From Politics to Law: Emily's Journey of Growth and Purpose
A Career Path Redirected
Emily Toland's career path wasn't straightforward. She started in politics, working in Madison, Wisconsin, for 15 years. But life has a way of redirecting us.
Turning Points
Two big events in her early 30s changed her course:
- A professional shift
- A personal loss—losing a close family member
This loss gave her a unique perspective on the legal world.
A New Passion
She saw firsthand how a good lawyer can help people navigate tough times. This experience convinced her to pursue law.
- 2016: Enrolled at Marquette Law School in Milwaukee
- Three-year program: Confirmed her passion for helping people through legal challenges
Practice Areas
- Real estate
- Family law
- Estate planning
Moving Forward
After graduating, she moved back to her home state:
- First to La Crosse
- Then to Austin, where she's been practicing law for three years
The Edge of Experience
She believes her life experiences before law school gave her an edge. Being older and more experienced helped her overcome the fear of failure.
The Work
- Estate planning: Wills, power of attorney, medical directions
- Community outreach
The work can be emotionally challenging, but she finds it rewarding.
The Personal Side of Law
Helping people through difficult moments is what drives her.
She emphasizes the importance of the personal side of law. It's not just about the legal details; it's also about understanding and guiding people through their emotions. This aspect of her job is just as crucial as the law itself.
Giving Back
Emily credits her mentors for showing her the importance of giving back. She's now a mentor herself, part of the Mower CEO Program, guiding young entrepreneurs.
She encourages them to explore law, stressing that it's never too late to pursue a fulfilling career.
A Decade of Impact
After a decade as an attorney, Emily is convinced she made the right choice. Her life experiences prepared her well for this path.
She's grateful for the opportunity to work in Austin, a community that has welcomed her warmly.
