Find a Professional

Biographical Info

As a Certified Family Law Specialist (CFLS), a distinction earned from the State Bar of California, I am proud to be an empathetic advocate for families across San Diego.

My legal experience includes representing clients in challenging, high-conflict family law matters, including difficult child custody disputes and complex community property division as well as serving as a collaborative divorce practitioner, assisting divorcing parties to reach a creative settlement that meets the needs of the family. In addition, my experience in the military allows me to understand the unique situations and complications military members face when it comes to various family law issues that are specific to service members.

In addition to my law degree, I earned a Master of Laws Degree (LL.M.) in taxation. Prior to becoming an attorney, I worked as a tax consultant with Big Four accounting firm Ernst & Young. My background helps me to not only understand and assist clients with their tax and financial planning needs, but also gives me the ability to ensure their assets are adequately protected.

Education:

1994, B.A., Spanish and International Relations, Stanford University

2002, J.D., University of San Diego School of Law

2011, LL.M., Taxation, University of San Diego School of Law

Bar Admission / Professional Licensing:

2011, Certified Family Law Specialist – California State Bar

2002, Admitted to California State Bar

Work Experience:

Active duty military, United States Marine Corps, 1994-1999

Colonel in the United States Marine Corps Reserves, 1999-2022

Tax consultant, Ernst & Young, 2000-2001

Associate Attorney, Higgs Fletcher & Mack, 2006-2011

Founding attorney, Schaffer Family Law Group, 2011-present

Deputy Director, Reserve Legal Support, Headquarters Marine Corps, Judge Advocate Division, October 1, 2021 – present