About Debra R. Schoenberg

More than thirty years ago, she established her own firm, which has vast experience and expertise in the highly sensitive and complex practice of family law, and Ms. Schoenberg has established a professional reputation for thoroughness, strategic thinking, keen attention to detail, loyalty, and dedication to client service.

Today Ms. Schoenberg handles cases that range from complex financial issues and extensive marital estates, to high-conflict custody matters. Adept at negotiating resolutions as well as aggressively pursuing litigated outcomes, she also handles straightforward family law cases, pre- and post-marital agreements, and marital settlements. Ms. Schoenberg has demonstrated a lifetime commitment to fairness and equity, and because of her vast experience she is able to capture the perfect balance of compassionate sensitivity, and the aggressive assertion of a client’s rights.

Long recognized as a leading family law attorney, Debra Schoenberg is a frequent lecturer in family law. In recognition of her work she was named a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and a Board Certified Family Law Trial Specialist by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. She is also a Certified Family Law Specialist by the State of California Board of Legal Specialization. As the result of an extensive and confidential review by members of the Bar, she has been repeatedly listed in the Directory of Super Lawyers.

The San Francisco Business Times repeatedly names Debra Schoenberg to their 100 Top Women Owned Businesses, their 100 Fastest-Growing Private Companies in the Bay Area, and list of the Top 25 LGBT-Owned Businesses in the Bay Area.

Additionally, Ms. Schoenberg was selected by peer recognition and professional achievement as one of the Top Women Attorneys in Northern California and was named one of the Ten Best Family Law Attorneys in California by the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys. The firm has also been repeatedly selected as one of the top three family law firms in the Bay Area. Parent’s Press East Bay has also voted Schoenberg Family Law Group Best of Bay 2017. Most recently, Ms. Schoenberg was named to American Institute of Legal Counsel Top 10 California Attorneys for her dedication to families and working out the best situation for each of her clients. Ms. Schoenberg is a member of the California, New York, and Vermont Bar Associations. She is the author of a book entitled “Divorce in California.”

HONORS AND AWARDS

Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers

Listed in the Directory of Super Lawyers 2007, 2008, 2011, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018

The San Francisco Business Times’ 100 Top Women Owned Businesses, 2013 – 2018

The San Francisco Business Times’ list of the 100 Fastest-Growing Private Companies in the Bay Area, 2014 – 2018

The San Francisco Business Times’ list of the Top 25 LGBT-Owned Business in the Bay Area, 2015 – 2018

Top Women Attorneys in Northern California

American Institute of Family Law Attorneys ‘ Ten Best Family Law Attorneys in California, 2015 – 2017

American Jurist Institute – Top Ten Family Law Attorneys, 2017

CLASSES/SEMINARS

Navigating Life’s Transitions: A Financial and Legal Survival Guide, 2015

Tax Consequences of Divorce, State Assistant Judges, 2008

An Income Tax Primer for Family Law Practitioners, State Bar Association, 2008

What Family Court Judges Want You to Know, National Business Institute, 2007

Family Law: Year in Review, State Bar Association, 2007

Preventing Financial Mistakes during Divorce, National Business Institute, 2007

Child Custody and Shared Parenting, National Business Institute, 2007

Successful Financial Settlements for your Divorce Client, National Business Institute, 2007

Family Law: Helping Your Clients through Difficult Times, National Business Institute, 2007

A Road Map through Divorce Proceedings, National Business Institute, 2006

Family Law: Year in Review, State Bar Association, 2006

Advertising Ethically and Effectively, State Bar Association, 2006

Equitable Divorce Settlements, National Business Institute, 2006

What Family Court Judges Want You to Know, National Business Institute, 2006

Complex Matrimonial Law Issues, National Business Institute, 2005

Domestic Law in Vermont, National Business Institute, 2005

Tax Consequences of Divorce, State Assistant Judges, 2005

Business Valuations for the Matrimonial Practitioner, State Chapter of National Association of Certified Valuation Accountants, 2004

Keeping it Civil: The Same Sex Couples’ Journey, New York State Bar Association, 2004

Successfully Dealing with Life Transitions, Key Bank Financial Forum for Women, 2004

Dealing with the Pro Se Litigant, State Bar Association, 2004

Complex Issues in Divorce, National Business Institute, 2004

Divorce Cases from Start to Finish, National Business Institute, 2003

Women in Transition: Dealing with Issues Surrounding Divorce, Salomon Smith Barney, 2000 – 2003

Complex Divorce for the Vermont Practitioner, National Business Institute, 2003

Pro Se Litigation Education, State Family Court, 2000 – 2001

Business Valuation: Presentation of Exhibits, Admissibility, Persuasiveness, State Bar Association, 2001

Family Law and Relief from Abuse, Vermont Volunteers Lawyers Project, 2000

Trusts, Estate Planning and Divorce, National Business Institute, 2000

Child Custody and Time Sharing, National Business Institute, 1999 – 2000

How to Utilize the Magistrate, State Bar Association, 2000

 

Awards

Reviews for Debra R.

