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Family Foundations

Meet Catherine Medina, whose family’s 40-year legacy has helped shape her career and community service

There are many reasons to be thankful for family. They form the foundation of emotional, social, and moral development. They offer guidance and stability and pass down traditions, values, and wisdom. Such is the case for one local woman and the legacy her family has created.

At only 30 years old, Catherine Medina is the owner and managing attorney of Medina Family Law Associates in Glendale (MMAZLawFirm.com). Medina started working for a local law firm just out of law school. Within a few months, she learned her boss planned to retire, so with some encouragement from colleagues and family, she decided to buy the firm. It took a lot of discipline, ambition, and determination to purchase a law firm at such a young age, and Medina attributes that gumption to her large, close-knit family.

“In our home, no goal was too ambitious,” says Medina. “Growing up, I never felt that what I wanted was out of reach, and I always had support from my family that helped set me up for success.”

The Medinas have owned and operated a concrete company, GMS Concrete (GMSConcrete.com), for over 40 years and have made many meaningful connections over the decades. As long-time Glendale residents and business owners, they are pillars of the community.

When Medina was a child, her grandfather purchased a street and some undeveloped land in the area so his children and their families could build their own houses. 

“We call it the Medina family compound, and I grew up surrounded by my uncles, aunts, grandparents, and cousins,” Medina explains. “Being around them so much has given me many of the core values that enable me to practice family law today.”

My family has always been available to support me. Without their advice and connections, I wouldn't be where I am today. 

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