BLOOD LAW - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Associate
- Attorney
- Member of the Legal Team
Allison's passion for Family Law was sparked after she took a family law course in law school. She knew she wanted to find a way to help clients and problem solve, and Family Law was a way she could do both. After graduating from Campbell Law and passing the bar, Allison and her husband moved back to the Charlotte area to be close to family.
When she's not at the office, Allison loves to spend time with her two Australian shepherds, Cookie and Mojo. She also loves to draw, paint, and visit museums whenever she is able to.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Legal Team
- Senior Attorney
Allison Thomas is a recent graduate from Elon University's School of Law. She is beyond thrilled to support families in North Carolina and is devoted to being an outspoken voice and incredible supporter for every client that walks into Blood Law.
Originally from The Sunshine State, she received a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from the University of North Florida before moving to North Carolina in 2019. Allison has been working in the legal field since 2017. Her roles have evolved from volunteer work to legal aid to interning with the North Carolina Court of Appeals.
During her time at the university, Allison dedicated herself to becoming a zealous advocate for families in need. She was a member of Elon's Family Law Society and president of the Public Interest Law Society-but this wasn't enough for her, as she also completed a Residency-in-Practice in family law during her second year.
She was awarded the North Carolina Chapter of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers award during graduation, congratulating her for her exceptional commitment to family law. She also received the North Carolina State Bar Student Pro Bono Award, and the Michael L. Rich Memorial Award for Excellence in Criminal Law Studies.
Allison's experience enables her to understand the unique stress of the family law process. When she listens to each client's needs, she is dedicated to tailoring her work to suit the needs of each individual and their case.
During her free time, Allison enjoys spending time with her dogs, annoying her cat, and has just recently taken up the refreshing hobby of refinishing furniture.
Job Titles:
- Founder
- Managing Attorney
- Member of the Legal Team
Anna N. Blood is the founding and managing attorney at Blood Law. She has been in the legal profession for more than a decade and prides herself on fierce advocacy and compassion for her clients. Anna understands the importance of family in and outside of the courtroom. As a mother of four, she truly understands the trial and tribulations her clients endure, and fights to protect their rights.
Since graduating from law school Anna's main practice area has been family law, and she is truly passionate about what she does. As a child of divorce, she truly understands the painful process that her clients experience. Anna founded Blood Law with the vision of creating a different kind of experience and approach to family law. One that is tailored to the clients' needs, provides concierge-level service, and is centered around fierce advocacy.
When Anna is not in the courtroom, you will find her spending time with her family, and her husband who is the son of WWE hall of fame wrestler Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat. Anna has built a team at Blood Law that takes a wholehearted approach to the law and provides a different kind of experience for all her clients.
Education
Charlotte School of Law: Juris Doctor
Saint Leo University: Bachelor in International Studies
Job Titles:
- Member of the Legal Team
- Paralegal
Debra McDuffie grew up in Charlotte, North Carolina. She attended King's College where she majored in Paralegal Studies and earned her Specialization Certificate. Debra has over 25 years of legal experience in family law, estate planning/administration, litigation, and business law and her ultimate goal is to return to school and pursue her Paralegal Certification.
Debra lives with her two children, Serina and Josiah. Debra also is her father's caregiver. In her spare time, Debra enjoys music, cooking/catering, spending time with her friends and family. Debra has volunteered as Head Cheerleader Coach for Mecklenburg County Parks & Recreation for over 13 years for girls ages 4 to 12 years old.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Legal Team
- Firm Manager
Born and raised in Florence SC. I graduated from West Florence High School. I Attended Saint Augustine's College, in Raleigh NC, where I obtained a bachelor's in health science. I went on to start a Career in healthcare as a Certified Medical Biller and Coder- RCM Manager for a little over 21 years. Later I attended the University of Phoenix and graduated with an MBA. I love working with people.
I am mother of a 20-year-old that is in his Junior year at USC-Columbia and a 16-year-old who is in her junior year in high school. I also have 2 bonus kids that are 25, and 33. Married for 4 years to my wonderful husband.
In my spare time I love to travel, sing karaoke and event planning!
Job Titles:
- Associate
- Attorney
- Clerk
- Member of the Legal Team
- Lauren Andrews Associate Attorney
Lauren Andrews is a recent graduate of Elon University School of Law. Lauren is passionate about serving clients with zealous advocacy and compassionate care.
