Areas served: Berkeley, CA and surrounding Alameda County
Berkeley's family law landscape reflects the city's progressive values, with many attorneys emphasizing collaborative divorce and mediation alongside traditional litigation. The concentration of practitioners near the Alameda County Superior Court on Martin Luther King Jr. Way provides clients with attorneys experienced in local court procedures and judicial preferences. This directory catalogs family law attorneys across Berkeley, from solo practitioners in the Elmwood and Northside neighborhoods to mid-sized firms downtown, evaluated on their approach to custody arrangements, property division, and alternative dispute resolution.
Meakins Law is a Berkeley-based family law firm founded by attorney Jon Meakins, who brings personal experience with divorce to his practice. The firm specializes in divorce and custody matters for clients in Berkeley, San Francisco, and throughout the Bay Area, offering a collaborative, client-focused approach that prioritizes listening and understanding each family's unique needs. Unlike traditional law firms, Meakins Law operates with a startup mentality—minimal overhead, compassionate attorneys, and a commitment to making the divorce process less adversarial and more human-centered.
“I can't recommend Brook Meakins enough as a divorce attorney. From the start, she was incredibly supportive and reassuring, always providing clear and realistic expectations. During the overwhelming and stressful early stages, Brook made everything much more comforting. She eased my stress and made me feel like I would get through it. Going through a divorce during Covid was tough, but Brook's excellent communication made everything smoother. Her team took on most of the work, lifting a huge burden off my shoulders. If you're looking for a knowledgeable and compassionate divorce attorney, I highly recommend Meakins Law.”
— Mike Macievich, Google Review · 4.8 ★ avg from 18 reviewsThe Geller Firm is a family law practice in Walnut Creek led by attorney Scott Geller, who brings over 20 years of experience representing clients in divorce, child custody, spousal support, and complex property division cases throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. The firm is known for its client-centered approach, offering both collaborative law and litigation services, with a focus on minimizing conflict and protecting children's best interests. Serving Contra Costa, Alameda, and surrounding counties, the practice maintains a 5.0-star rating from 60+ Google reviews.
“I arrived with a sense of doubt about my case and papers served in hand. I walked out of the first meeting with Michael that he was indeed the lawyer that I needed on my side. He treated me like an old friend and within the first ten minutes he gave me the number that ended up being the settlement. No nonsense and it felt like he was on my side throughout the entire process. He is very intelligent and understands family law as well as real estate to a point where I was no longer concerned. He explained everything right from the start and I had the confidence like I had already known what the outcome was going to be in my favor just like he did.”
— Raymond Leader, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 60 reviewsHart Ginney LLP is an Oakland family law firm specializing in high-conflict divorce, litigation abuse, and divorcing someone with a personality disorder. Founded by attorneys Abraham J. Hart and Robyn Ginney, alongside senior attorney Jacqueline Khong, the firm represents clients navigating divorce terrorism, false allegations, financial abuse, and alienation claims. With a 5.0-star rating from 54 reviews, they serve clients throughout the Bay Area who need strategic, crisis-level representation against coercive litigation tactics.
“I had a very positive experience working with this family law firm. I worked specifically with Jackie and AJ, and both were excellent at what they do. They each brought different strengths to the table and worked closely together on my case. What I appreciated most was their collaborative approach — they genuinely listened to my feedback, worked with me as a client, and then provided clear, thoughtful professional guidance in a mediation-focused way. Their teamwork, professionalism, and communication made a difficult process much easier to navigate. Even when I had last-minute questions or needed urgent representation or consultation, they always made time for me and squeezed me in when needed. I felt supported and well-represented throughout and would highly recommend them”
— Ms.G, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 54 reviewsAmin Law is a San Francisco personal injury law firm led by attorney Cyrus Amin, who has recovered over $200 million for clients in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases. The firm specializes in complex litigation involving car accidents, truck collisions, pedestrian injuries, and medical malpractice, with a track record of multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements. Operating 24/7 from their Financial District office, they serve clients throughout the Bay Area on a contingency fee basis—no recovery, no fee.
