November HOPE Heroes
Julie Ann & Natoria - HOPE Attorneys
Our HOPE Heroes for November are the hardworking Injunction for Protection (IFP) Project attorneys at HOPE. The IFP Project attorneys are Florida Bar-licensed, provide free legal representation and legal counsel to survivors in Injunction for Protection (restraining order) cases against their abuser.
About Julie Ann:
Julie Ann Embler moved to Florida from the suburbs of Philadelphia to attend the University of Central Florida. She went on to Stetson University College of Law where she graduated from the Honors Program, Cum Lade. Ms. Embler started her legal career with legal aid where she focused on family law and housing issues before starting at HOPE Family Services.
About Natoria:
Natoria D. Hubbard received her B.A. from the University of South Florida in 2006. Ms. Hubbard received her M.S. from Troy University in 2008 and her Juris Doctor degree (with honors) from Southern University Law Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana in 2012. Prior to attending law school, Natoria worked as a case manager for children and families involved in dependency court as a result of abuse and/or neglect. During her tenure as an Assistant State Attorney in Lee County, she managed a docket with over 400 cases and obtained jury trial experience. She concentrated her efforts in the Domestic Violence Unit and developed an affinity for helping victims and relied immensely on the efforts of victim advocates.
What have you learned while working at HOPE?
Julie Ann: I have learned that there is always something that you can do for someone, even if you can't do everything for everyone.
Natoria: I have learned that our work has a huge positive impact on the lives of the families we serve.
What motivates you to work with HOPE?
Julie Ann: I went to law school with one goal in mind - to find a career that allows me to help those in need on a full-time basis. HOPE allows me to do that while being surrounded by compassionate, skilled professionals at every level, which keeps me motivated to do this difficult work every day.
Natoria: I am motivated by being able to assist clients during difficult times and the ‘clients-first’ philosophy adhered to by the organization.
Natoria has been instrumental in starting the IFP Project at HOPE and has been here since the project’s inception.
Tell us about your most memorable accomplishment with HOPE.
Julie Ann: Every time we get a favorable outcome for a survivor is memorable.
Natoria: Overall, being able to assist survivors during critical times is the most rewarding aspect of the job for me.
Describe the most incredible view you’ve ever seen.
Julie Ann: The views from the chairlifts and gondolas in the Swiss Alps.
Natoria: The arch of Cabo San Lucas in Mexico.
What’s your pizza order?
Julie Ann: Meatballs & mushrooms!
Natoria: Pepperoni!
We truly appreciate all of your hard work and dedication to our mission!