Lauren is an alumna of the University of Kentucky where she studied political science and history. As a member of the University of Kentucky Women's Choir, she participated in service projects in the community and sang in performances in southern Kentucky, Michigan, and Central Europe.
At Elon Law, Lauren served on the executive board of the Women's Law Association, worked as a student attorney in the Humanitarian Immigration Clinic, and participated in the Innocence Project. During her time in law school, Lauren completed family law internships in her hometown, Cincinnati, Ohio. She also completed a residency-in-practice at the Guilford County District Attorney's Office in Greensboro, North Carolina.
Lauren is ready to guide you through your family law matters with compassion and understanding.
In her free time, Lauren loves trying out new recipes, yoga, exploring the neighborhood with her dog, and listening to music.
Job Titles:
- Director of Operations
- Member of the Legal Team
Leigh Ann is a Union County native. She has lived in the Wesley Chapel/Waxhaw area her entire life. After graduation from Sun Valley High School, she attended CPCC and graduated as a Certified Medical Assistant/Medical Administrator. Leigh Ann worked in the medical field for 22 years before joining Blood Law.
Because of her background in oncology, Leigh Ann is active with the Levine Children's Center. She loves to help both children and adults battling cancer. She is also involved with the Lupus Foundation and is active with the organization's fundraisers.
Leigh Ann has a blended family and knows both the struggles and the wonderful rewards that come with it. Family is one of the most important things in her life.
Leigh Ann became interested in family matters when she met her husband, and for the last 20 years she has helped him grow his private investigation firm into a successful, thriving business.
When she is not working Leigh Ann loves spending time with her family and friends. Her favorite pastime is going to the beach as much as possible and traveling to new places.
Job Titles:
- Associate
- Member of the Legal Team
- Paralegal
Liz Whitaker graduated from USC-Lancaster with an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice. She is a native of Lancaster, South Carolina. Liz started working in the legal field in 1998 as a courthouse runner and receptionist. Shortly thereafter, she moved to Maryland where she worked at a larger law firm as a receptionist. Years later, she became a legal secretary to the Managing Partner of that firm. She then moved back to South Carolina in 2016, where she continued to work in the legal field. Liz brings over 15 years of legal experience to Blood Law.
With her many years of legal experience, Liz is very compassionate in what she does and how she feels about clients in dealing with the stress of divorce and custody matters.
When she is not working, Liz enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter, traveling to the mountains and taking care of her cats and dogs.
Job Titles:
- Clerk
- Member of the Legal Team
- Lauren Andrews Associate Attorney
- Law Clerk
Michael Mohun is a graduate of Campbell University Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law. Michael is dedicated to guiding and assisting his clients in achieving their desired legal outcomes through his diligent advocacy.
During law school, he actively participated in the Innocence Project where he aided in reviewing, investigating, and making recommendations on various criminal cases pending in North Carolina. Michael has primarily interned with personal injury firms and workers compensation throughout his time in law school. He has been able to work on Family Law matters during his internships and his exposure to such experiences ignited his passion to help families in North Carolina and ensure that their needs are met.
Originally from McAllen, Texas, Michael attended Wake Forest University where he earned a bachelor's degree in psychology. He fell in love with North Carolina and has considered it his home since 2016. At Wake Forest University, he spent his free time doing community service for the Winston-Salem community with various student organizations.
In his free time, Michael enjoys spending time outdoors, playing basketball, reading, and binge-watching television shows.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Legal Team
- Paralegal
Niki High is our paralegal in our Charlotte office.
Niki graduated from Midlands Technical College in Columbia, SC with an Associate's in Paralegal Studies. She has been working in the legal field as a paralegal for well over a decade. She is experienced and knowledgeable in Estate and Probate Law, Criminal law, and Family Law as her main focus.
Niki is a very caring and compassionate individual who has always wanted to help people going through some of the most difficult and trying times in their lives. She became a paralegal not only from her fascination and understanding of law, but mainly to help people.
Niki is a South Carolina native. In her spare time, she enjoys going to live concerts, shows and festivals. Mostly she loves going on new adventures with her daughter. She also loves just relaxing at home with her daughter watching movies and playing with their 2 sweet kitties.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Legal Team
- Senior Attorney
Olivia is a compassionate and experienced family law attorney who is dedicated to helping clients navigate the legal complexities of family law. Olivia earned her Juris Doctorate from Campbell University, Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law, and is licensed to practice law in North Carolina. She has dedicated her legal career to helping clients through some of life's most challenging and emotional times.
