Outstanding New Lawyer, Hennepin County Bar Association

2023 Violence Free Minnesota Alice O. Lynch Aspire Award

News & Insights

Speaking Engagements

Publications

Affiliations

Professional Associations

  • Minnesota State Bar Association – Family Law Section Council Member
  • Hennepin County Bar Association – Family Law Section
    Executive Committee Co-secretary (2018-2022)
  • Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC), Minnesota Chapter – Values Committee Co-chair
  • Minnesota Association of Black Lawyers (MABL)
  • Twin Cities Diversity in Practice Emerging Leaders Group (2024-present)
  • Douglas K. Amdahl Inn of Court

Community Involvement

  • Big Sister, Big Brothers Big Sisters Twin Cities
  • Nursery Volunteer, The Brook Community Church
  • Programs & Education Committee, The Cowles Center for Performing Arts
  • Advisory Board Member, Jagged Moves Dance Company
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