About Us

My name is Maralina J. Schoenfelder, an attorney, combat veteran, and passionate advocate for children's rights with 13 years of experience. My journey includes a Juris Doctorate from the University of Wyoming and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Colorado State University, all dedicated to a career in public service.

As the owner of Schoenfelder Law LLC, I offer unwavering representation to indigent adult and juvenile clients, with a specialization in juvenile defense. My dedication extends to battling juvenile solitary confinement and ending indiscriminate shackling. With my commitment to the military in the Wyoming Army National Guard and deployments to Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan, I have dedicated my entire working career towards serving others and their need for advocacy. 

Extending into international waters, I've operated as a liaison between United Kingdom non-governmental organizations and the UK Government Delegation, contributing to discussions on gender-responsive budgeting. This includes providing assistance for the Women’s National Commission-United side panel event “An Economy for Equality - A dialogue with governments on gender responsive budgeting.”

My multifaceted career showcases an unwavering pursuit of justice, children's well-being, and community service. My legal experience and military background amplify my voice as a catalyst for positive change, qualifying my expertise in both legal and humanitarian spheres.

Awards and Recognition: 

2017- Pueblo Bar Association: Outstanding Young Lawyer Award

2016: The Arc of Pueblo Board Member | 2017 - Current: Secretary and Board Member

2016 - Colorado State Public Defender System: Attorney of the Year

2016 - Division of Youth Services: Award for Significant Contributions to Senate Bill 94 

2014 - 2017 Chair/Vice Chair of the 10th Judicial Juvenile Services Planning Committee Board | Senate Bill 94

2014 - Current: Nurse Family Partnership Board Member 

2014: Nominated for Colorado State Public Defender of the Year

2014: Colorado ACLU Rights and Action Award Recipient

2013: Colorado State Public Defender Gideon Award Recipient

2013: Outstanding Juvenile Defender of The Year

Received over 20 military awards from 1997 to 2010 including

  • 2005, 2010 Army Commendation Medal 

  • 2005 The Afghanistan Campaign Medal

  • 2010 Iraqi Freedom Campaign Medal 

  • 2005, 2010 Overseas Service Medal

  • 2005 Noncommissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon 

  • 2005 Combat Action Badge