“I am so grateful for this family law attorney and their team. During one of the hardest moments of my life, they treated me with compassion, patience, and genuine care. I never felt alone or unheard, and they guided me through every step with honesty and strength. Their support meant more to me than words can express. I truly couldn’t have gotten through this without them and highly recommend their services.”
— Joanna Sanchez, Google Review · 4.9 ★ avg from 234 reviewsCastro Law Offices, P.C. is a veteran-owned family law firm in Novato led by attorney Jeremy Castro, serving Marin County and the greater Bay Area. The firm specializes in complex child custody disputes, divorce, adoption, paternity, domestic violence restraining orders, and support modifications. With a bilingual team fluent in Spanish and a reputation for aggressive advocacy (especially for fathers' rights cases), they've earned a 4.9-star rating from 130+ clients across Marin, Sonoma, Napa, and San Francisco counties.
“Jeremy Castro and his wonderful team recently helped my family with a stepparent adoption. We would 100% recommend him to anyone, Jeremy and his team are extremely professional, caring and were quick to respond and reassure us when there were doubts and/or questions. We were very nervous before starting this process but Jeremy and the team gave us a lot of peace and comfort, they took the time to explain and talk us through the whole process. It was an amazing experience. Thank you Castro Law!”
— sonia hernandez, Google Review · 4.9 ★ avg from 131 reviewsKaspar & Lugay, LLP is a family law firm led by Brent Kaspar, a CPA and attorney who brings deep financial expertise to complex divorce cases, and Dana Rueckert, a Certified Family Law Specialist (CFLS). With offices in Corte Madera, Napa, Walnut Creek, and San Diego, they specialize in high net worth divorce, asset division, child custody, and spousal support matters across the Bay Area and San Diego County. Their unique combination of tax, business, and family law experience makes them particularly effective in cases involving complex financial assets.
“I recently had the opportunity to consult with Brent Kasper for 30 minutes regarding my concern of possible divorce, and I am thoroughly impressed. Despite the brief time frame, Brent provided invaluable insights and practical advice that immediately put me at ease. Their depth of knowledge and expertise in family law were evident as Brent listened attentively to my concerns and offered clear explanations of the legal processes involved. Brent was not only professional but also empathetic, understanding and easy to talk to. What stood out during the consultation was his quick response to the information I shared and his knowledge which reassured me and gave me a clearer perspective on how to proceed. I highly recommend Brent Kasper for anyone seeking a divorce lawyer who combines legal acumen with genuine care for their clients. Thank you, Brent Kasper for your exceptional service your approach put me at ease and was more helpful thank you know.”
— Belinda Adams, Google Review · 4.9 ★ avg from 122 reviewsRomanov Law is led by Diana Romanov, a Certified Family Law Specialist licensed in both California and Germany, with a unique background as a former Berlin prosecutor. She specializes in complex divorce cases, international family law, and child custody matters, offering representation in English, German, and Russian. Known for her culturally sensitive approach and transparent communication, Diana serves families throughout the San Francisco Bay Area with a focus on resolving family law matters without financial devastation.
“I want to express my deepest gratitude to Diana for the exceptional support and legal expertise she provided to my family member during a very difficult and drawn-out divorce case that lasted over two years. From the beginning, Diana showed not only professionalism and sharp legal insight, but also genuine compassion and patience, qualities that made a tremendous difference during such a stressful time. She remained committed, detail-oriented, and responsive throughout the entire process. Despite numerous delays and complications, Diana never gave up. Her ability to navigate complex legal issues while keeping our family informed and reassured was truly invaluable. She always had a clear strategy and advocated tirelessly to reach a fair and just outcome. Thanks to her, the case was finally resolved with a result that brought much-needed closure and peace. If you’re looking for someone who will fight for you with integrity, persistence, and empathy, I highly recommend Diana. Thank you again, Diana, for everything you’ve done for our family.”
— KRUTI PATEL, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 41 reviewsThe Law Offices of Robert A. Goodman is a family law practice led by Robert A. Goodman, a Certified Specialist in Family Law by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization. With decades of experience, the firm handles divorce, child custody, support matters, complex property division, and mediation throughout Alameda, Contra Costa, San Francisco, San Mateo, and Solano counties. The practice emphasizes cost-effective resolution through mediation and collaborative law, while providing vigorous courtroom advocacy when necessary. Located in downtown Oakland, the firm serves clients throughout the Bay Area with compassionate, accessible legal representation.
