Partner Profile: Bryony Coiner

The DC Bar Foundation is fortunate to have dedicated and passionate leadership members who support our work to expand access to justice in the District. Today, we feature Bryony Coiner, Staff Attorney at DC Bar Foundation grantee partner Legal Counsel for the Elderly. Bryony is a member of the Foundation's Young Lawyers Network Leadership Council and recently served as Program Committee Co-Chair for this year's Avenues to Justice event.

Where did you grow up?

Hemet, California

What brought you to DC?

I originally came to DC because my boyfriend (now husband) lived here. I was originally planning on living in DC for a year before I moved back to California. I've been here for 6 years and I have totally fallen in love with the city's culture and passion for social justice.

What was your first job in DC and what did you learn?

My first position out of law school was as a legal fellow at Neighborhood Legal Services Program (NLSP) in DC. In that role, I learned the importance of meeting clients where they're at - both geographically and emotionally. My colleagues were whole-heartedly compassionate and zealous and I found it to be a very inspiring environment to work in.

Daily Habit

I have a mandatory morning ritual that includes a full breakfast, cuddles with my cat, and catching up on reality TV. Starting my morning peacefully prepares me to take on the emotionally difficult work I encounter during the day.

If you could have dinner with one person, dead or alive, who would it be?

It would be a tie between two of my grandparents that passed away. I have always cherished the wisdom they've shared with me during my childhood and I would love to get their perspective now that I'm an adult.

What is your favorite museum in DC?

It might not be a museum but I love the US Botanic Gardens. As a Southern California native I still struggle with the concept of winter and I find it to be a nice, warm, relaxing place to be when it's cold outside.

If I hadn't become a lawyer, I would be a...

social worker and/or bartender. I love the social and creative aspects of being a lawyer, and I think I would enjoy the same elements in those jobs as well.

Legal aid is important to me because...

It's important to me to spend my time adding value to the community that I benefit from. At LCE, we assist DC residents 60+ who have worked incredibly hard their whole lives to stay afloat and it's an honor to be able to help them pursue their goals.

Your dream for our legal system is...

a system that is equitable and accessible to all citizens. In my opinion, lawyers would not be necessary in a perfect legal system.

Little known fact about your organization

LCE is affiliated with AARP - so all employees, regardless of age, are lifetime AARP members!