GET TO KNOW SNA MEMBER ASHLEY SHANNON BURKE, CELA

While in undergraduate, I worked for a common pleas judge. From that experience I learned that I did not want to practice in an area with constant fighting. I wanted to practice in an area that involved working with individuals and families. I find corporate or contract law unbearably boring. I wanted to help people and make a difference in their lives. During law school, I clerked for a special needs and elder law attorney. I fell in love with the practice area. It allows me to help families navigate a complex system so they can focus on their child or loved one.

I help families with loved ones of all ages navigate the complex area of disability resources and planning. This involves ensuring the disabled individual receives the assistance and benefits needed, and helping their families navigate current and future needs. I help parents or other caregivers plan beyond when they may no longer be there to help their disabled loved one.

I tell law students interested in this area that it is a great practice area where you can problem solve for clients while working in a variety of different legal specialties. I routinely work with estate planning, probate, Medicaid, and social security. While it can involve emotional topics, don’t be surprised to get a hug from the client at the end a meeting, which is one of my favorite things about this practice area.

I grew up on a farm and participated in 4-H and FFA. I was the local county fair Pork Princess when I was in 7th grade. This involved riding in parades, passing out pork samples at the grocery store and other local events, and awarding ribbons and trophies during the fair.

Something more recent is my love of traveling with my family. My 4-year-old twin daughters have already visited 39 states with plans to visit 6 more states in 2025.

My dad and husband.

My dad was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis over 40 years ago. He had his large intestine removed and has an ileostomy. This led to numerous other health issues and surgeries. This was compounded when he contracted Covid in 2021, leading to severe breathing issues. Despite these struggles, he has never given up. He shows up every day for his family.

My husband is a military veteran. He served in Afghanistan and had experiences that most non-military members cannot imagine. He went through a period of trying to cope by himself with that trauma, but thankfully acknowledge he needed help. He sought treatment and has come out better and stronger for his family. Through this journey he rekindled a love of running and is running the 2025 Boston Marathon and 2025 NYC Marathon to support military charities. He is dedicated and determined to be a better person not only for himself, but his family.

The ideal Saturday is spending time with my family. We typically start the day making waffles and then spending time outside. We love to ski, ride bikes, play at the playground, or just go for a walk. We also enjoy exploring new places. Taking a ride to a new park or restaurant is always a great Saturday afternoon.

Managing my own firm and raising 4-year-old twins does not leave much free time. These days I primarily listen to Disney songs and read children’s books with my girls. My book recommendation is a children’s book – Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae. It is a great book about overcoming obstacles in life and embracing one’s differences, finding your own unique rhythm, and building confidence.