Member Spotlight

Ellen Silvers

Where do you work?

Ellen Dee Silvers, Esq.

What type of legal work do you do? 

The majority of my practice is mediation.  I have been a Family law and Civil law mediator for more than 20 years.  Historically the depth of my law practice has historically been in Marital and Family Law.  I have worn hats as a practicing lawyer, guardian ad litem for minor children, and mediator.  I also practice Collaborative Law.

When and why did you join MDFAWL?

I joined MDFAWL approximately 12 years ago.  When I started practicing law, women lawyers were a small commodity in the courthouse and rarely had a seat at the table nor had the court’s ear.  However, because of organizations like FAWL, women are now taken more seriously and achieving more goals.   I want to continue to support women in all their goals and I believe MDFAWL is a tremendous organization in supporting women, demonstrating professionalism and mentorship, and giving to the community as a whole.

What was your most rewarding professional achievement? 

I pride myself as being honest, direct, and having good communication skills.  The most important professional impact, for me, is when, in my role as a guardian ad litem for a child, the child has eye contact with me and feels safe speaking with me.  Children are scared and confused when their parents are going through a divorce, and if I am involved professionally, then they are very aware of the acrimony.  The most rewarding professional achievement is helping the children through these difficult times and helping the court, the parents and most importantly the children, see a light at the end of the tunnel. 

What advice do you have for women in the legal profession?

Be kind to yourself.  Be ethical.  Being interested is as important if not more important than being interesting.  Say something kind everyday.  Be flexible.  Believe in your abilities.  Learn from your mistakes, they are not a failure they are a learning curve.  And most importantly there is no one exactly like you and that is your Super Power!