Samantha Gilchrist
Family Law Legal Paraprofessional
Empathetic • Driven • Energetic
Samantha Gilchrist brings a dynamic blend of education, experience, and personal style to her work at Modern Law. Originally from Chicago, Samantha relocated to Phoenix in 2019 to pursue her law degree and quickly fell in love with Arizona’s vibrant outdoor community and sun-drenched landscape. Her energetic approach to her legal career mirrors her love for the outdoors, fitness, and exploration.
Samantha is drawn to family law by a genuine desire to make a positive difference in people’s lives during their most challenging moments. Her approach balances empathy with honesty, ensuring clients feel supported while also being informed about the realities of their case. She is committed to helping clients feel heard, understood, and guided throughout the legal process.
Quick Facts About Sam
Education
Juris Doctor, Arizona State University
Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, 2022
Bachelor of Arts, Political Science
Loyola University Chicago, 2019
Star Sign & Enneagram Type
♌️ Leo
Type 4 – The Heart-Led Advocate: Sam is empathetic, self-aware, and values showing up authentically for her clients. She brings emotional depth and creativity into her work, especially in sensitive situations.
Fun Fact
Originally from Chicago, Samantha enjoys exploring the outdoors through hiking and visiting National Parks. She is a fitness enthusiast with a passion for challenging workouts and spends her downtime with her two Australian Shepherds, Mia and Bella, who add energy and joy to her life outside of work.
What it's like to work with Sam
Before joining Modern Law, Samantha gained experience across a range of legal settings, including a private criminal defense firm, a tax firm within a larger personal injury practice, and work as an independent mediator and arbitrator. Her time in criminal defense sharpened her advocacy skills and reinforced the importance of strong client relationships, clear communication, and thoughtful preparation.
Although she is new to family law, Samantha brings a fresh perspective grounded in careful attention to detail and a strong ability to gather and organize comprehensive client information. Her collegiate involvement with domestic violence awareness has further shaped her understanding of personal and family dynamics, informing her compassionate and client-centered approach. Samantha views her role as one of advocacy, support, and positive impact, working closely with clients to help them move forward with clarity and confidence.
What it's like to work with Sam
Before joining Modern Law, Samantha gained experience across a range of legal settings, including a private criminal defense firm, a tax firm within a larger personal injury practice, and work as an independent mediator and arbitrator. Her time in criminal defense sharpened her advocacy skills and reinforced the importance of strong client relationships, clear communication, and thoughtful preparation.
Although she is new to family law, Samantha brings a fresh perspective grounded in careful attention to detail and a strong ability to gather and organize comprehensive client information. Her collegiate involvement with domestic violence awareness has further shaped her understanding of personal and family dynamics, informing her compassionate and client-centered approach. Samantha views her role as one of advocacy, support, and positive impact, working closely with clients to help them move forward with clarity and confidence.
Getting to Know Sam
If you weren't in the legal profession, what would your alternative career be?
Something creative. Ideally working as an artist, interior designer, or architect, where creativity and problem-solving come together in a more visual way.
Which fictional lawyer or legal character do you resonate with the most? Why?
Elle Woods. She is often underestimated, but deeply passionate about what she does, determined to prove people wrong, and relentless when it comes to advocating for others.
If you could create a new law, what would it be and why?
First, federal paid parental leave. It should already exist. Second, a mandatory four-day workweek. Having a consistent Friday-through-Sunday weekend would create healthier work-life balance and better long-term productivity.
If you could have a legal-themed superpower, what would it be and why?
The ability to do multiple things at once. Writing pleadings simultaneously, managing details efficiently, and staying sharp under pressure would allow me to work faster without sacrificing quality.