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Overall Rating
Showing 1-10 of 163 client reviews from Lawyers.com
Lawyers.com Rating Snapshot
5 stars
74%
4 stars
1%
3 stars
0%
2 stars
0%
1 star
25%
What do people say on Lawyers.com?
Communication
4.0
Quality of Service
4.0
Responsiveness
4.0
Value for Money
4.0
Divorce
Posted by anonymous
May 07, 2025
Hired Attorney

I highly recommend Debra to anyone seeking an experienced, creative, thoughtful, honest, and thorough attorney. From the outset of our case, she established a baseline of excellent communication, which she maintained throughout an otherwise stressful time that stretched on for months. We were so grateful knowing that she was on top of the evolving situation and would clearly and patiently explain everything to us as it happened. Furthermore, she was always several steps ahead, knowing what to do and how to navigate things to get the best result—no matter how many curveballs came our way. We were truly pleased with how everything turned out. I would absolutely trust her with any legal issue and recommend her without hesitation.

 
Divorce
Posted by anonymous
May 07, 2025
Hired Attorney

Debra Schoenberg exceeded any expectations I could’ve had for how amazing an attorney could be. She’s extremely intelligent, and I was stunned by how well she represented me. I highly recommend Debra, and I’m very thankful for all she has done for me.

Divorce
Posted by anonymous
May 07, 2025
Hired Attorney

Debra is truly one of a kind. From the moment I connected with her, I felt completely supported, respected, and heard—something that’s incredibly rare in the legal system, especially for survivors navigating complex trauma. What sets Debra apart is that she’s not just a brilliant attorney; she’s a fierce advocate who genuinely cares about her clients as human beings, not just as cases. She took the time to understand my unique circumstances, offering not only legal guidance but emotional support when I needed it most. Debra guided me through one of the most difficult and emotionally charged legal battles of my life with integrity, patience, and unwavering professionalism. She never rushed me and always made sure I understood every step of the process. When I didn’t have the strength to fight for myself, Debra was there, fighting tirelessly on my behalf. She believed in my truth when others tried to silence it, and her unwavering belief in me made all the difference.

 
Divorce
Posted by anonymous
April 01, 2025
Hired Attorney

I hired Debra to represent me during my divorce, and I’m so glad I did. The process can be overwhelming, but Debra guided me through every step. She took the time to explain the law and helped me understand what I was entitled to. Her knowledge and thoroughness gave me confidence during such a challenging time. Divorce is never easy, so it's crucial to have an attorney who ensures you're set up for success once it's over. Debra's support made a difficult process more manageable, and I’m grateful for her expertise.

 
Divorce
Posted by anonymous
April 01, 2025
Hired Attorney

Debra is an outstanding family law attorney—well-prepared, reasonable, and professional. She handles tough cases with strength and determination, while maintaining respect and avoiding unnecessary hostility. I appreciated how she took the time to understand my needs, keeping me informed and confident in every decision. Her strategic thinking and compassionate approach make her a standout professional. I highly recommend Debra for anyone seeking skilled, thoughtful legal representation.

 
Divorce
Posted by anonymous
April 01, 2025
Hired Attorney

I hired Debra last year to help me through a difficult divorce, where I faced false allegations and needed strong legal support. From our first conversation, she made me feel heard, understood, and confident that I had someone truly fighting for my rights. Debra’s responsiveness during the emergency stages of my case was impressive, and her legal expertise was exactly what I needed.

 
Divorce
Posted by anonymous
March 06, 2025
Hired Attorney

Going through a difficult divorce that involved complicated asset division and child custody issues was incredibly stressful. It felt overwhelming at times, especially with so many aspects of my life hanging in the balance. However, I am deeply grateful to have had the support of Debra Schoenberg and the team at Schoenberg Law Firm during this challenging period.

 
Divorce
Posted by anonymous
March 06, 2025
Hired Attorney

When I was blindsided with divorce papers, I felt lost and overwhelmed. Fortunately, Schoenberg Family Law provided the guidance I desperately needed. Debra Schoenberg took the time to explain the complicated legal process step by step, breaking down the jargon and offering much-needed patience. She ensured I received my fair share of assets and, most importantly, helped me secure a great child custody arrangement. Debra’s expertise and unwavering support made a challenging time more manageable, and I am truly grateful for her help. I highly recommend Schoenberg Family Law to anyone facing similar challenges.