“Carolyn has been a wonderful attorney who I have worked with for a few years now. She has helped my family custody situation immensely, as well as estate planning and she always had very sound legal advice. She was responsive and communicative in all matters. I highly recommend Carolyn or the Law Offices of Robert Goodman to everyone who needs compassionate, effective legal services.”
— Alycia Galdamez, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 33 reviewsSchoenberg Family Law Group is led by Debra R. Schoenberg, a State Bar of California Certified Specialist in Family Law with nearly 40 years of experience. The firm focuses exclusively on high-net-worth divorces, complex custody disputes, and asset division throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. Known for their team approach and commitment to resolving cases amicably when possible, they serve as formidable trial lawyers when litigation becomes necessary.
“Debra is the BEST family law attorney in the country, and Debra's team is the BEST support staff I've experienced in any small business arena. Victor, Arielle, and their operations and finance staff will always make you feel welcome and even gab with you if helpful. Kind, available, supportive, patient, and forgiving to folks in high-stress and emotional situations like Divorce, Child Custody, and more. Debra is arguably the best lawyer in the country. Savvy with a to-the-point approach that doesn't waste time, saves you pain, and is worth every penny. Services come with a premium, but as I'm sure all of you are aware, just like in any other business, "You get what you pay for." They truly are, the best in the business. Debra and her team epitomize J.P. Morgan's, "First Class Business in a First Class Way."”
— Michael Kendall, Google Review · 4.9 ★ avg from 67 reviewsDivorce With Dignity in San Francisco is led by Bronwyn Kay Galloway, a Legal Document Assistant (LDA #2026-0000089) with a Juris Doctorate and over 25 years of legal experience. Specializing in collaborative divorce mediation, uncontested divorce filing, and family law document preparation, Bronwyn helps couples navigate separation peacefully and cost-effectively without stepping foot in court. Located in the historic Flood Building in downtown San Francisco, the practice serves clients throughout the Bay Area who want to dissolve their marriage with respect, transparency, and minimal conflict.
“I came across Bron with Divorce with Dignity- San Francisco when I was outraged by the prices divorce attorneys were charging. At first, I was skeptical because it claimed to be a holistic and affordable option to obtaining a divorce without the court making the decisions, but my apprehension was quickly alleviated when I met Bron! She was professional and compassionate throughout the entire process, going out of her way to be available to both of us. It was by far the best decision I could have made under such difficult circumstances. Thank you, Bron!”
— Julie, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 30 reviewsThe Law Office of Peter Tuann is run by Attorney Peter Tuann, who brings over 33 years of family law experience serving San Ramon, Sunnyvale, and the greater Bay Area. The firm specializes in divorce, child custody, spousal support, property division, and post-divorce modifications, with a focus on clear communication and affordable representation. Known for an informal, educational approach, Peter Tuann helps clients navigate emotionally challenging family law matters with compassion and practical solutions. The practice serves Alameda, Contra Costa, and Santa Clara Counties, with offices in San Ramon and Sunnyvale.
Law Offices of Gerard A. Falzone is run by Gerard A. Falzone, a family law attorney with over 30 years of experience serving the San Francisco Bay Area. His practice now exclusively focuses on resolving divorce and family law matters through mediation, collaborative agreements, and consulting—no longer handling contested court litigation. He serves clients throughout Alameda, Marin, San Francisco, Contra Costa, Solano, and San Mateo counties from offices in Alameda and San Rafael, CA.
“I was fortunate to discover the Law Offices of Mr. Gerard Falzone. Working with him for over 6 months, I found his professional services, expert counsel, advice and especially his patience to be exceptional. Being a client located outside the USA posed certain challenges, all of which Mr. Falzone contended with in a highly professional and efficient manner. There is absolutely no possibility that I could have navigated the legal complexities and documentation necessary to successfully conclude this case on my own. Mr. Falzone's non-judgemental professionalism and legal expertise was precisely what I was seeking and he delivered exactly to my required needs. I highly recommend the services of Gerard Falzone for Divorce and Family Law.”
