Fight for Justice: Julie Martindill

As a staff attorney for our Parenting Order Legal Line (POLL), Julie demystifies the law for clients, helping them navigate confusing court orders and understand their visitation rights. Julie’s patience and compassion empower families and strengthen the fight for justice.

On her work at TLSC…

I’ve been with TLSC for ten years, working on the Parenting Order Legal Line (POLL). I believe POLL is an incredible program because it helps parents to understand their legal rights when it comes to their children. So many of our clients come to us feeling frustrated, confused, and overwhelmed by their court orders. Through our chat service, we’re able to review their orders, explain their rights, and help them make sense of their possession schedules. That knowledge often brings a sense of relief and confidence that helps reduce conflict between parents and ultimately benefits their children.

This is a service that is difficult to find at no cost. Knowing that we can make such a meaningful impact in the lives of families is what has kept me passionate about POLL for the past decade.

On her approach with clients

The law and parental rights can feel overwhelming. I focus on breaking down their rights and legal options in a way that’s clear and easy to understand. I want parents to fully understand their visitation rights and responsibilities so they can avoid unnecessary confusion or conflict. My goal is to empower them with the knowledge and tools to enforce those rights if the other parent denies visitation.

I work with clients via chat providing advice, information and resources related to access and visitation issues. I also assist clients by reviewing their custody orders and explaining their visitation schedule.  When appropriate, I also prepare customized visitation calendars and create demand letters for clients to send to parents withholding visitation of their children. 

On her journey in nonprofit work…

I began my journey in nonprofit work as a paralegal for Volunteer Legal Services before heading to law school. That experience really opened my eyes to the difference we could make, seeing how many people we were able to help and what a positive impact it can have on so many people’s lives.

On how her experience affects work…

I was born and raised in Panama and moved to the United States as a young child. Since then, I’ve lived in El Paso and Puerto Rico before settling in Austin for college. These experiences exposed me to diverse cultures and perspectives, giving me valuable insight into the backgrounds of the clients I serve.