Before receiving her law degree in 1982, Ms. Flatt had a fourteen-year career as a teacher and probation officer. Those experiences gave her insight into human nature and what motivates people. She approaches cases by finding out what people need and then helping them develop a strategy to get it. Ms. Flatt frequently lectures on disability rights issues and served for twelve years on the board of directors of Community Resources for Independence, an independent living center serving Sonoma, Napa, Lake and Mendocino counties. She is also a trained mediator; her mediation practice is limited to employment and real estate issues. Gail has enjoyed living in Santa Rosa with her husband Ron since 1973. She is a self-proclaimed golf nut and cooking fanatic. She is addicted to sports, especially basketball.