Aletia Haynes Timmons
What makes Aletia Wildly Capable?
“Aletia has created a legacy... not just with her position, but in the way she loves and cares for her family. She’s so real. It’s wonderful knowing someone like her.”
What makes you feel proud?
I am proud of the great humans my children are. I am proud that I have the opportunity to touch the people I serve and the community, state, and country I love. I also think I do a great job of managing work, home, family, and community – insisting on time for myself, setting boundaries, and being true to myself in all of that.
What keeps you up at night?
The growing climate of hate and intolerance for the beauty of all people and cultures.
Who is the biggest influence in your life? Why?
My parents who worked hard, were honest, cared about others, and gave me their unwavering confidence. Their confidence and example make me fearless.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Rest, but never give up.
What’s been the biggest obstacle in your life so far?
Pressing past limits people tried to set for me. I grew up one of five kids raised by a single mom, and I am used to people who underestimate my ability.
When I went to college and told my advisor I wanted to go to law school, he said, “You’re probably not going to do that.” But I had already learned to hear what other people say without taking it to heart, so I studied hard, got good grades, and did well on the LSATs. I got into the University of Oklahoma’s law school for litigation and between my second and third years, I got pregnant. I was told I could not litigate and have kids, but I thought, “Why not?” I set a plan and executed it. Next thing you know, I am a litigator and a parent. When I decided to run for judge, I was told it was highly unlikely I would win. I was running against a well-known man who came from a family of politicians, but I spent almost every spare moment canvassing the neighborhood and talking with people. I won that election.
I am just not afraid of failure. When I lose cases or go through hardships, I look back and see what I could do better. If you’re not afraid of learning from things, you will grow your resilience and you will get through anything.
