EDUCATION

Before entering the legal profession, she built a career in science and education. An alumna of Stephen F. Austin State University, she worked as a toxicology technologist, operating sophisticated laboratory instrumentation and analyzing drug metabolites in support of scientific testing. She spent years as a middle and high school science teacher, where she developed the ability to communicate complex concepts in a clear, approachable manner, build trust with diverse audiences, and remain calm under pressure. She went on to earn her Juris Doctor from South Texas College of Law Houston in 2022, where she was an active, leading member of several societies. She was admitted to the State Bar of Texas in 2022. While in law school, she was honored with the CALI Excellence for the Future Award in Insurance Law Seminar. Ashley is also a certified mediator in the state of Texas, having earned her certification in 2020.

BACKGROUND

With numerous years of experience in insurance defense litigation, Ashley represents clients in federal Defense Base Act matters with a practical, analytical, and client-focused approach. Her practice is grounded in thorough preparation, strategic advocacy, and a commitment to achieving efficient, effective results for clients. Her track record includes take-nothing awards to claimants and total victories for her clients at trial, as well as numerous successful mediations resulting in successfully settled claims. 

Prior to focusing on insurance defense, she gained valuable experience in probate and estate planning, providing individuals and families with thoughtful guidance through complex legal matters. This breadth of experience has strengthened her ability to navigate diverse legal issues while tailoring her approach to each client's unique needs. While in law school, she interned at the Harris County Attorney's Office in their environmental department and worked as a research assistant for various professors. This experience further strengthened her analytical abilities, legal writing, and attention to detail.  The majority of her practice was spent at a prominent Houston-based firm defending claims arising under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act and Defense Base Act, which she continues to practice at Samuelsen, Gonzalez, Valenzuela & Brown since joining in 2026.

Clients appreciate her responsiveness, clear communication, perceptive attention to detail, and practical guidance throughout the litigation process. She believes that effective advocacy extends beyond the courtroom—it also means ensuring clients understand their options, feel heard, and have confidence in the strategy guiding their case. Her background in science, education, and law allows her to analyze technical issues with precision while translating complex legal and factual matters into understandable, actionable advice.

Ashley is a member of MotherEsquire,  whose mission is to achieve gender equity in the legal profession, as well as the Houston Bar Association. She is licensed to practice in the state of Texas.