As a family law attorney, Olivia understands the importance of effective communication and works tirelessly to ensure that clients are kept informed every step of the way. She takes the time to listen to clients' concerns and goals and works with them to develop a customized legal strategy that is tailored to their unique situation. Olivia has experience handling various family law issues, including divorce, child custody, child support, spousal support, property division, and more. She approaches each case with a commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for each client.
Olivia is a skilled negotiator who is committed to helping clients settle their disputes without going to court. She believes that resolving family law issues through negotiation and mediation can help clients save time, money, and emotional stress. However, Olivia is also prepared to litigate cases when necessary to protect clients' interests.
In addition to her legal work, Olivia enjoys reading, spending time with family, taking trips to the beach with her dog, and binge-watching television series.
Job Titles:
- Clerk
- Member of the Legal Team
- Law Clerk
Rachael Beller is a graduate of the University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law. She is excited and ready to help families in North Carolina with all their family law needs by ensuring that each case is handled with passion, empathy, and zealous advocacy.
During law school, Rachael was involved with the Legal Clinic where she handled many divorce, paternity, and estate planning cases. She was awarded the 2023 Clinical Legal Education Association's Outstanding Clinic Student Award based on her exemplary work advocating for her clients. Though Rachael interned with personal injury firms and worked in prosecution offices throughout school, she has found that Family Law is the best area for her to fervently advocate and defend clients on a personal level.
Originally from Columbus, Ohio, Rachael first found her love of advocating for North Carolinians during her time at Appalachian State University, where she earned degrees in Business Management and Marketing. Rachael's involvements have fueled a fire in her to fight against injustices. She has helped create initiatives that work to combat domestic violence that have been recognized by the Clinton Global Foundation, and she has worked with AEquitas in Washington, DC, to assist prosecutors around the country on legal cases involving domestic violence, stalking, and human trafficking.
Rachael's experiences allow her to empathize with clients, understand their unique needs, and work to ensure that their voice is heard.
Outside of her legal work, Rachael loves working out at Burn Boot Camp, spending time on the lake, and playing violin.
Job Titles:
- Clerk
- Member of the Legal Team
- Law Clerk
Samantha hails from Scranton, Pennsylvania and, yes, she is an avid fan of The Office. She obtained her bachelor's degree in Psychology from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She then went on and obtained her master's degree in Forensic Psychology from Marymount University in Arlington, Virginia.
Working as a Forensic Psychologist with adolescents and young adults, she honed her skills in assessing and in providing the utmost psychological care to her clients. Feeling a calling to the law, she obtained her juris doctorate from Widener University Commonwealth Law School in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
While attending law school, she worked as a certified legal intern for the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections, for the Pennsylvania office of the Attorney General, and for Federal District Judge, the Honorable Malachy Mannion.
She worked as a Law Clerk for President Judge, the Honorable Janine Edwards in Honesdale, Pennsylvania. Following that, she spent time as a Paralegal for Attorney Jeanne Colombo in Rochester, New York. Having lived in Charlotte twice before, she returned to the area where she worked as a Private Investigator and a Financial Crimes Investigator.
Job Titles:
- Client Relations Coordinator
Savannah is a native of Chesterfield County in SC. After graduating from Central High School, she is currently enrolled in the University of South Carolina Lancaster dedicated to finish pursuing her bachelor's degree in nursing. She dreams of opening her own office after obtaining her degree. Savannah's compassion for helping others is what drives her in her work.
Savannah loves helping the children in her community in any way she can! Because of her background with pageantry, Savannah has been involved and hosted numerous fundraisers for the children in her community. Her biggest achievement was accomplished after donating over 400 toys to her local primary school for the holidays.
When she is not working, Savannah loves spending time with her family and friends, traveling, and enjoying new restaurants.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Legal Team
- Client Relations Coordinator
Tandi Gerow is a Union County, North Carolina native and currently resides in Monroe, North Carolina. She obtained her Diploma in Paralegal Technology in 2010. Since then, her career has included over ten years of experience as a certified paralegal in the legal field in areas including criminal law, family law and education law.
Tandi currently works as a Client Relations Coordinator for Blood Law and takes pride in her role as the liaison between clients and our legal staff.
When Tandi is not working, she enjoys spending time with her two sons, gardening, and cooking.