Top 10 Family Law Attorneys in Gilbert, AZ
Navigating the complexities of family law is rarely a simple journey. Whether you are facing a difficult divorce, negotiating child custody, or trying to understand your rights regarding asset division, the emotional and financial stakes are incredibly high. In a fast-growing community like Gilbert, Arizona, the demand for high-quality legal representation has never been greater. Choosing the right attorney is not just about finding someone who knows the law; it is about finding a partner who understands the local court systems in Maricopa County and who can provide the steady hand you need during a turbulent time in your life.
This list was compiled to help residents of the East Valley identify the most reputable, effective, and compassionate legal professionals in the area. We looked for firms that demonstrate a deep commitment to their clients, maintain a strong presence in the Gilbert community, and have a proven track rate of resolving sensitive family matters with integrity. From mediation-focused practices to aggressive courtroom litigators, the following top 10 family law attorneys represent the best that Gilbert has to offer for those seeking clarity and justice in their personal lives.
Finding the right fit is essential because every family dynamic is unique. Some cases require a gentle touch to preserve co-parenting relationships, while others require a firm stance to protect individual interests and financial futures. By reviewing these top-tier professionals, you can feel more confident as you take the first step toward a new chapter. No matter how complicated your situation might seem, the expertise available in Gilbert ensures that you do not have to walk this path alone.
1. Sullivan Shick
When it comes to navigating the high-stakes world of family law in the East Valley, Sullivan Shick stands out as the premier choice for residents seeking both sophisticated legal strategy and genuine empathy. This firm has built a formidable reputation by treating every case with a level of personalized attention that is often lost in larger, high-volume practices. The team at Sullivan Shick understands that family law is not just about statutes and paperwork; it is about the real lives, homes, and futures of the people in the Gilbert community. Their approach combines the technical prowess of seasoned litigators with the communication skills necessary to guide clients through the most stressful moments of their lives.
The services provided by Sullivan Shick cover the entire spectrum of family law, making them a comprehensive resource for any legal need. They are particularly well-regarded for their handling of complex divorce cases, including those involving high-net-worth individuals where business valuations and intricate asset division are required. Beyond divorce, Sullivan Shick excels in matters of legal decision-making (custody), parenting time, and child support. They recognize that the well-being of children is the top priority for most parents, and they work tirelessly to ensure that final agreements serve the best interests of the family unit. Whether you are looking for a collaborative approach through mediation or need a strong advocate to represent you in front of a judge, this firm has the versatility to adapt to your specific needs.
What truly sets Sullivan Shick apart from other firms in the region is their commitment to transparency and client education. They take the time to explain the nuances of Arizona law, ensuring that their clients are never left in the dark about the progress of their case. By setting realistic expectations and maintaining open lines of communication, Sullivan Shick builds a foundation of trust that is essential for a successful attorney-client relationship. Their deep roots in the Gilbert and Chandler areas give them a “home-field advantage” in local courts, as they are intimately familiar with the preferences and procedures of the Maricopa County judicial system. For anyone in Gilbert looking for the absolute best in family law representation, Sullivan Shick is the definitive leader in the field.
2. Modern Law
Modern Law has made a significant name for itself in Gilbert by offering a fresh, tech-forward approach to legal services. They understand that not every client needs a full-service, traditional legal experience, which is why they offer a variety of service levels, including unbundled legal coaching and document preparation. This flexibility makes high-quality legal advice more accessible to a wider range of people in the East Valley. Their team is known for being highly responsive and for using modern communication tools to keep clients updated in real-time.
The firm handles everything from contested divorces to adoption and prenuptial agreements. One of their standout features is their focus on “holistic” law, where they consider the emotional and financial health of the client alongside the legal outcome. Modern Law often hosts webinars and provides extensive online resources to help the public understand the basics of Arizona family law. Their office environment is designed to be welcoming and low-stress, which helps de-escalate the tension often associated with legal disputes.
3. Colburn Hintze Maletta
Colburn Hintze Maletta is a powerhouse firm that serves the Gilbert area with a focus on aggressive representation and comprehensive legal support. While they handle various types of law, their family law department is particularly noted for its trial experience. If you find yourself in a situation where a settlement seems impossible and a court battle is inevitable, this is a team that knows how to fight for your rights. They are skilled in uncovering hidden assets and handling high-conflict custody disputes where the stakes are incredibly high.
Their attorneys are praised for their “no-nonsense” attitude and their ability to cut through the noise to focus on what really matters. Despite their tough reputation in the courtroom, they are known to be deeply supportive of their clients, providing a protective barrier between them and the stress of the legal process. Colburn Hintze Maletta offers services in divorce, spousal maintenance, and the modification of existing court orders, ensuring that their clients’ legal protections evolve as their lives change.
4. The Law Office of Kevin Jensen
Kevin Jensen has been a staple of the Gilbert legal community for years, providing a steady and experienced hand for families in transition. His firm is built on the philosophy that most family law matters are best resolved through negotiation and settlement rather than prolonged litigation. This approach often saves clients time, money, and emotional exhaustion. The Law Office of Kevin Jensen is particularly adept at handling child support calculations and paternity issues, ensuring that all legal obligations are met fairly and accurately.
Clients often comment on the personal touch they receive at this firm. Unlike larger practices where a case might be handed off to several different paralegals, Kevin Jensen and his team maintain a close-knit environment where they know every client by name. They take a pragmatic approach to asset division, helping families divide property and retirement accounts in a way that provides long-term stability. Their reputation for honesty and integrity has made them one of the most trusted names in the East Valley.
