Today we’d like to introduce you to Gretchen M Ortiz.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Gretchen M. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I’ve been an entrepreneur for as long as I can remember! While in college, pursuing a degree in legal studies, I worked as a loan processor, mortgage loan originator, realtor and eventually began working for a title company as an escrow officer. Shortly before graduation, I was involved in a horrific car accident with my two little ones on board that would forever change my life and the way I viewed the legal world. As a result of that experience, I decided not to work for a firm and opened my very own title company. I loved it so much that shortly thereafter I also founded a mortgage and real estate company! I loved helping and guiding my clients from the beginning of the home buying process to the end. Helping my clients achieve their dream of owning a home, while building long lasting relationships, not only fulfilled my heart but also made them and myself smile.
There’s a saying that says that when it rains it pours! And unfortunately that is exactly what happened to me in 2008 when I was forced to close my businesses due to the national financial crisis, which ultimately led to a recession, while at the same time my significant other had just being diagnosed with a stage four cancer after many, many misdiagnosis. This forced me to take a step back (which I now see as a step forward) and really look within myself to find peace, the strength I didn’t know I had, courage, and bravery. This journey within was not an easy one. At times I cried, at times I laughed. But what I learned was that everything happens for a reason and that in every situation there’s a lesson to be learned and something to be grateful about. Throughout this time, my passion to help others grew immensely. Consequently, I decided to go to law school and become a personal injury and medical malpractice lawyer so that I could help those going through the experiences I had with compassion, empathy and kindness.
The journey wasn’t easy, but what I learned is priceless.
Has it been a smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road! As many of you know, this is a very competitive career, not many are willing to help, and it can be stressful at times. However, I believe that where there’s a will, there’s a way – and if I can’t find a way, I make my own. I’m not one to give up, so I’ve learned to befriend fear and keep moving forward.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
My firm, the Law Office of Gretchen M. Ortiz, is a boutique law firm with a focus on real estate law, contracts, medical malpractice, personal injury and wrongful death. What I’m most proud of is our culture, which is one of compassion, empathy and kindness. We’ve all seen the billboards, the TV ads and/or magazines of big law firms, and while I understand they serve a purpose, it’s never been, neither will ever be my goal. At our firm, our clients become family. We build relationships. I founded a firm in which clients are known, heard, and understood. I pride myself in meeting each and every client and understanding their needs – some I leave with a smile at the closing table, while others I guide towards the beginning of a new life. Feels good to make a difference!
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love Florida. Every city has its charm, and while traffic can be nuance, I use the time to meditate and plan my next day.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.gretchenortizlaw.com
- Phone: 855-437-9373
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawofficeofgretchenortiz/
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/gortizlaw
Image Credit:
Aimee
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