In 2024, Emily Thayer established her own law practice in Longmont, serving Boulder, Weld, Adams, Larimer, and beyond. By 2025, she formally launched Thayer Legal Defense with a bold mission: to provide empowered representation where every client is seen, heard, educated, and supported in choosing the path that is right for them. Emily believes that no two cases are the same, and no two outcomes should be assumed. Her firm is built on integrity, compassion, and the conviction that advocacy can transform lives and uplift communities.

Before founding her firm, Emily worked at McKinley Law Group, representing hundreds of clients in criminal defense and family law cases. She specialized in substance‑abuse related crimes such as DUI and domestic violence, while also collaborating with respected immigration attorneys. This experience deepened her understanding of immigration law and its intersection with criminal defense, allowing her to craft strategies that accounted for both legal and personal consequences.

Emily’s foundation as an advocate was built at the Colorado State Public Defender’s Office, where she represented adults and juveniles in misdemeanor and felony cases. She successfully conducted jury trials, bond hearings, and probation violation hearings, while managing a demanding docket with precision. Her trauma‑informed communication and professionalism in high‑stakes adversarial settings earned her respect across the justice system. Emily also contributed to systemic reform as a representative on the Bail Bonds Committee and Pro Bono Committee.

Following her service as a Public Defender, Emily became a Staff Attorney at Colorado Legal Services, where she focused on family law, wills, landlord‑tenant disputes, and advocacy for survivors of domestic violence. She combined litigation with community education, co‑presenting at statewide conferences and resource days, and serving as Co‑President of the Domestic Violence Task Force Board. Her work highlighted her ability to blend courtroom advocacy with community leadership, ensuring vulnerable populations had both representation and a voice.

Emily’s commitment to justice began long before law school. As a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), she championed the best interests of abused and neglected children, amplifying voices that might otherwise go unheard. These early experiences instilled in her a deep respect for individual rights and the belief that true justice requires not only legal defense but also empowerment and education.

Emily is recognized as an experienced negotiator with ample courtroom experience across daily dockets, motions, and trials. She is not only a lawyer but a leader, educator, and advocate who believes that for every client empowered, a stronger community emerges. Her vision is clear: justice pursued with integrity, advocacy rooted in compassion, and representation that transforms lives and lifts communities.

While not bilingual, Emily speaks Spanish and brings a deep appreciation for the cultures of Central and South America. She values the vibrancy of their traditions, the richness of their languages, and the warmth of their food and communities. This cultural connection enhances her ability to serve diverse clients with respect and understanding, reflecting her belief that advocacy must honor the individuality and heritage of every person she represents.