Araceli Rodriguez is a partner at the law firm of Walsma & Rodriguez, P.C. and has been practicing law in the Yuma area for nearly a decade.
Born and raised in Somerton, she was the valedictorian for her class at Cibola High School and went on to earn a degree from Stanford University before returning home to work for a member of Congress. She later earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Arizona College of Law, where she focused on water law and environmental policy, including work with the Department of Justice’s Environment and Natural Resources Division in Washington, D.C.
Today, Araceli’s practice focuses on probate and trust administration, real property matters and advising local business clients. She also serves as a hearing officer for the City of Yuma and is known for helping clients clearly understand their legal rights while guiding them through complex legal issues. Walsma and Rodriguez are underwriters for KAWC.
Full disclosure: Araceli is married to KAWC reporter and What's Up Yuma co-host Victor Calderón. They live in Yuma with their maltipoo Coco.
Araceli spoke with us about growing up in Somerton's La Mesa neighborhood, how she and Victor met, why estate planning is for everyone and what it's like having a supportive group of women lawyers and professionals in Yuma County.
