A life-long resident of the South Shore, Joanne was raised in Stoughton. She earned a B.A. degree from the University of Massachusetts. After teaching in Taunton for many years, she returned to school, earning a law degree from Boston College. Joanne is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) and its Massachusetts affiliate.
Before serving the South Shore, Joanne practiced law with a nationally recognized Boston law firm. She has served as a member of the boards of directors for Hanover Chamber of Commerce and for South Shore Habitat for Humanity. Joanne also donates her legal services to various charitable organizations.