Micaél P. Estremera
Q: How did you first hear about CRLA?
I first learned about CRLA’s work when I was a law student at Santa Clara University, but it wasn’t until I was an attorney that I became much more familiar with CRLA’s tremendous accomplishments. As president of the California La Raza Lawyers Association, I had the pleasure of getting to know CRLA’s amazing Executive Director, José Padilla, which further interested me in helping the organization.
Q: Do you have any family or friends who are/were farmworkers?
I have many family members and friends who worked in various farms throughout California, but no one more influential than my Abuelo. He still regularly talks to me about the arduous work he did in the fields, occasionally to lament poor conditions, and frequently with pride in what he endured to raise his family.
Q: What motivated you to become an attorney? Choose your current job?
I grew up watching my parents work and advocate for poor people in our community, both professionally and in their personal lives (my mother as a nurse and my father as an attorney). They urged me to use education to do similar work in my life. Although I considered the healthcare field, I decided my skills were better suited to work as an attorney. Currently I work as a public defender, representing poor people in criminal proceedings.
Q: Where did you attend law school?
I attended law school at Santa Clara University School of Law.
Q: What are your personal hobbies or interests?
I mostly enjoy good times with family and friends, along with politics and sports.