Family Law/Domestic Relations
Published
Brooke Rosen
Johnson, Rosen & O’Keeffe LLC
Roanoke
Title: Partner
Birthplace: Pulaski
Education: Bachelor’s degree in economics, human and organizational development, Vanderbilt University; law degree, Columbus School of Law, Catholic University
Spouse: Court Rosen
Children: Oliver, 9, and Bruce, 5
Hobbies: Mountain biking, running, reading
First job as a lawyer: Gentry Locke Rakes & Moore LLP in Roanoke
Fan of: Spontaneous trips, summer days at the lake and family movie nights
Favorite vacation spot: Pawleys Island, S.C.
Recently read book: “Dopesick” by Beth Macy
Career mentor: Bill Gust and Bruce Stockburger at Gentry Locke
How do you help couples divide assets and liabilities in a divorce or separation?
First, I try to understand the immediate wants and desires of my client and how those compare to the other party. Then, I talk with my clients about practical concerns such as transfer limitations, tax liabilities and preservation of value over time. I tell almost every client that is having a hard time making a decision that we are not making decisions just for the here and now but for the person he/she will be five and 10 years from now.
You are chair of the board of directors of the YMCA of Virginia’s Blue Ridge. How does your family law background help you in leading that organization? Like any good lawyer serving on a nonprofit board, I offer the feedback on the organization’s legal questions. I am also a big advocate for the YMCA’s youth programs because of my work with families, especially as a Guardian ad Litem. But the benefits also flow the other way. I love being able to suggest the YMCA as a resource to any family experiencing a crisis, whether it be for childcare, physical wellness or for finding a welcoming community.
