From Politics to Law: Emily's Journey of Growth and Purpose

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. Two big events in her early 30s changed her course. One was a professional shift, the other was personal—losing a close family member. This loss gave her a unique perspective on the legal world. She saw firsthand how a good lawyer can help people navigate tough times. This experience convinced her to pursue law. In 2016, she enrolled at Marquette Law School in Milwaukee. The three-year program confirmed her passion for helping people through legal challenges, from real estate to family law and estate planning. After graduating, she didn't stay in Wisconsin. She moved back to her home state, first to La Crosse, then to Austin, where she's been practicing law for three years. She believes her life experiences before law school gave her an edge. Being older and more experienced helped her overcome the fear of failure. Emily's work is mostly in estate planning—wills, power of attorney, and medical directions. She also does community outreach. The work can be emotionally challenging, but she finds it rewarding. 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. 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. 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.