 
Divorce
Posted by anonymous
February 06, 2025
Hired Attorney

I will forever be grateful to Debra and the entire team at Schoenberg Law for their unwavering support during one of the darkest and most difficult times in my life. As a victim of domestic violence, I felt helpless and overwhelmed, but Debra became my fierce advocate, working tirelessly to ensure my safety. My case was complex and dragged on for over a year, yet Debra never wavered in her dedication to me. She fought relentlessly, always ensuring my protection throughout the entire process. Debra was more than just my lawyer; she became my advocate, support system, and source of strength. She was there for me every step of the way, always quick to respond to my calls and emails, offering reassurance when I felt lost. Her compassion, empathy, and dedication made all the difference when I was struggling to keep going. Knowing she was on my side gave me the security and confidence I needed to face such a challenging and uncertain time. Thanks to her expertise and tireless efforts, we w

 
Divorce
Posted by anonymous
February 06, 2025
Hired Attorney

I can’t thank Debra Schoenberg enough for her amazing support during my difficult divorce. She fought tirelessly to ensure I received what was rightfully mine in a very challenging situation. Debra was always available, whether by phone, email, or text, and responded quickly to provide reassurance when I needed it most. Her dedication made a tough process much more manageable. I highly recommend Debra and Schoenberg Law to anyone in need of a hardworking, supportive attorney.

 

Services

Areas of Law

  • Family Law 8
    • Divorce
    • Military Divorce
    • Paternity
    • Premarital Agreements
    • Spousal Support
    • Child Custody
    • Visitation Rights
    • Child Support
  • Annulment
  • Domestic Partnerships
  • Domestic Violence
  • Gay and Lesbian Family Law
  • Restraining Orders
  • Property Law
  • Appellate Practice
  • Other 22
    • Alimony
    • Cohabitation Agreements
    • Community Property Law
    • Domestic Relations
    • Domestic Torts
    • International Family Law
    • Interstate Support
    • Marital Agreements
    • Marital Property Distribution
    • Marital Property Law
    • Marital Property Settlements
    • Matrimonial Law
    • Non-Traditional Family Law
    • Palimony
    • Post Divorce Modification
    • Postnuptial Agreements
    • Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs)
    • Separation Agreements
    • Uncontested Divorce
    • Domestic Partnership Dissolution
    • Pension Distribution
    • Modification of Orders

Practice Details

  • Payment Information
    Payment & Cost Features
    Fixed hourly rates
    Accepted Credit Cards
    American Express
    Discover
    MasterCard
    Visa
  • Firm Information
    Position
    Principal
    Firm Name
    Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C.
  • Additional Links

Experience

  • Bar Admission & Memberships
    Admissions
    1987, U.S. District Court Northern District of New York
    2012, U.S. District Court Northern District of California
    1990, U.S. Supreme Court
    1986, New York
    1994, Vermont
    2008, California
    Memberships

    California Bar Association, Member – Family Law Section

    New York Bar Association, Member – Family Law Section

    Vermont Bar Association, Member – Family Law Section (Former Chair)

    American Bar Association, Member – Family Law Section

    American Academy of Matrimonial Attorneys, Fellow

    National Board of Trial Advocacy, Board Certified Family Law Trial Specialist

    Directory of Super Lawyers, Family Law Profile 2007, 2008, 2011, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018
    Bar Fellowship
    American Academy of Matrimonial Attorneys.
  • Education & Certifications
    Law School
    Franklin Pierce Law Center
    Class of 1985
    J.D.
    Other Education
    Western College
    Class of 1980
    B.Phil.
    Legal Certifications
    Board Certified Family Law Trial Specialist; National Board of Trial Advocacy; Certified Family Law Specialist; State of California Board of Legal Specialization
  • Personal Details & History
    Age
    Born in 1958
    1958
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Attorneys FAQs

  • Is this attorney Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review rated?
    Yes, Debra R. Schoenberg has a 4.3 Peer Rating from Martindale-Hubbell.
  • Does this attorney accept major credit cards?
    Yes, Debra R. Schoenberg will accept Discover, Visa, MasterCard and American Express.
  • How many attorneys are in this law firm?
    Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C. has 12 attorneys at this location.
  • What law school did this attorney attend?
    Debra R. Schoenberg attended Franklin Pierce Law Center.
  • What year was this attorney's law firm established?
    Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C. was established in 1990.