Denise is a dedicated family law attorney with deep roots in San Antonio. She attended Incarnate Word High School before earning her undergraduate degree from St. Mary’s University in 1989. She continued her education at St. Mary’s University Law School, where she received her Doctorate in Jurisprudence in 1992 and was honored as a Council on Legal Education Opportunity Fellow.
Early in her career, Denise served as an AmeriCorps attorney with Texas Legal Services Corporation in Austin, where she assisted tenants across South Texas under the Federal Low Income Housing and Preservation Project. Her work involved empowering tenant groups to organize and purchase their housing complexes, making a lasting impact in the community.
Following her AmeriCorps service, Denise joined Lone Star Legal Aid in Belton, Texas, as a Staff Attorney. Within a year, she was promoted to Managing Attorney of the Family Protection Unit, where she gained comprehensive experience in family law. Denise focused on obtaining Protective Orders for victims of domestic violence across Bell, Coryell, and Lampasas Counties. She also trained law enforcement, domestic violence shelter staff, military personnel, and victims on Texas Civil Protective Orders and the complexities of domestic violence in divorce and custody cases. Additionally, Denise handled family-based immigration cases for victims of domestic violence, further showcasing her commitment to advocating for vulnerable populations.
In 2005, Denise returned to San Antonio and joined the San Antonio Community Law Center, where she continued her practice in family law. In 2010, she transitioned back to private practice, representing clients in all aspects of family law with compassion and expertise.
Outside of her professional life, Denise and her husband are proud dog parents to three chihuahuas. They love to spoil their furry companions and enjoy taking them on strolls to markets and fairs, making every outing a special family adventure.
