For February, ANDVSA is honored to recognize Jenny Warnick as our Volunteer Attorney of the Month.
Based in Portland, Oregon and licensed in Alaska, Jenny connected with ANDVSA after attending a CLE focused on pro bono opportunities for out-of-state attorneys. Though she had no prior experience in family law or litigation, Jenny stepped forward to take on a complex custody case and approached it with humility, determination, and a willingness to learn.
Jenny dedicated substantial time to supporting the survivor she represented. With ongoing technical assistance and guidance from ANDVSA’s legal team, she navigated an entirely new area of practice and even traveled to Anchorage to attend a critical hearing in August. The case recently settled, marking the end of an intensive and deeply meaningful journey.
When asked about her experience, Jenny described it as “one of the best experiences of my life.”
“I don’t have words to fully describe how rewarding, challenging, and enriching it was,” she shared. “Coming from a professional background where I had practiced law for over 20 years but had never been a litigator was a real stretch. What made it possible was the support I received every step of the way.”
While Jenny had previously done pro bono work with Alaska Legal Services Corporation, this experience pushed her into unfamiliar territory and ultimately reaffirmed her commitment to advocacy.
Jenny earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan and graduated from law school in 2000. She began her career practicing law on the west coast and has spent much of her professional life working in regulated industry spaces. Through years of representing clients in Southeast Alaska, she developed a deep connection to the state.
“I felt very much a part of Alaska,” Jenny shared. “I’ve found Alaskans to be authentic and welcoming, and I’ve always felt attached to the community, culture, and place.”
Outside of work, Jenny describes herself as a typical Pacific Northwesterner who enjoys being outdoors, running, walking, hiking, watching movies, and spending time with family and friends. She values saying yes to opportunities and believes that being together matters more than what you’re doing.
“If you can say yes, that’s already a lucky thing.”
Jenny spoke highly of ANDVSA’s legal team and the quality of work happening within the Anchorage office.
“The excellence and quality of lawyering in this small office is impressive,” she said.
She is especially eager to encourage attorneys who may not come from a litigation background.
“I had a lot of reasons not to pursue something like this,” Jenny shared. “I want people to know that ANDVSA will support you every step of the way. I’m happy to talk with anyone who’s considering it.”
We are deeply grateful for Jenny Warnick’s dedication, courage, and commitment to survivors. Her willingness to step into the unknown made a lasting impact and exemplifies the power of pro bono advocacy.