Elaine Owens is a workers’ compensation attorney in the Farah & Farah Orlando office who brings a strong sense of justice, careful attention to detail, and a deep commitment to advocating for injured workers. Her background includes years of experience on the defense side of workers’ compensation law, giving her valuable insight into how insurance companies evaluate claims and where the system often falls short. Elaine uses that knowledge to help clients navigate the workers’ compensation process with confidence and clarity.
A Goal That Took Time To Fulfill
I have wanted to be an attorney for as long as I can remember. Even as a child, I talked openly about becoming a lawyer and shared that goal with my parents. After finishing my undergraduate degree in criminal justice, I planned to attend law school, but the timing and circumstances of my life led me in a different direction. I chose a path that allowed me to gain experience and perspective before returning to that long-held ambition.
For ten years, I worked in the public sector within local government, focusing on community services and housing development. That work gave me meaningful experience and helped shape how I view service and responsibility, but over time, I realized I was not fulfilled. I had set aside a goal that still mattered deeply to me. Eventually, I decided it was time to return to that goal and pursue law school, even though it meant doing so later than I originally planned.
Law School and Finding My Footing
I attended Barry University School of Law in Orlando during a very demanding period of my life. At the time, I had young children at home, and my husband worked nights as a police officer. Law school was challenging, but each day I showed up, did the work, and made it through.
That experience shaped me in important ways. It taught me resilience, discipline, and how to manage competing responsibilities without losing sight of what mattered. Earning my law degree and passing the bar while raising young children remains one of my proudest accomplishments.
Beginning My Career in Criminal Law
After law school, I began my legal career as a public defender. I represented criminal defendants and spent nearly two years in that role. While the work was meaningful, I realized it was not something I wanted to pursue long-term. The emotional toll and the nature of the cases led me to reconsider where I could best use my skills and energy.
During that time, a colleague who had moved into private practice mentioned an opening for a workers’ compensation associate at her firm. I was unsure what area of law I wanted to practice next, but that opportunity gave me a way to step into a new field. I took the chance, and it ultimately led me to work I genuinely love.
Discovering Workers’ Compensation Law
I began my workers’ compensation career on the defense side, representing insurance companies and employers. Over several years, I gained firsthand experience with how claims are evaluated, how benefits decisions are made, and how the system often prioritizes numbers over people. I learned how insurers approach cases, what strategies they rely on, and where injured workers are most vulnerable.
Although defense work sharpened my legal skills, it also prompted me to reflect on the direction of my career. I became increasingly focused on the people behind the files rather than the outcomes on paper, and I realized that remaining on the defense side was no longer the right fit for me.
Moving Toward Meaningful Client Work
I knew I wanted to advocate for injured workers rather than work against them, and when the opportunity to join Farah & Farah arose, the timing felt right. It was a natural step toward the kind of work I had always hoped to do.
Now, I use my defense background to benefit the clients I represent. I understand how insurance companies think and how they move cases forward, and I use that knowledge to anticipate challenges and advocate more effectively. My goal is to help injured workers navigate the workers’ compensation process with someone who understands both sides of the system.
What I Bring to Every Case
I am highly detail-oriented and thorough in my work. I take pride in not missing important information and in making sure every aspect of a case is carefully reviewed. Advocacy did not come easily to me at first, but over time, I developed confidence in my ability to speak up for my clients and push for fair outcomes. That growth has become one of my greatest strengths as an attorney.
Workers’ compensation moves quickly compared to many other areas of law, and I appreciate the fast-paced nature of the work. Resolving cases efficiently while protecting my clients’ rights allows people to move forward with their lives sooner, which is always the ultimate goal.
At the core of my work is a strong sense of justice and fairness. I have always been inclined to stand with those who need help. Today, I am grateful to use my experience and perspective to guide injured workers through the workers’ compensation process and advocate for outcomes that reflect the care and respect they deserve.
Life Beyond the Law
Outside of work, my time revolves around my family. I spend most of my free time with my children, supporting their interests and finding ways to connect with each of them individually. My son is passionate about basketball, and I enjoy watching him play and spending time with him on the court. My daughter enjoys creative and personal interests, and sharing time around those activities has become one of my favorite ways to connect with her.
I also have two Australian Shepherds and am deeply devoted to them. Whether we are visiting the dog park or going on hikes, spending time outdoors with my dogs is one of the ways I recharge. For fun, I enjoy karaoke, which holds special meaning for me as part of my Filipino heritage. While I may not claim to be a great singer, it is something I genuinely love doing.
