Mariela Anguiano

I became a certified massage therapist in 2007, shortly after graduating high school. I enrolled in junior college in 2008 but stopped attending classes because of familial responsibilities. I re-entered junior college in 2014 and was determined to transfer to a university to earn a 4-year degree. I received an A.S. in Administration of Justice from Sacramento City College in 2016 and a B.S. in Criminal Justice from CSU, Sacramento in 2018. Being a massage therapist was rewarding because of the positive impact on my clients' well-being, but I said goodbye to the profession after 10 years to focus on my legal education and career.

I started law school at Mcgeorge School of Law in 2018. Being a full-time law student while supporting a family and being housing insecure was extremely challenging, but giving up was not an option no matter how tempting it was on the most difficult days. I graduated during the pandemic in 2021 and felt uncertain about my future, so I took time to explore different careers. In early 2023 I knew being a lawyer was the correct path for me, so I sat for the bar exam July 2023 and was admitted to practice in November 2023.

My humble beginnings shaped my work ethic, passion for learning, and desire to advocate for others. As an associate at Brayton Purcell, I know we are making a positive impact on peoples' lives and I am happy to be part of the team.

What motivated/inspired you to become an attorney?

My desire to help improve the quality of life of as many people as possible.

What do you enjoy most about the work you do?

Being an advocate for marginalized people who were injured while trying to earn a living.

What are your hobbies and interests? What do you like to do when you're not working?

I enjoy going on road trips with my family, trying new restaurants, and exploring different beaches across California.