PRACTICE PROFILE:

Mary L. Needham, Esq. is a highly experienced Family Law attorney with an active practice in Marin, San Francisco, Alameda, Contra Costa, and San Mateo Counties, and with offices in Marin and San Francisco Counties. In addition, the technologically advanced nature of her practice has facilitated the successful representation of out-of-state and international clients involved in California litigation.

With more than 14 years' experience as a litigator, Ms. Needham vigorously represents clients in cases involving marital dissolution, legal separation, nullity, spousal and child support, custody and visitation, property division, restraining orders and fee requests.

In addition to her experience in litigating cases to successful judgment and verdict, she also has broad experience in resolving cases through negotiation.  Indeed, Ms. Needham's  philosophy is strongly opposed to a "cookie-cutter" approach to family law.  Instead, she adapts to each individual case and to the needs of each individual client, and then employs whichever strategy will be most effective in securing the best emotional and financial outcome for her client.

Ms. Needham also advises and represents clients in more complex family law matters. Her experience ranges over such issues as breach of fiduciary duties between spouses, proving self-employment income, and challenging judgments. She is also experienced at working in conjunction with Minor's Counsel and with forensic experts, such as accountants, handwriting experts, and custody evaluators. Lastly, she is experienced at negotiating with, and litigating against, the Department of Child Support Services.

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND:

Ms. Needham has practiced law since 1993, having obtained her law degree that year from the University of San Francisco, School of Law. Previously, in 1990, she earned her B.A. from the University of Colorado at Boulder, graduating Phi Beta Kappa.

Ms. Needham is a member of the State Bar of California and the Family Law Section, and she is an active member of local bar associations. At the invitation of Judge Lynn Duryee, she served as Chair of the Civility Committee, under the auspices of the Marin County Bar Association.