Family Law/Domestic Relations

Brooke Rosen

Johnson, Rosen & O’Keeffe LLC
Roanoke

Title: Partner

Birthplace: Pulaski

Education: Bachelor’s degree in economics, human and organizational development, Vanderbilt University; law degree, Columbus School of Law, Catholic University

Spouse: Court Rosen

Children: Oliver, 9, and Bruce, 5

Hobbies: Mountain biking, running, reading

First job as a lawyer: Gentry Locke Rakes & Moore LLP in Roanoke

Fan of: Spontaneous trips, summer days at the lake and family movie nights

Favorite vacation spot: Pawleys Island, S.C.

Recently read book: “Dopesick” by Beth Macy

Career mentor: Bill Gust and Bruce Stockburger at Gentry Locke

How do you help couples divide assets and liabilities in a divorce or separation?
First, I try to understand the immediate wants and desires of my client and how those compare to the other party. Then, I talk with my clients about practical concerns such as transfer limitations, tax liabilities and preservation of value over time. I tell almost every client that is having a hard time making a decision that we are not making decisions just for the here and now but for the person he/she will be five and 10 years from now.

You are chair of the board of directors of the YMCA of Virginia’s Blue Ridge. How does your family law background help you in leading that organization? Like any good lawyer serving on a nonprofit board, I offer the feedback on the organization’s legal questions. I am also a big advocate for the YMCA’s youth programs because of my work with families, especially as a Guardian ad Litem. But the benefits also flow the other way. I love being able to suggest the YMCA as a resource to any family experiencing a crisis, whether it be for childcare, physical wellness or for finding a welcoming community.