AALM: What experiences led you to pursue a career in the law?
PPB: Since I was a child, I always knew I wanted to practice law. Growing up as the youngest of seven children, I learned how to navigate conflict, speak up for myself, and hold my own. This laid the foundation for my interest in a career confronting challenges and advocating for others.
AALM: How did you come to transition to family law mediation?
PPB: I transitioned to mediation when I had three children under the age of 5. I was seeking a way to remain professionally active while being fully present for my family. Mediation offered the flexibility I needed to align my work with my children’s schedules, without sacrificing the meaningful engagement I value in my career. I was incredibly fortunate to have the support of many colleagues in the local family law bar who were willing to entrust me with mediation work while I was starting out. Their confidence allowed me to maintain and gradually grow my own practice, which, over the years, has developed into what I consider a successful and fulfilling career.
AALM: Tell us about a case that has affected you professionally.
PPB: One of the cases that changed the way I practiced law was a dependency case early in my career. I represented a young mother whose children had been taken away from her and placed with the paternal grandparents who had significant financial resources. This young mother was at a financial disadvantage, and, after enduring years of pressure and legal challenges, had lost custody of her children. When I came into the case, I was up against an out-of-state attorney they hired, as well as their local counsel. After three days of trial, I was able to have the earlier orders overturned and this mother was given a path to reunification with her children.
It was then that I realized just how hard the legal system can be for the underprivileged to navigate and the importance of representing them. Practicing law is about using your gifts and skills for those who often go unheard and ensuring that justice is accessible to all.
AALM: Tell us about some of your legal mentors and the best lessons they shared with you.
PPB: One of the most influential legal mentors in my career has been Ned Price. He has deeply shaped the way I approach conflict resolution. When I first started mediating, Ned was generous with his time and really introduced me to the art of mediation. Through his mentorship, I learned the importance of maintaining compassion for both sides in a conflict. This allows the families you assist through mediation to leave with a sense of having worked together toward a resolution, rather than against each other. The goal is not only to reach an agreement, but to create a framework for communication and interaction in the new, post-divorce family unit. Ned emphasized the delicate balance required when navigating the interests and emotions of both attorneys and clients – ensuring all parties feel heard, respected, and understood.
My other mentors have come from my network of friends, including women who are deeply engaged in our community through many different professional fields. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to connect with many accomplished local women, and on a personal level we have supported one another through our own stories, advice and encouragement. With these women, there’s a natural exchange of support. I have received invaluable guidance on everything from professional growth and parenting to personal wellness and career transitions.
The lessons I have learned are that we all struggle to do it all, and that it is ok if we can’t. What matters most is to recognize our limits and what is most valuable to each of us. From there, we can prioritize happiness and self-care, so we are at our best to support and advocate for others.
AALM: What is next for your career?
PPB: I would like to continue expanding my family law and appellate mediation practices and take on more cases statewide. I have mediated cases involving guardianships, estates, and financial planning, and hope to continue to have opportunities to use my conflict resolution skills in other legal areas like these that involve family disputes.
AALM: Tell us about your involvement in the local community. Are there any organizations about which you’re particularly passionate?
PPB: Currently, I am the president of the Florida Family Law American Inn of Court. This professional organization of lawyers and judges holds monthly dinner programs designed to foster professionalism, civility and mentorship. I have been on the executive board for over 10 years and value the opportunity to collaborate with such a talented group of experienced attorneys. The monthly dinners are especially meaningful, giving us a chance to connect and enjoy each other’s company outside of the courtroom.
I am also a volunteer with Lasagna Love. My family cooks and delivers meals each month to local families, which I enjoy as a way to honor my Italian roots. I have also been on the boards of my children’s Pre-K and elementary schools, as well as a past president of the Jacksonville Women Lawyers Association. I have truly enjoyed the balance of being involved in both professional and family-focused boards and organizations.
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