Attorney Ma Moua

A Path to Law and Justice

Growing up in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Ma Moua’s interest in law was sparked by her experiences witnessing racial disparities in media coverage and legal cases. Seeing minorities receive harsher penalties than their white counterparts motivated her to pursue a career where she could advocate for fair representation and equal treatment. Her passion was cemented when, as a high school student, she interned with the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office. This experience allowed her to observe attorneys at work, and her curiosity grew as she shadowed judges and attorneys who showed her the possibility of a career in law.

Without any Hmong legal professionals to look up to at the time, Ma was influenced by mentors from diverse backgrounds who offered her guidance and support. Their kindness, along with her growing interest in justice, propelled her forward. “I didn’t have a Hmong attorney to inspire me,” she explains, “but I found inspiration in the attorneys I met through internships. They showed me what it meant to pursue law and encouraged me to keep going.”

Overcoming Challenges and Pioneering in Her Field

Ma’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. As a young Hmong woman entering a field traditionally dominated by older white men, she faced her share of skepticism. Reflecting on her early career, she remembers walking into a room of senior attorneys who doubted her abilities based on her age and background. Instead of taking offense, Ma saw these moments as motivation to work even harder. “I knew they saw me as young and inexperienced, so I put in the extra hours, did the research, and showed up fully prepared. When we won cases, I knew it was because I’d matched them skill for skill,” she shares with pride.

In one of her earlier roles, she became the first Hmong American Assistant Attorney General in Wisconsin, an accomplishment that made her the only Hmong attorney to hold such a position at the time. Working on complex civil litigation cases, she represented state agencies such as the Department of Natural Resources and the Department of Transportation. Her work was challenging yet rewarding, as her efforts could impact policy and legislation across Wisconsin and beyond.

Returning to Minnesota: A Commitment to Community

After several years of impactful work in Wisconsin, Ma felt it was time to return to Minnesota and reconnect with her roots. She established her own law firm in Saint Paul in 2008, focusing on personal injury, criminal defense, and family law. Her decision to move back was driven by a desire to support the Hmong community in Minnesota, which has grown to be one of the largest Hmong populations in the U.S.

Although she never explicitly set out to be a “Hmong attorney,” Ma acknowledges the significance of her background. Her ability to speak Hmong has allowed her to connect deeply with her clients and offer services in a language they feel comfortable with. “Having that cultural connection matters,” she notes. “For many of my Hmong clients, being able to speak in Hmong gives them confidence and reassurance, especially when they’re going through difficult cases.”

Balancing Advocacy with Compassion

One of the unique aspects of Ma’s approach to law is her ability to maintain both strength and empathy. As an attorney, she believes in having “thick skin” to handle the demands of the profession. “Law school teaches you to stay focused on the facts and the law, not the emotions,” she explains. She applies this principle to cases where emotions often run high, especially in family law. Whether handling divorce or child custody cases, she gently reminds her clients to focus on the law rather than personal grievances, emphasizing that, “law is about resolving issues, not exacting revenge.”

Her compassionate approach extends to her practice’s culture as well. At her firm, she prioritizes mentoring women and other aspiring legal professionals. Many of her team members are women, and she takes pride in supporting their growth. One of her first paralegals went on to attend law school and now works alongside Ma as an attorney—an achievement Ma considers a proud accomplishment and a testament to the importance of empowering others.

Inspiring the Next Generation

For Ma, success isn’t just about her achievements; it’s about paving the way for future generations. Her advice for young Hmong women and aspiring legal professionals is simple yet profound: “Believe in yourself and your abilities. Find mentors, even if they’re not from your culture, and don’t let self-doubt hold you back.” She encourages young people to embrace challenges as learning opportunities and to surround themselves with those who can offer guidance.

Beyond her professional life, Ma embraces a balanced approach to living. “Life is short, and we’re all on borrowed time,” she says. She emphasizes the importance of self-care, making time for family, and experiencing life beyond work. She often spends her free time traveling, with the goal of visiting a new country each year—a passion that rejuvenates her and brings fresh perspectives to her life.

A Legacy of Resilience and Dedication

Ma Moua’s journey is an inspiring reminder of what it means to lead with resilience, integrity, and dedication. She’s not only a formidable attorney but a beacon of hope and strength for the Hmong community, proving that hard work, determination, and staying true to one’s values can create positive change. Her story continues to inspire young Hmong women and anyone who dreams of making an impact, reminding them that they, too, can overcome challenges and reach their highest potential.

At Hmong Nouveau, we were deeply honored to sit down with Attorney Ma Moua, a true trailblazer who has made an enduring impact on her field and her community. Her journey embodies the resilience and commitment that inspire us, illustrating the transformative power of perseverance and the profound beauty of giving back. Ma Moua’s story reflects the very values that fuel Hmong Nouveau, and we are proud to celebrate her as a remarkable figure who paves the way for future generations.