AYLA Member Spotlight: Will Shindler

AYLA: Tell us a little bit about yourself and your law practice.

Shindler: I grew up on a ranch outside of Bay City, about 20 minutes from the coast. I made my way to Austin and earned my undergraduate degree from The University of Texas. After my time at UT, I moved to Houston where I received my law degree from the University of Houston. In 2018, I returned to Austin to practice family law at CHA Law Group.

AYLA: What area of law do you practice?

Shindler: I focus on family law— everything from divorce and child custody to adoption law, gestational law, and surrogacy law. CHA Law Group prides itself in welcoming traditional and non-traditional families, offering LGBTQ+/ Queer-specific legal services. Need to adopt your girlfriend’s baby that was grown from your egg through reciprocal IVF? We’re your firm. Need to correct your gender identity on your driver’s license? I’ve got you covered.

AYLA: What are some of the things you enjoy most about living in Austin?

Shindler: I love Austin’s mix of urban culture and outdoor activities. I have really come to appreciate all that it has to offer, especially during the pandemic. At a time we are all trying to be safe and physically distanced from one another, I like to take advantage of the many hiking, biking, and running trails.

AYLA: How long have you been involved in AYLA and what’s been your best AYLA experience so far?

Shindler: I joined AYLA shortly after moving to Austin in 2018, and it has been a great way for me to network. I have been able to meet many dedicated and talented lawyers who I admire professionally and have served as mentors to me. I joined the AYLA board in 2019 as a liaison between AYLA and the Austin Bar’s LGBT Law Section and it has been the best experience. AYLA offers so many varying opportunities to get involved in the Austin community, whether it be through their networking events or the community service days.

AYLA: What’s your favorite moment of your career so far?

Shindler: I have so much appreciation for being able to witness my clients’ emotions after providing legal security to the way they have decided to live their lives—whether they are in a same-sex relationship raising a child, or a more traditional family who have decided to adopt. AL

Will Shindler