Our San Diego Family Law Attorneys
The attorneys at Smith Family Law, APC represent San Diego families through some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Since 2017, our team has guided clients through divorce, custody, support, and marital agreement matters with honest counsel and genuine care. We believe you deserve a lawyer who listens, explains your options clearly, and fights for the outcome that protects your future.
A Team You Can Trust
Every case is different, and so is every client. Our attorneys take the time to understand your goals before recommending a path forward, whether that means negotiating an amicable resolution or advocating for you in the courtroom. With over 50 years of combined family law experience and a California Certified Family Law Specialist on our team, we bring both depth and dedication to your case.
Dedicated to Family Law
Family law is all we do. Our attorneys focus their practice on:
- Divorce and legal separation
- Child custody and visitation
- Child and spousal support
- Property and asset division
- Domestic violence and restraining orders
- Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
- Mediation and uncontested divorce
Meet Our Attorneys
Stephen Smith, Managing Partner
As Managing Partner, Stephen Smith leads the Smith Family Law team and guides clients through divorce, custody, and support matters with the straightforward, results-focused counsel the firm is known for. Read Stephen’s full bio.
Heather Catron, Partner
Heather Catron is a Partner at Smith Family Law who advocates for clients across divorce, custody, and support cases. Clients consistently praise her responsiveness and the steady guidance she provides through difficult times. Read Heather’s full bio.
Caroline Plemmons, Senior Associate Attorney
Caroline Plemmons is a Senior Associate Attorney and a California Certified Family Law Specialist, a credential held by only a small percentage of family law attorneys in the state. She brings specialized knowledge to the most complex family law matters. Read Caroline’s full bio.
Vanessa Lopez-Pastenes, Associate Attorney
Vanessa Lopez-Pastenes is an Associate Attorney who represents clients in divorce, custody, and support matters. Clients highlight her quick, honest communication and the care she brings to every case. Read Vanessa’s full bio.
Meet the Rest of Our Team
Behind every attorney is a team that keeps your case moving. Our support staff work directly with clients to answer questions, prepare documents, and provide the responsive service our clients count on.
Rekedra Franklin, Paralegal
Rekedra Franklin supports our attorneys and clients as a paralegal, and is frequently recognized in client reviews for her quick, thorough communication. Learn more.
Talia Reyes
Talia Reyes is a valued member of the Smith Family Law support team. Learn more.
Sydney Spears
Sydney Spears is a valued member of the Smith Family Law support team. Learn more.
What Our Clients Say
“The attorneys are sharp, supportive, and decently priced.”
“We are fortunate to have engaged Stephen from the outset.”
Smith Family Law holds a 4.7-star rating across 45 Google reviews.
On This Page
Still have questions? Call (619) 431-3131 or complete the form below to schedule a free 30-minute phone consultation.
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Why Smith Family Law?
FREE PHONE CONSULTATION. Your first conversation with our team costs nothing, and you can meet with us from anywhere in San Diego County.
VETERAN-OWNED, SERVING SAN DIEGO SINCE 2017. Smith Family Law, APC is a veteran-owned firm that has focused on California family law from our downtown San Diego office since 2017
MORE THAN 50 YEARS OF COMBINED EXPERIENCE. Our attorneys bring more than 50 years of combined family law experience to every case we handle.
A CERTIFIED FAMILY LAW SPECIALIST ON THE TEAM. Senior Associate Attorney Caroline Plemmons is a Certified Family Law Specialist, certified by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization.