Denise Gabel sits down and answers questions about why she loves the work she’s doing, her food and entertainment recommendations, and gives us other fun facts about your favorite family law attorney.

What made you want to pursue a career in law?

It sounded like the best way to take the skills I have and use them to help people. I know it sounds simple, but that really was it for me.

What made you interested in family law in particular?

When I was with the Missouri Attorney General’s office and started working in child support, I found the work extremely rewarding because I was able to help real people with real, everyday problems. And in family law you get to help people when they’re going through what is often a tremendously traumatic time in their life. In a divorce or many other family law situations someone’s life and plans didn’t work out and were completely upended. When that happens, I have the opportunity to come in and help them rebuild their lives in a way that ultimately is in their best interest and more important, that of their children.

What is a hidden talent?

This may sound weird but I have a great ability to memorize songs very quickly.

What shows do you like watching?

TV isn’t like the ‘90s any more. I seem to find something I like then watch the entire series in a few weeks and then I’m onto something else. I’ve liked “Brooklyn 99” and “Better Call Saul” lately though. I watched “Breaking Bad” when it was airing originally.

What is one you’d recommend?

I’d have to say “Ted Lasso.” I love the positive approach to problem-solving.

If you weren’t a lawyer what would you be?

I’d probably be a high school history teacher!

If you could be a celebrity for one day, who would it be?

Dolly Parton. She’s had an incredible life filled with unique experiences. And who doesn’t like Dolly Parton?

What is your favorite thing about your coworkers?

I love how everyone at Marler works as a team. The culture is very supportive, very “all hands on deck”. I’d heard that before I came onboard here and it’s absolutely true.

If Marler Law were to compete in an Olympic Sport, what would it be, and why would you excel at that?

I’d have to say fencing. I love the quickness and the back and forth of it.

What is your ideal day off of work?

Going on various adventures with my husband and kids! Planning can be optional, but being flexible and open-minded is important.

What lawyer stereotypes to find to be true and untrue?

First, it’s pretty accurate that lawyers tend to think highly of themselves. Not all, but most. But the idea that all lawyers are self-centered, in it for the money and don’t care at all about their clients is way off in my experience.

Where is your favorite place to grab a bite or drink after work?

Well at this stage of my life I have young children so the drink after work isn’t much of an option and really, wherever they want to go for dinner usually works for me.

What else should folks know about Denise Gabel?

Just that I’m extremely excited to be here and to have the opportunity to help so many people. That’s what Marler is allabout and that truly is my focus. I’ve been fortunate to find the perfect fit for my values and interests.

Want to work with Denise Gabel or any of our other skilled attorneys? Give our office a call today!