Ashleah Howard's journey in the legal profession is driven by a deep-rooted belief in standing up for those who have been overlooked or discarded by society's systems and processes. Growing up in Austin, Texas, Ashleah witnessed firsthand the struggles faced by marginalized communities, instilling in her a sense of compassion and a desire to make a difference.
Raised by hardworking parents who navigated the challenges of the segregation era, Ashleah learned the value of caring for others from her mother, a psychiatric nurse. Accompanying her mother on home healthcare visits as a child, Ashleah experienced the importance of providing support to those in need.
During her undergraduate years at Texas State University, Ashleah volunteered as a Court Visitor, advocating for the physically and mentally disabled living in state-owned group homes. This experience left a lasting impression on her, shaping her commitment to fighting for the rights of the vulnerable.
After earning her law degree from UNT Dallas College of Law, Ashleah moved to Oregon to continue her community-focused work. Joining the Metropolitan Public Defender Community Law Division, she took on a variety of cases, representing individuals striving to rebuild their lives after encountering the criminal justice system.
In her legal practice, Ashleah approaches each client as a valued member of the team, prioritizing their needs above all else. She understands the challenges of navigating personal injury cases, and she works tirelessly to provide peace of mind to her clients, advocating zealously on their behalf and guiding them through every step of the process.
Outside of her legal work, Ashleah embraces the diverse offerings of Portland, from its vibrant culinary scene to its exhilarating winter sports opportunities. She has recently taken up snowboarding, adding to her passions for painting and cooking her favorite southern and Tex-Mex dishes.
For Ashleah Howard, the practice of law is not just a profession; it's a calling to make a positive impact in the lives of others, to stand alongside them in their struggles, and to help bring about meaningful resolutions that alleviate their suffering and restore their dignity.
