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. Schoenberg

Have you consulted or hired this lawyer?

Leave a review about your experience with this lawyer.

Write a Review

Overall Rating
Showing 1-10 of 154 client reviews from Lawyers.com
Lawyers.com Rating Snapshot
5 stars
72%
4 stars
1%
3 stars
0%
2 stars
0%
1 star
27%
What do people say on Lawyers.com?
Communication
3.9
Quality of Service
3.9
Responsiveness
3.9
Value for Money
3.9
Divorce
Posted by Elisa
September 04, 2025
Hired Attorney Debra R. Schoenberg

I highly recommend Schoenberg Family Law. Debra represented me in a very personal matter involving my children, and I felt fully supported throughout the entire process. She and the team were compassionate, responsive, and attentive to both my emotional and legal needs. They handled everything efficiently and kept me informed every step of the way. I appreciated how thorough they were and how quickly they responded to my questions. I was also offered additional services to help protect my family and assets, but never felt pressured—only educated and empowered. Their care and professionalism made a difficult time much easier.

 
Divorce
Posted by anonymous
September 04, 2025
Hired Attorney Debra R. Schoenberg

I worked with Debra to review a prenuptial agreement, and the experience was outstanding. She took the time to clearly explain every part of the agreement, ensuring I fully understood each clause and how it could impact my life. Her real-world examples made everything easy to grasp. Debra was transparent, thoughtful, and a true advocate for me throughout the process. I felt supported, informed, and confident in my decisions. She made what could have been a stressful experience feel manageable and even empowering. I would absolutely recommend Debra to anyone seeking knowledgeable and compassionate legal guidance.

 
Divorce
Posted by anonymous
August 04, 2025
Hired Attorney Debra R. Schoenberg

Debra Schoenberg and her team provided exceptional legal support during my divorce. They were knowledgeable, professional, and genuinely compassionate throughout the entire process. From keeping me informed to offering thoughtful guidance, I always felt supported and confident that my case was in good hands. Their integrity and dedication made a challenging time much easier to navigate. I highly recommend Schoenberg Law to anyone seeking skilled and empathetic legal representation.

 
Divorce
Posted by anonymous
August 04, 2025
Hired Attorney Debra R. Schoenberg

Debra Schoenberg and her team made my divorce process much more manageable. They were compassionate, highly knowledgeable, and always responsive. From the initial consultation to the final resolution, I felt fully supported and well-informed. Debra took the time to explain my rights and options, answering all my questions quickly and clearly. Their professionalism and attention to detail led to a fair outcome, allowing me to move forward with peace of mind. I highly recommend Schoenberg Law.

 
Divorce
Posted by anonymous
August 04, 2025
Hired Attorney Debra R. Schoenberg

I recently met with Debra Schoenberg and was impressed by her legal expertise, professionalism, and genuine care for her clients. She has a unique ability to simplify complex legal matters, which made me feel confident and at ease throughout our conversations. Debra truly prioritizes her clients' best interests, whether discussing prenuptial agreements, mediation, or sensitive issues like restraining orders. Her combination of legal knowledge and compassionate advocacy is rare. If you’re looking for an attorney who is both highly skilled and empathetic, I highly recommend Debra Schoenberg for any family law matters.

 
Divorce
Posted by anonymous
July 02, 2025
Hired Attorney Debra R. Schoenberg

Debra stood by me through every stage of my legal journey, from navigating the emotional challenges of divorce to the difficult custody battle that followed. In every courtroom, she came fully prepared, confident, and committed to securing the best possible outcome. She doesn’t need to raise her voice to be heard—her professionalism, expertise, and clear strategy speak volumes. Debra is always honest, even when the truth is hard to hear, because she understands that clarity and direction are crucial. She avoids unnecessary drama, focusing solely on what truly matters: advocating for her clients’ rights with strength and conviction. What sets Debra apart is her combination of compassion and unwavering integrity. She brings both a calm presence and a powerful resolve to every case, providing confidence even in the toughest moments. If you want an attorney who listens, cares, and fights for you with dignity, Debra is the advocate you need.

 
Divorce
Posted by anonymous
July 02, 2025
Hired Attorney Debra R. Schoenberg

Debra was a steadfast advocate throughout my case. Her legal expertise, straightforward approach, and compassion provided the guidance I needed during a difficult time. I’m grateful to Debra and her team for their unwavering support. If you’re facing a divorce, especially with children involved, Debra is the best choice.

Child Custody
Posted by anonymous
July 02, 2025
Hired Attorney Debra R. Schoenberg

Debra recently represented me in a custody case, after previously guiding me through a divorce. I can't recommend her enough. She truly listens to her clients' needs and offers honest, clear advice rooted in her extensive experience. Debra tells it like it is, which I deeply appreciated, and she fights relentlessly for her clients. The entire team at her office was incredibly supportive throughout the entire process. If you're looking for an attorney who combines strength, integrity, and genuine care, Debra is the one you want in your corner.

 
Divorce
Posted by anonymous
May 28, 2025
Hired Attorney Debra R. Schoenberg

Over the last several months I've worked closely with Ms Schoenberg and her team in a very sensitive family court issue. I can't recommend them enough. I was treated well, remained in close communication and I feel my needs were met at every turn as well as my options presented in a comprehensive manner. Speaking from my experience, 10/10. Bravo and thank you all for your amazing dedication!

 
Divorce
Posted by anonymous
May 28, 2025
Hired Attorney Debra R. Schoenberg

Debra Schoenberg is an outstanding, talented lawyer who made a significant impact during our child custody process. She ensured we received a fair deal, providing expert guidance every step of the way. What stands out most is her unwavering support, even after the legal proceedings were complete. She continues to be a reliable source of advice and guidance whenever we have questions. Debra’s dedication to her clients is unmatched, and I highly recommend her to anyone seeking legal counsel. Her professionalism, expertise, and care make her an invaluable asset to anyone navigating legal challenges.

 

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
Case type is required.
I am is required.
First name is required.
Last name is required.
A valid zip code is required.
Country is required.
State is required.
A valid city is required.
A valid email address is required.
A valid phone number is required.
Message is required.
0/1000 characters

By clicking the Submit button, you agree to the Terms of Use, Supplemental Terms and Privacy Policy. You also consent to be contacted at the phone number you provided, including by autodials, text messages and/or pre-recorded calls, from Lawyers.com and its affiliates and from or on behalf of attorneys you request or contact through this site. Consent is not a condition of purchase.

You should not send any sensitive or confidential information through this site. Emails sent through this site do not create an attorney-client relationship and may not be treated as privileged or confidential. The lawyer or law firm you are contacting is not required to, and may choose not to, accept you as a client. The internet is not necessarily secure and emails sent though this site could be intercepted or read by third parties.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. See Google’s Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.

Thank you! Your message has been successfully sent.

For your records, a copy of this email has been sent to test@test.com.

Summary of Your Message
Case Type:
I am a/an:
First Name:
Last Name:
City:
Zip Code or Postal Code:
State:
Country:
Phone Number:
Message:

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.