New name, same firm - WardChisholm, LLP is now ChisholmOliver, LLP

Primarily worked in the Superior Court Probate Division. Served for 18 months in the Court of Appeals (2016-2017). Perform complex legal research and prepare memoranda making recommendations on the disposition of petitions and subsequent pleadings. Represent interests of the Office of the Register of Wills in court. Review complex testamentary and trust documents for conformity to the law and any potential legal issues; reviewed pleadings, including proposed orders and settlement agreements; and ensure compliance with procedural rules and statutory requirements. Manage the Probate Law Digest project as the primary manager in conjunction with the DC Bar, including directing and delegating tasks, and setting and meeting target deadlines to complete the project. Assist and manage special projects for the Register of Wills as assigned, including creating new forms and procedures and preparing brochures targeting varying audiences.

Advised nonprofits and small businesses on trademark concerns, including rights protection, registration, and negotiating on behalf of clients in intellectual property disputes. Represented parents and guardians in custody and child support disputes, which included counseling clients, negotiating and mediating visitation schedule disputes between parents. Drafted wills and other end-of-life planning documents, including tax and trust planning. Represented individuals in consumer bankruptcies, which included managing multiple deadlines, negotiating debts, and litigation.

Worked with Association and affiliates on trademark applications. Educated members about importance of trademark registration. Prepared and submitted trademark applications.

Researched, updated, organized and edited fellowship opportunity listings under a tight deadline for the PSLawNet database and The Comprehensive Fellowship Guide 2004-2005. Reformatted the Fellowship Guide and developed a system for updating large databases. Trained and managed interns for database updating project.