In law school, Cheryl knew she wanted to be an advocate for veterans and work as a defense attorney early on. From May 2011, after her first year of law school, Cheryl worked as a legal intern with Charlie Swift at Swift & McDonald, PS, a firm that focused on military law and family law for service members. As a legal intern, Cheryl handled Board of Corrections cases, court-martial cases, administrative separations, Appeals to nonjudicial punishments and Letters of Reprimand, as well as security clearances cases, and assisted with Family law Divorce and Child Custody Case for almost three years. Cheryl further expanded her knowledge by working with the Northwest Justice Project, Veterans Division, where she provided legal aid to homeless veterans and veterans on the verge of homelessness. Cheryl’s determination and strong work ethic allowed her to work at Swift & McDonald, PS and the Northwest Justice Project while attending school. After Cheryl’s externship with the Northwest Justice Project ended, she continued on solely as a legal intern at Swift & McDonald, PS, eventually becoming an associate after she graduated from Seattle University School of Law in May 2013.

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Cheryl’s passion for legal matters that affect service members and veterans is not her only passion. She is also has a labor of love about horse back riding, snowboarding, dancing, and spending time with her daughter and son. She is an avid camper, who loves a good hike through nature or a long road trip to new locations. Cheryl’s passion and sense of adventure serves her well both in and out of the office.