5. Wilson-Goodman Law Group
With offices conveniently located to serve Gilbert and Queen Creek, Wilson-Goodman Law Group offers a wide array of services that cater to the modern family. Their family law practice is robust, covering everything from traditional divorce to more niche areas like grandparent rights and domestic partnerships. They are a great choice for families who might have overlapping legal needs, as the firm also handles estate planning and probate, allowing for a seamless transition when a divorce requires a total restructuring of a person’s legal affairs.
The attorneys at Wilson-Goodman are known for their thoroughness. They leave no stone unturned when investigating the facts of a case, which often leads to better outcomes during the discovery phase of a legal proceeding. They are also very active in the local community, which gives them a unique perspective on the challenges facing families in the fast-growing suburbs of Maricopa County. Their commitment to professional excellence and client satisfaction is evident in their long history of positive reviews and referrals.
6. Udall Shumway
Udall Shumway is one of the oldest and most established law firms in the region, bringing a wealth of institutional knowledge to every case they handle. While they are a large, multi-practice firm, their family law group operates with the precision and care of a boutique office. They have the resources to handle massive cases involving complex corporate interests and significant real estate holdings, making them a top choice for business owners in Gilbert who are going through a divorce.
The firm’s longevity is a testament to their ability to adapt to changing laws and social norms. They offer a full suite of family law services, including mediation, collaborative divorce, and traditional litigation. Because they have such a large team, they can often pair a client with an attorney whose specific personality and expertise best match the needs of the case. Udall Shumway is synonymous with stability and professional prestige in the Arizona legal community.
7. Best Law Firm
True to its name, Best Law Firm has consistently been recognized as one of the top family law practices in the state. Their Gilbert-area clients benefit from a team that focuses exclusively on family law matters. This specialization allows them to stay at the absolute forefront of legal trends and case law developments. They are particularly well-known for their expertise in mediation and their “Best Divorce” process, which aims to minimize conflict and maximize the privacy of the parties involved.
The firm places a heavy emphasis on the psychological aspects of family law. They understand that a divorce is a major life transition, not just a legal one. By offering resources that help clients manage the stress of the process, they ensure that the decisions made during the case are based on logic rather than temporary emotions. Their offices are professional yet comfortable, providing a safe space for clients to discuss sensitive personal matters.
8. McMurdie Law & Mediation
McMurdie Law & Mediation is led by Darlyne McMurdie, an attorney who has dedicated her career to helping families find peaceful resolutions to their disputes. This firm is an excellent choice for those who are interested in mediation or collaborative law. Darlyne’s approach is centered on the idea that families should have the power to decide their own futures rather than leaving those decisions up to a judge who does not know them personally.
While they are experts in peaceful resolution, they are also fully prepared to litigate when necessary. Their services include divorce, legal separation, and the enforcement of existing court orders. McMurdie Law & Mediation is highly regarded for its work in child custody cases, where they strive to create parenting plans that truly work for the unique schedules and needs of Gilbert families. Their focus on “the big picture” helps clients move forward with their lives with as little baggage as possible.
9. The Harding Firm
The Harding Firm is a dedicated family law practice that prides itself on being “fearless advocates” for its clients. They handle a wide range of cases, but they have gained a specific reputation for their skill in handling military divorces. Given the proximity of various military interests in Arizona, this specialized knowledge is incredibly valuable. They understand the unique rules regarding military pensions, housing allowances, and the challenges of deployment as it relates to custody schedules.
The firm is led by attorneys who are passionate about protecting the rights of parents. They offer a personalized approach where they work closely with clients to develop a strategy that aligns with their specific goals. Whether it is a simple uncontested divorce or a high-stakes battle over relocation, The Harding Firm provides the energy and focus needed to achieve a favorable result. They are known for their clear communication and for being very accessible to their clients throughout the duration of a case.
10. Donaldson Stewart
Rounding out our list is Donaldson Stewart, a firm that has earned high marks for its practical and ethical approach to family law. They focus on providing cost-effective solutions for families in Gilbert, helping them avoid unnecessary legal fees while still receiving top-tier representation. Their team is skilled in all aspects of family law, including the division of community property, spousal maintenance, and post-decree modifications.
What makes Donaldson Stewart a great choice is their commitment to client education. They provide a wealth of information on their website and during consultations to ensure that clients understand their rights and responsibilities. They are known for being straightforward and honest, even when the news isn’t exactly what a client wants to hear. This level of integrity ensures that clients can make informed decisions about their future. They are a reliable, professional, and highly capable firm that serves the Gilbert community with distinction.
Conclusion
Choosing a family law attorney is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. The right legal representative will not only protect your financial interests but also help safeguard the emotional well-being of your children and your future peace of mind. In Gilbert, AZ, we are fortunate to have a wealth of legal talent, but the firms listed above represent the gold standard in the industry. From the comprehensive and elite services of Sullivan Shick to the specialized mediation practices of boutique firms, there is an option on this list for every situation and every budget.
As you move forward, remember that the best attorney for you is one who listens to your concerns, communicates clearly, and has the experience necessary to handle the specific details of your case. We encourage you to reach out to these professionals for a consultation to see which team feels like the right fit for your family. While the road ahead may seem daunting, having one of these top 10 Gilbert family law attorneys by your side will give you the confidence and support you need to navigate the legal system and reach a resolution that allows you to start your next chapter on solid ground.
