Education
Law School: Southwestern University School of Law
College: University of California, San Diego
Major Cases
As a certified family law specialist, I routinely represent mid- to high-net-worth individuals with simple to complex property issues including business valuations, tax issues, characterization of property and support. I also focus on children including high-conflict custody/visitation disputes, move-away actions, paternity, and stepparent adoptions, including contested termination of parental rights. I regularly handle post judgment matters, enforcement of judgments and prenuptials. I will settle a case when possible, but will litigate aggressively when necessary. I believe it is important for clients to be involved and informed so they may make knowledgeable decisions about their lives. See yelman.com for specific case testimonials.
Professional Background
My dedication to family law started during law school, where I interned at Dependency Court Legal Services in Los Angeles. After passing the bar, I was a sole practitioner focusing on family law and bankruptcy. In 1999, I joined Yelman & Associates as the supervising attorney for the firm’s bankruptcy practice, primarily filing Chapter 7 and 13 cases, and practicing family law. In 2005, Yelman & Associates began our exclusive focus on family law. I became a Certified Family Law Specialist in 2008. Since 2005, I have sat as a Family Court settlement judge and as a pro tem since 2009.
Professional Affiliations
As a vigorous advocate, I believe it is necessary to stay abreast of current changes in the law. I am a member of the Association of Certified Family Law Specialists, the San Diego County Bar Association, Family Law Section, the San Diego Family Law Bar Association,and the State Bar’s Family Law Section (Flexcom). I am a past member of the American Bar Association, North County Bar Association, Consumer Attorneys of Los Angeles, and San Diego Bankruptcy Forum. I am committed to the practice of family law; guiding families through what can be an emotional and stressful time in their lives.
Personal Background
I grew up in Poway and still live in North County with my husband of 20 years, our two children and two dogs. We enjoy going to Padres and Chargers games, traveling, looking for antiques and DIY projects.