Gisela Laurent, is an experienced State and Federal Trial Attorney with a strong reputation for fairness and commitment to public service. If elected Judge, Gisela would be the first Female Hispanic County Court Judge for Orange County.
It is imperative for our judicial system in Orange County Florida to be reflective of the communities served. There is no question that increasing diversity on the bench will “improve the quality of justice.”
Here is a brief background about Gisela.
Gisela was born in Ohio and her parents are from the Dominican Republic. Growing up, she describes witnessing her parents work long and hard hours to provide the best future for their children. To her parents, she attributes her work ethic, commitment to excellence, and determination.
Gisela attended Riverside Elementary, Lockhart Middle School and in 1994 graduated from Evans High School. She later graduated with Honors from the University of Florida Warrington College of Business in 1997 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and a Specialization in Mass Communications.
Upon graduation from college, Gisela accepted a position with KPMG as an auditor. Gisela later returned to Gainesville to attend the University of Florida Levin College of Law and received her law degree in 2003.
Gisela is married to Bradley N. Laurent and they reside in South West Orange County Florida along with four beautiful daughters.
We asked Gisela to share with the LATISM community a little about herself and this is what she had to say:
What are the issues that you care about? “As an attorney and member of the community, I want everyone to have fair access to the courts. I believe in due process and Justice for all. I strongly believe that every one who comes to the courthouse should be treated with dignity and respect. As a county court judge I will work hard to ensure people maintain their faith in our justice system by protecting to integrity of the judiciary.”
Why did you decide to run for Judge? “My parents are hard working immigrants who gave up everything to ensure I had a strong foundation and education. My decision to run for judge is my way of continuing the legacy of hard work and commitment to my community. I want to Pay Forward everything my parents and Orange County have given to me.”
Who is your opponent? “As of now I do not have an opponent. I hope to keep it that way!”
Tell us about your training and experience? “I started my career in public service! I was an Assistant Public Defender in the Ninth Judicial Circuit under the Honorable Robert Wesley. I then entered private practice where I have served my clients as a Trial Attorney in the areas of Criminal Defense, Family Law and Immigration for over a decade. I prepare all of my cases as if they were going to trial from day 1 in order to ensure my clients receive the best possible outcome from my services.”
Why should the community vote for you? “I am dedicated to a life of public service. I am truly seeking to earn the vote of the community who deserves a hard working judge who cares about them. As a bilingual judge, I am in a better position to understand and administer justice to all who appear before me.”
Has the Orange County Ninth Judicial Circuit Court ever had a Female Hispanic Judge? “Unfortunately, in the history of Orange County, we have never had a Female Hispanic Judge in County Court. I am not sure why but I am stepping forward to change that.”
“In Orange County Florida, Hispanics make up 30 percent of the population. However, when it comes down to voting, Hispanics are extremely under represented. We need to get out and make our votes count if we want to see more Hispanics in leadership!”
How can our local community become involved? “Visit my website www.laurentforjudge.com.”
Contact information:
Gisela T. Laurent, Esq.
Laurent Law Firm, P.A
2813 S. Hiawassee Road, Suite 102
Orlando, Florida 32835
Office: (407) 298-5373
Fax: (407) 298-5384
