attystela.com

Hello and welcome to AttyStela.com 👋

My name is Stela Benitez, sometimes known as “Attorney Stela,” “Attorney S,” or just plain “Stela” (yes, with one L, because apparently two would have been too much power).

Now, introductions are always tricky. I debated whether to keep this short and simple, or unleash the full drama of my life story. I even considered outsourcing it to ChatGPT… but no, this one’s all me, 100% human-authored, caffeine-fueled, and probably revised more times than I’d like to admit.

So here goes:

I’m a lawyer by profession, but my journey has been far from ordinary. After earning my BA in Political Science, I dove headfirst into the chaotic juggling act of working full-time, side-hustling part-time, and attending law school full-time. (Sleep? We’re not really good friends) Against the odds and with a lot of coffee, I graduated with my Juris Doctor in the Philippines.

My career has been shaped by an insatiable curiosity and a refusal to stay in one lane. Over the years, I’ve worn many hats (none of them fashionable, sadly, just professional). And now, I’m standing at a pretty exciting crossroads.

Update as of August 2025:

I am expected to graduate from the University of Edinburgh in the United Kingdom with a Master of Laws in Innovation, Technology, and the Law.

So whether you’re here for law, tech, data privacy or just to see how a lawyer attempts humor, welcome. I’m glad you’re here.

Professional Life

My career kicked off in the HR world, where I thrived in the dynamics of hiring, training, and, yes, sometimes the tough decisions of firing. Labor relations. I reveled in the complexities of people — labor relations, shaping a workplace that fosters growth and understanding.

This curiosity and drive to advocate for people’s rights and to protect led me into the realm of data privacy and people’s rights online… navigating the intricate landscapes of the Data Privacy Act and GDPR. Today, as an attorney, I delve into criminal, commercial, and tech law, constantly exploring new fields and challenges.

Where I Stand Now

Currently, I’m wearing different hats as counsel. I am also doing consulting work. Together with some brilliant human beings, we’re on a mission to propel technology forward in the Philippines, particularly in enhancing public service and helping others solve a problem or two. It’s a thrilling ride, blending law, technology, and human resource management to pave the way for innovation.

What I Believe In

At the core of my professional and personal life are two pillars – utmost confidentiality and unwavering integrity. These values guide every decision I make and every action I take — both in life and in my professional endeavors.

Beyond Work

When I’m not immersed in research or keeping myself occupied with things to learn (AI, data privacy, tech and legal developments), you will find me capturing the world through my lens, dabbling in digital design and/or probably experimenting with yet another way to make some kind of healthy dessert. Yes, I’m a bit of a nerd. Not a 100% certified nerd yet, I guess. We will get there. Anyone who is close to me knows that I tend to “rabbit hole” in things that catch my attention. I would like to think that I am an information sponge but that is a self-serving statement, of course.

On Why This Website Came To Be

1. The need to share. I grew up with my grandmother and she practically raised me and sent me to school. We didn’t come from money. However, one of the things my grandmother inculcated in my mind is that education is of paramount importance and that it is one of things, apart from dignity and integrity, that will never be taken away from you.

When I was in high school, we had to pay 600 PHP or around 12 USD school fees every end of the school year to take the finals. I remember there were several times I cried because it was a struggle to even afford it. It was for education. And I knew and still know (because it is still a fact today) that there are a lot of Filipinos who struggle to make ends meet. What more for their legal woes? I managed to make something beautiful out of my life. Hence, number #2 —

2. The need to pay it forward. I created this website in the hope of helping you and other people find the answers you are looking for. I pray that in one way or another, I can shed some light on your cause/causes without you having to pay a hefty sum.

That being said, I accept questions or inquiries here and I try to answer them as much as I can out of public service. I read your questions or inquiries and analyze them based on the given facts. Emphasis on given facts. I go the extra mile of researching about them when need be. This is one of the ways I am paying it forward.

In Summary:

Whether it’s navigating the complexities of law, advocating for technological advancements, or capturing life’s moments through photography (or wrecking havoc in the kitchen), my journey is about continual growth and exploration.

I live by a simple ethos: be passionate, be curious, be genuine, and always act with integrity.

What’s Cooking

In December 2024, I am inspired to initiate a heartfelt journey—a campaign of compassion aimed at supporting the elderly, the orphaned, and the abandoned within our community. Too often, these vulnerable groups are overlooked and left to face hardships alone. It is our collective responsibility to extend a hand of support and remind them that they are valued and cherished.

To make this vision a reality, I am currently setting up convenient donation options on this platform. One of which is here. This will enable us all to contribute easily and make a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most. Your generosity can light up the lives of countless individuals, offering them hope and assistance in their times of need.

I invite you to join me in this noble cause. Together, let’s bring warmth and support to those who have been forgotten, ensuring they receive the care and attention they deserve even in a small way.

P.S. Please provide your email address when you decide to join in so I can send you pictures and videos of the event/s. You are also invited to join in person when you are available. Details will be emailed prior to the event.

Author’s note: (as if everything above is not a long note)

In case you have questions, comments or any violent reactions, please feel free to contact me via the contact form.