Today we’d like to introduce you to Deidra Moore
Hi Deidra, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
In 1996, as a single mom, to one child, and after nine years of full-time employment with TIAA-CREF, a Manhattan based company, Deidra quit her job as a commercial real estate paralegal to attend the City University of New York School of Law (“CUNY School of Law”).
It would be three years later, in 1999, that Deidra successfully completes the demands of law school, and start her legal career as a Public Defender with the Legal Aid Society. As a Public Defender, she represented people of the indigent population – people charged with a crime; and who, for whatever reason, could not afford legal representation.
In 2004, nearly five years later, Deidra departed the Legal Aid Society and entered private practice; having established and became the CEO of The Law Offices of Deidra R. Moore, P.C. Deidra advises and litigates on all aspects of matrimonial law, guardianship matters, trusts and estates law, elder law and wrongful death cases.
It would be in 2022, after 20 years of practicing law, that Deidra’s career pivoted to whereby she became a published Author. In June, 2022 she authored her first book, From Me, To You: The Power of Storytelling and its Inherent Generational Wealth!
In August, 2023, Deidra received a coveted national book award – from the National Association of Black Journalists. In October, 2023, she created and published a coloring and activity book (with an associated tabletop book) titled The Civil Rights Movement – A Coloring and Activity Book – Featuring Phenomenal People with Phenomenal Stories!
Having written this book, and as an African American mother, wife, a practicing attorney, and advocate for social change – Deidra, by using her voice, identity, purpose and lived experiences – finds herself on a mission to educate as many of our youth about the value of investing in themselves and in learning about their history.
In 2024 she stands before you, nominated by the Bronx Democratic County Committee (Chairman Jamaal Bailey) – as a judicial candidate for Civil Court of the City of New York.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My journey thus far has been marked by a combination of obstacles and achievements. The qualities and skills I possess today—integrity, impartiality, diligence, and organizational prowess—have been honed through both personal growth and professional development.
My personal growth encompasses a pivotal period when, as a single mother to my daughter, I made the bold decision to leave my full-time job to pursue a legal education. During this time, I faced daunting financial responsibilities, including a mortgage, car payments, insurance, and tuition for my daughter’s schooling. To navigate these challenges while attending law school full-time, I took on three part-time jobs. It was an incredibly taxing period in my life, and there were countless nights when tears were my only solace.
I am profoundly grateful for the unwavering support of my late maternal grandmother, who, to the best of her ability, provided me with emotional sustenance during this arduous journey. However, beyond her, I lacked the familial support that many others may take for granted.
Reflecting on this experience, I am impassioned by the importance of empowering younger generations to embrace their voices and understand their history. I recognize the transformative impact of education, and I am driven to ensure that others have access to the support and guidance they need to overcome their own trials and tribulations. My grandmother instilled in me the value of education, but it was her solitary voice amidst a sea of silence.
As I continue my journey, I carry with me the lessons learned from those challenging times. I am committed to leveraging my experiences to uplift others, particularly those who, like me, have faced adversity without the support they deserve. Together, we can create a future where every individual is empowered to pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they may encounter along the way.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Following graduation from law school, I dedicated nearly five years to public service as a public defender at the Legal Aid Society before venturing into private practice. As the CEO of Deidra R. Moore, P.C., I have championed various areas of law, including Criminal Law (until 06/11/15), Matrimonial Law, Guardianships, Trusts and Estates, Elder Law, and Pro Bono services. It’s been 18 years of being in private practice – and it gave me great joy to have been able to give back to my community in varying ways. Over the past 18 years I have been able to provide flexible work hours to single moms/guardians; and provided internships to our youth – because representation matters.
It would be in June, 2022 that I would become a published author – having written a book titled “From Me, To You: The Power of Storytelling and its Inherent Generational Wealth! – a book for which I recently received a National book award from the National Association of Black Journalists. This book is essentially about the value of having identity and self-worth. In Oct., 2023, I have since authored two additional books – one being a coloring and activity book; and an associated table top book. I use these three books as a tool to uplift and empower individuals across communities, particularly black and brown children. This book speaks to my passion for education and empowerment, particularly within the African American community.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
As a private practitioner in the legal profession, I anticipate a greater integration of technology, such as AI-driven legal research tools and virtual law firms. Additionally, there might be a shift towards alternative fee arrangements and an increased focus on diversity and inclusion within law firms.
As a published author, the industry is likely to see continued growth in self-publishing and digital distribution channels, with authors leveraging social media and online platforms to reach their audience directly. Genres like speculative fiction and non-fiction narratives may gain more prominence, and there might be a greater emphasis on diverse voices and representation in literature.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.deidramoore,com
- Instagram: www.deidramooreforjudge
- Youtube: www.Deidra Moore-Janvier
