My name is Kate Wilkinson and I am a lawyer, a mother, a big sister and an involved community volunteer in Eugene, Oregon.My family
My family includes my son, Benjamin, who is sixteen. Ben is a junior in high school, so he will be (hopefully) heading to college in two years. He enjoys playing lacrosse so I spent a lot of time in the spring watching games and helping raise money for his team.
I am the oldest of four and have three younger brothers. We have always been, and remain close. I have four nephews and one niece, and love being an Auntie! I am blessed to have many close friends here in Eugene.
My son and I after a lacrosse game
My work
I have been a lawyer for ten years. For the first two years, I worked as a law clerk at the Oregon Court of Appeals. That Court hears all appeals of trial court decisions here in Oregon.
A law clerk researches, helps to draft, and edits the Court's opinions.
For the last eight years, I have been a civil trial lawyer working in private law firms. I work on all types of civil cases -- contract disputes, employment issues, intellectual property matters, and fights over property rights. Most of my cases settle before a trial -- as do most civil cases in America. Litigation is often expensive and stressful, but sometimes the only way that people can resolve their disputes peacefully.
I also teach at the University of Oregon Law School. For the past several years, I have taught a course on "Interviewing & Counseling" which helps law students develop communication skills.
I am very active in my community. For the last two years, I have been a member of Eugene's first Civilian Review Board. Our Board review internal investigations into complaints about police misconduct. The process is part of a civilian oversight system for the police. Through my work on this Board, I have become very interested in issues of police oversight and reform.
Another area of interest is the role of women in the legal profession. In Oregon, we are lucky to have an active women's lawyer group, Oregon Women Lawyers (OWLS). I served on the Board of OWLS for several years and was elected the state-wide President.
Goals for the Rotary Exchange
First, I am so excited about our trip to India! I look forward to visiting this beautiful country, learning more about its history and culture and sampling the delicious spicy cuisine -- including Aavakaaya and biryani.
Professionally, I hope to learn more about the legal profession in India. Specifically, I hope to study and exchange information on the role of women in the legal profession, and how Indian lawyers balance the demands of the profession with family life.