— Craig Smith, Google Review · 4.9 ★ avg from 32 reviewsModern Family Law Oakland is led by Managing Attorney Lulu Tseng and a team of experienced family law attorneys specializing in divorce, child custody, child support, and spousal support matters. The firm uses a technology-driven approach to reduce conflict and legal costs, offering clients in Oakland, Alameda County, and Contra Costa County compassionate guidance and practical strategy. Available 24/7, the team focuses on helping families navigate transitions with clarity and confidence.
“I had the opportunity to work with Sarah Bournar on my family law matter, and I truly appreciated her guidance throughout the process. She is compassionate, attentive, and takes the time to genuinely listen to her clients’ concerns. What I valued most is that she is honest and straightforward about your legal position. She does not sugarcoat the realities of your case, which is incredibly important when making informed decisions. Her communication was clear, and she made sure I understood my options at each stage. Overall, she cares about her clients and approaches her work with professionalism and integrity. I am grateful for her support during a challenging time.”
— nizzlem 876, Google Review · 4.7 ★ avg from 306 reviewsLurkis, Joyce & Del Bove, LLP is a boutique family law firm in San Francisco led by Clifton J. Lurkis (Certified Family Law Specialist since 2009) and Sean Patrick Joyce (20+ years experience). They specialize in high-conflict divorce, complex custody arrangements, domestic violence restraining orders, and prenuptial agreements throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. With a 4.8-star rating and restricted caseload to ensure personalized attention, they're known for combining legal skill with compassionate, ethical representation during emotionally challenging family transitions.
“I highly recommend Sean to anyone seeking an exceptional family law attorney. I am incredibly grateful a good friend referred me to him during a difficult time. I've been working with Sean for over a year on my domestic violence restraining order and impending divorce. He is competent, caring, and thorough, and has truly been a lifesaver as I've navigated the family court system. Sean is very responsive, always replying to my emails immediately and making time to speak with me whenever I have questions. He has patiently explained the legal process and prepared me for multiple hearings and trial, with his confidence and expertise putting me at ease during stressful periods. Beyond his expert legal advice, he has also guided me on financial matters, my living situation, and even how to manage communications with my ex. I feel that he prioritizes my case and genuinely cares about his clients. While I wouldn't wish my situation on anyone, if you ever find yourself in need of assistance with family court matters, I highly recommend reaching out to Sean.”
— Jay, Google Review · 4.8 ★ avg from 38 reviewsFenchel Family Law is a San Francisco-based family law practice led by attorney Stephanie Fenchel, who brings expertise in divorce, child custody, spousal support, and domestic partnerships. The firm is known for its empathetic, client-centered approach and strategic advocacy tailored to each family's unique situation. Serving clients throughout the Bay Area, Fenchel Family Law offers flexible 24/7 availability to support families during challenging transitions.
“From my first interaction with Valerie Fenchel, I was immediately impressed by her clarity, compassion, and depth of knowledge in family law. She communicates complex matters in a calm, understandable way while showing genuine care for the people she serves. Her thoughtful approach and professionalism left me with strong confidence in her expertise and dedication.”
— Natashia Butler, Google Review · 4.7 ★ avg from 60 reviewsBarry Schneider, Esq. is a San Francisco employment law attorney specializing in wrongful termination, workplace discrimination, sexual harassment, and wage/hour disputes. With over 30 years of experience representing employees against corporations, Barry provides personalized legal counsel from his downtown San Francisco office. He handles cases throughout the Bay Area on a contingency fee basis, meaning clients pay nothing unless they win.
East Bay Family Law & Mediation PC is led by Daniel, a family law attorney practicing exclusively in this field since 2007 throughout the Bay Area. The firm specializes in both mediation and litigation for divorce, child custody, spousal support, and complex property division, with a settlement-oriented approach designed to resolve cases efficiently. Serving Dublin, CA and surrounding Bay Area counties, they offer full representation, mediation services, and cost-saving limited scope options.
620 Jones is a multi-level upscale lounge and event venue in San Francisco's Tenderloin district, featuring a restaurant, cocktail bar, and rooftop terrace. Known for their craft cocktails, elevated American cuisine, weekend brunch, and private event hosting, they blend modern sophistication with approachable hospitality. Holding a 4.3-star rating from over 1,100 Google reviews, 620 Jones serves SF locals and visitors seeking a refined night out or memorable event experience.
“Came here for a work holiday party. The staff said they were an easy place to work with. Friendly bartenders. Other staff were great at clearing tables and bringing out rounds of food quickly. Beef bites were amazing. The samosas were also really good. Sazerac was made well. They have a good bourbon selection from redemption to bib and Tucker to baby Jane.”
— E Lee, Google Review · 4.3 ★ avg from 1148 reviewsBay Area Family Law Center is led by Ethan M. Weisinger and Indy Colbath, both Certified Family Law Specialists by the California State Bar—a distinction held by fewer than 10% of family law attorneys. The firm specializes in divorce, child custody, domestic violence restraining orders, spousal support, and same-sex marriage dissolution, with affiliations to Lambda Legal and the National Center for Lesbian Rights. Located in Walnut Creek, they serve clients throughout Contra Costa County with a litigation-first approach tailored to complex family law matters, while also excelling at mediation when mutually agreed settlement is possible.
Denise's Family Law & Divorce Document Assistance is a legal document preparation service in Martinez, CA, run by Denise, a Registered Legal Document Assistant (LDA No. 133) with 30 years of experience in family court procedures. The practice specializes in divorce paperwork, custody agreements, restraining orders, and all family law-related documents for uncontested cases in Contra Costa, Solano, and Alameda Counties. Located steps from the Contra Costa County Courthouse, Denise provides accurate, affordable document preparation without the cost of an attorney for those handling their own cases.
“Denise's Family Law & Divorce Document Assistance Truly deserves more than 5 stars..They provide outstanding service. I had an excellent experience and cannot say enough great things. Denise and Gina are an amazing mother and daughter team who truly care about helping people through difficult family law situations. Denise is extremely knowledgeable, professional and experienced with family law and document preparation. She takes the time to explain everything clearly and makes sure every document is handled correctly and efficiently. Gina is equally wonderful, friendly, organized, and incredibly helpful throughout the entire process. She is always welcoming and makes you feel comfortable from the moment you walk in. Together they create a supportive, respectful and professional environment that makes a stressful situation much easier to manage. What also stands out is their honesty, reliability, and affordable prices. It is rare to find such high- quality service combined with kindness, integrity and genuine care for their clients. Many lawyers wanted a $10,000 retainer fees. My case was extremely challenging and stressful. Denise stayed focused and guided me every step of the way. Denise you were God sent. If you need help with family law documents or divorce/ annulment document assistance, I highly recommend the best.... DENISE'S FAMILY LAW & DIVORCE DOCUMENT ASSISTANCE. Their professionalism, compassion, efficiency, and commitment to helping people truly make them stand out. Martin”
— Martín Mora, Google Review · 4.3 ★ avg from 48 reviewsFord Family Law, P.C. is led by attorney Renée Ford, a certified family law specialist with over 20 years of experience serving clients throughout Alameda County. The firm specializes in divorce, child custody, child support, spousal support, domestic violence restraining orders, and property division, with a focus on mediation and collaborative law approaches. Renée Ford and her team serve Oakland, Berkeley, Alameda, and surrounding East Bay communities with personalized, solution-focused legal representation.
“Ford Family Law helped me navigate a very complicated divorce involving a family business, 3 children , and multiple attorneys. They were professional and supportive all the way through and had my trust from the beginning. Maintaining a sense of humor is not easy, but they help you see the big picture. I didn't start my divorce with Ford, but sure wish i did. I would highly recommend them in all cases or personal situations.”
— Larry Alamillo, Google Review · 4.8 ★ avg from 6 reviewsKing Collaborative Law and Mediation, PC is run by Camille King, a California licensed attorney since 2001 who specializes in mediation and collaborative divorce. After years of litigating family law cases, Camille trained in mediation (2010) and collaborative practice (2011) to help couples dissolve marriages and domestic partnerships outside of court. The practice serves clients in Albany, CA and the East Bay with mediated divorce, collaborative divorce, and premarital/cohabitation agreements—all designed to empower clients through constructive dialogue and avoid the adversarial court process.
