Fernanda Benavides
About Fernanda Benavides
Fernanda Benavides is a Public Defender currently working at Texas RioGrande Legal Aid in Rio Grande City, Texas. She has a diverse background in law and public policy, having previously interned at various legal and advocacy organizations.
Current Role at Texas RioGrande Legal Aid
Fernanda Benavides has been serving as a Public Defender at Texas RioGrande Legal Aid since 2020. In this role, she provides legal representation and advocacy for clients in need, focusing on ensuring access to justice for underserved populations in Rio Grande City, Texas. Her work involves navigating complex legal issues and representing clients in various legal proceedings.
Previous Experience at Fulton County Juvenile Court
Prior to her current position, Fernanda Benavides interned at Fulton County Juvenile Court for three months in 2020. She worked under Judge Christopher Yokom in the Greater Atlanta Area, gaining valuable experience in the juvenile justice system. This role provided her with insights into judicial processes and the challenges faced by youth in the legal system.
Educational Background at Emory University School of Law
Fernanda Benavides earned her Juris Doctorate from Emory University School of Law, where she studied from 2017 to 2020. This rigorous legal education equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary for her career in public defense and advocacy. Her studies focused on various aspects of law, preparing her for her subsequent roles in legal services.
Diverse Work Experience in Legal and Advocacy Roles
Fernanda Benavides has held various positions that reflect her commitment to public service and advocacy. She worked as a Sexual Assault Advocate at the Sexual Assault Resource Center in 2016, and as a Public Policy Intern at the Embassy of Mexico in 2017. Additionally, she served as a Legal Intern at both the Latin American Association and the Federal Aviation Administration, gaining a broad perspective on legal issues and public policy.
Academic Achievements at Texas A&M University
Fernanda Benavides completed her Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Women's and Gender Studies at Texas A&M University from 2014 to 2017. Her academic focus on these disciplines provided her with a strong foundation in critical thinking and social justice, which informs her work in public defense and advocacy.