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Mara Veneman
Immigration Attorney at Muston & Jack, PC
Professional Background
Mara Veneman is a distinguished legal professional and community advocate specializing in social justice issues. With extensive experience in various roles in the legal field, including her current position as Managing Attorney at Muston & Jack, A Professional Corporation, Mara has dedicated her career to empowering communities and advocating for the rights of underserved populations. Her journey in law began after she earned her Juris Doctor degree with a concentration in Social Justice from the prestigious University of California, Hastings College of the Law. Mara's robust background in both private and public sectors of law equips her with a unique perspective on legal challenges and innovative solutions for her clients.
Prior to her current role, Mara served as the Executive Director of the Global Unity Project, where she fostered cross-cultural exchanges and aimed to promote global cooperation on social issues. Her experience also includes working as an Associate Attorney at Muston & Jack, where she honed her legal skills and built strong, lasting relationships with clients. With a commitment to social impact, she has held various positions, including Interim Executive Director at PaperSeed Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving education for youth in underserved communities.
In addition to these roles, Mara’s extensive experience with the Peace Corps as a Youth Development Facilitator reveals her passion for serving and uplift communities around the globe. Her diverse background is complemented by notable positions including attorney at MJ Law and contract work specializing in dependency and juvenile justice, demonstrating her versatility across different legal areas.
Education and Achievements
Mara’s educational journey showcases her dedication to the principles of justice and advocacy. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish and Human Development, with honors, from UC Davis. This strong foundation in human development paired with her language skills has greatly enhanced her ability to connect with clients from diverse backgrounds. Furthering her commitment to understanding cultural contexts, she completed a four-month language and culture program at the Universidad de Concepción, enriching her comprehension of bilingualism in legal practice.
Her academic prowess is complemented by her extensive commitment to hands-on experiences within the law community during and after her education. This includes invaluable clerkship opportunities at multiple organizations such as Legal Advocates for Children and Youth, where she worked directly on cases impacting young lives. She also interned at the Immigrant Legal Resource Center, where she contributed to efforts advocating for immigrant rights.
Beyond her academic credentials, Mara has received recognition for her exemplary service as a CAHSEE Tutor at the Alameda County Office of Education, where she worked to ensure that all children have the opportunity to succeed academically. Her early career experiences include serving as a Head Start Teacher at The Unity Council, where she implemented educational programs aimed at youth development.
Notable Achievements
Mara's career reflects her unwavering commitment to social justice, legal advocacy, and community engagement. Throughout her career, she has not only represented marginalized individuals in legal settings but also empowered the next generation through educational initiatives. As a Bridge Fellow at Bay Area Legal Aid, Mara contributed significantly to legal aid efforts for low-income families, thus showcasing the transformative impact of legal assistance in people's lives.
Her work with CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) in Alameda County further amplifies her dedication to child advocacy, ensuring that youths in the foster care system are heard and represented in court. Moreover, her experience as a Group Home Counselor at Woodland Youth Services illustrates her ability to make a direct impact on at-risk youth, offering guidance and support during critical developmental periods.
In addition to her extensive legal experience, Mara's work as a horseback riding instructor speaks to her diverse interests and her belief in the holistic development of young individuals. This unique combination of skills enhances her approach to community engagement, allowing her to connect with youths in various capacities.
Mara Veneman's journey through law, education, and community service reflects her commitment to fostering positive change and advocating for social justice. Her multifaceted experience and legal expertise make her a vital asset in any collaborative effort focused on improving the lives of individuals and communities. Whether working as a Managing Attorney, an advocate for youth, or a community educator, Mara continues to impact lives everyday through her dedicated service, compassionate approach, and steadfast commitment to justice.