“Camille is a fantastic family law attorney who played a key role in helping me transition from a complicated postnup to a divorce settlement. In the course of 2 years, Camille provided me thorough guidance and invaluable insights about my legal rights, which restored my confidence and saved me from making bad decisions. Camille was great at listening to my needs and advising me on how to best proceed to meet my goals. Camille also offered me moral support beyond what I could ever expect from an attorney. I am very grateful for all the support she provided me and highly recommend her to anyone seeking a compassionate and highly experienced family attorney.”
— Helena Laranetto, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 4 reviewsBloom Family Law is a collaborative family law firm in Oakland, CA led by Katie Padilla, a Certified Family Law Specialist by the State Bar of California. The firm uniquely blends legal representation with emotional support through an integrated team of attorneys and certified divorce coaches, offering innovative legal-coaching packages, intimate divorce retreats, and the signature Soul Compass Divorce Program. With a 5-star Google rating, Bloom serves families throughout the East Bay navigating divorce, custody, prenuptial agreements, and co-parenting disputes with a holistic approach that honors both legal strategy and personal transformation.
“I worked with Katie Padilla during my premarital agreement in 2023. Katie was professional, warm, knowledgeable, and confident from start to end of the agreement proposal. She reviewed all my concerns, explained my rights, and worked with the other party to help us reach an agreement that I was satisfied with before marriage. I felt well represented and in great hands during the whole process. I highly recommend Katie Padilla for skilled legal representation during your family law needs.”
— Nicholas Silva, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 4 reviewsLaw Office of Sylvia Woods is a family law mediation practice in Oakland, CA, led by attorney Sylvia Woods, who specializes in divorce mediation, collaborative divorce, and family law representation. With a focus on non-adversarial conflict resolution, Sylvia helps couples navigate separation and divorce through mediation rather than litigation, preserving relationships and reducing costs. She serves Oakland, San Francisco, San Leandro, Orinda, and the broader East Bay Area with a client-centered, dignified approach to family transitions.
“When Sylvia Woods walks into the courtroom, the opposing attorneys tend to look like they've seen a ghost. Sylvia is down-to-earth, down-to-business, and bulldog tough when it comes to fighting for your parental rights. Sylvia has the extensive experience, reputation, and bedside manner of which the perfect family law attorney is comprised. Sylvia's advice has lead to a better relationship with my child, myself, and the mother of my child. Sylvia's the equalizer.”
— Lit Fuse Cyclery Lit Fuse Cyclery, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 5 reviewsThe Geller Firm is the top-ranked family law provider in the Berkeley area with a Lantern Score of 83.88/100 and 5-star rating across 60 reviews. They specialize in divorce, custody disputes, and amicable settlements, and are particularly known for helping divorcing couples and families seeking collaborative resolutions.
Hart Ginney LLP (Lantern Score: 83.68/100) and Kaspar & Lugay, LLP (Lantern Score: 83.19/100) both specialize in high-conflict divorces. Hart Ginney LLP also handles abuse cases and asset protection for primary earners, while Kaspar & Lugay, LLP focuses on high-net-worth divorces and complex asset division across multiple counties.
Castro Law Offices, P.C. (Lantern Score: 83.25/100, 4.9★ with 131 reviews) is a veteran-owned firm in Novato that specifically serves bilingual Spanish-speaking families and offers comprehensive representation in divorce, custody, adoption, and domestic violence matters.
Divorce with Dignity (Lantern Score: 82.15/100, 5★ with 30 reviews) leads this category, specializing in mediation-based solutions that prioritize cost-effectiveness and respectful resolution. Additionally, Robert A. Goodman Law Offices (Lantern Score: 82.45/100, 5★) and Schoenberg Family Law Group (Lantern Score: 82.45/100, 4.9★) both emphasize mediation-based approaches.
Romanov Law (Lantern Score: 83.05/100, 5★ with 41 reviews) is led by Diana Romanov, a certified Family Law Specialist licensed in California and Germany, and specializes in serving immigrant families, Russian-speaking clients, German-speaking clients, and international family law matters.
Meakins Law (Lantern Score: 77.45/100, 4.8★ with 18 reviews) is a Berkeley-based family law firm specializing in divorce, custody, estate planning, and mediation services for clients seeking personalized, amicable legal representation.