Jennifer Gjesvold, Esq.
I chose this career path because
I started riding horses when I was six years old and I planned for that to be my career. I did go to college but didn't plan on using my degree. After completing my education I continued riding and started a non-profit business for a year. After an injury that kept me from riding I decided to use my college degree to continue and become a lawyer. In 2011, after several years of litigation experience both at the Federal and State level, I founded my own firm in Texas.
I prepared for this career by
I prepared for my career by getting my BA in Psychology and Criminal Justice. I took the Bar exam in 2010 and passed.
The biggest challenge I've overcome
The biggest challenge I've overcome is finding the right direction as a woman practicing law in Texas. I found that being too masculine or feminine wasn't going to work. I stood my ground and practiced law correctly and found my place in the profession.
My greatest strength(s)
My greatest strength came from all my years of riding horses. I learned the skill of riding and how to be in command and learned to communicate in a very disciplined way. It gave me knowledge of who I am and what I stand for. I am ethical, forthright, competent and fair. There is an art to being a lawyer that goes beyond hard work and skill.
My greatest accomplishment to date
My greatest accomplishment to date is the influence my writing has had. I started writing academically at 21.
My personal/professional goals
My professional goal is to be a judge. I will also continue to write.
What/Who has inspired me the most
I became inspired through my injury and going through a divorce. I had a spiritual moment and realized that I had a higher purpose then riding. I was needed to become a great lawyer and get back to the high quality that lawyers should be.
I most want to be known/remembered for
I most want to be remembered for being a caring person who spent every waking minute serving others.
I participate in the following organizations/memberships
I participate in ABA, Federal Assoc. of the Five Circuit, Dallas Bar Assoc., Top Attorneys of North America, Lawyers of Distinction, Top Ten Female Lawyers In USA, American Institute of Family Attorneys, Top Attorneys for Thumbtack, and The ADDO Rated Ten.
I have received the following Honors/Awards/Scholarships
I received fourteen undergraduate scholarships, the Klush Tum Tum Award, the Children First of Oregon award, and was a member of the Honor Society.
I support the missions of these charities/volunteer my time
I run a non profit organization called Quantum Leap. It helps people who suffer from court induced PTSD. I also have a pro-bono practice, I donate time to the Dallas Bar Assoc., I sit on six committees and am the sum commitee chair for Equal Access to Justice.
I enjoy the following hobbies/interests
I basically work seven days a week but relax by watching TV, reading or walking.