Susan M. Hutchison obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree from UCSB, Master's degree from CA State Northridge, and her Juris Doctorate degree in 2001. While in law school, she completed two internships with the Office of the District Attorney, received American Jurisprudence awards in Criminal Law, Civil Procedure, Advanced Legal Writing, honors in Moot Court and Alternative Dispute Resolutions, and graduated with honors.

Ms. Hutchison's prior litigation experience includes insurance subrogation in maritime and transportation law, and insurance defense in civil litigation and employment law. Prior to law school, she was a social worker for the County of Ventura. Ms. Hutchison is licensed to practice in California and is a member in good standing of the California State Bar Association.