Paula is an Attorney and a Registered Nurse. Paula graduated from the Hunter College-Bellevue Hospital School of Nursing in New York City in 1975. She received a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from Columbia University in 1983.

 Paula graduated from the Seattle University School of Law in 1990, and she has practiced law in Alaska since that time. Paula has a great interest in legal issues involving access to health and medical care. She is a frequent speaker in the areas of Special Needs Trusts, Long-Term Care, and Public Benefits including Medicaid and Social Security. She has taught numerous classes on those subjects to other lawyers, medical professionals, Social Workers, and professional and family guardians. Paula has also presented seminars and classes to families and individuals who are interested in learning more about issues affecting elders, individuals with special needs, and individuals who wish to have a better understanding of the various State and Federal programs that are available. Paula is a prolific gardener. When not working as a lawyer or working in her garden, she can be found kayaking, hiking, fishing, or traveling to remote corners of the world.