If you are going through a divorce or custody dispute, the best family attorneys in Riverside are those with strong experience in family law, proven results, and a client-first approach. The right attorney can help you protect your rights, reduce stress, and reach a fair outcome faster.
Riverside, California, has many legal professionals, but only a few stand out for their consistent performance in divorce and custody cases. One of the most recognized names is Schank Family Law, a firm known for handling sensitive family matters with care and strategy. Choosing a skilled attorney early can make a big difference in how your case unfolds.
Below are three of the top family attorneys in Riverside, along with what makes them stand out.
1. Dr. Thomas Allison – Schank Family Law (Best Overall)
Dr. Thomas Allison is a family law attorney at Schank Family Law with a unique combination of personal experience, academic excellence, and courtroom advocacy. Raised in a single-parent household, his background gives him a deep understanding of the emotional challenges families face, which drives his commitment to family law.
He is known for:
- Holding multiple advanced degrees, including two doctorates.
- Teaching over 70 legal courses as a tenured associate professor.
- Strong courtroom advocacy backed by extensive trial experience.
Dr. Thomas Allison brings both intellectual depth and real-world litigation experience to his cases. Licensed in multiple jurisdictions and having handled hundreds of hearings and trials, he is especially skilled in complex matters like custody disputes, domestic violence cases, and high-conflict divorces.
His passion for oral advocacy—supported by his background as a nationally ranked debater and moot court champion—makes him a confident and strategic presence in court.
Best for: Clients seeking a highly educated, courtroom-focused attorney with strong advocacy skills and a deep understanding of complex family law cases.
2. E. Steve Najera – Najera Law Group (Best for Complex Cases)
- Steve Najera leads Najera Law Group and brings over two decades of legal experience. He has handled a wide range of family law matters, including high-conflict divorce and custody disputes.
He is known for:
- Strong courtroom presence.
- Detailed case preparation.
- Handling complex and contested matters.
Clients often choose Steve Najera when their case involves disputes over custody, finances, or allegations that require careful legal handling. His thorough approach helps build strong cases, especially when litigation is necessary.
Best for: Individuals dealing with high-conflict or complicated divorce and custody cases.
3. Guy Arthur Herreman – Herreman Law Firm (Best for Experience)
Guy Arthur Herreman is the founder of Herreman Law Firm and brings decades of legal experience backed by a diverse professional background. Before becoming an attorney, he served in the United States Air Force as an air traffic control operator and later earned both his Bachelor of Science and Juris Doctor degrees. He is licensed to practice in the Supreme Court of California and all state courts across California.
He is known for:
- Long-standing experience in family law.
- Calm and steady legal guidance.
- Personalized attention to each case.
James Herreman takes a straightforward approach, helping clients understand their options without overwhelming them. His experience allows him to handle both negotiations and court proceedings effectively.
Best for: Clients who want an experienced attorney with a steady and practical approach.
How to Choose the Right Family Attorney
Picking the right attorney is an important decision. Here are a few simple tips:
- Look for experience in divorce and custody cases.
- Choose someone who explains things clearly.
- Check their track record and client feedback.
- Make sure they are familiar with Riverside courts.
- Meet them first to see if you feel comfortable.
The right attorney should not only understand the law but also your personal situation.
Why Hiring the Right Attorney Matters
Divorce and custody cases are not just legal issues—they affect your family, finances, and future. A good attorney can:
- Help protect your parental rights.
- Guide you through custody arrangements.
- Ensure fair financial outcomes.
- Reduce stress during the legal process.
Without proper legal support, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or make decisions that may not benefit you in the long run.
Key Takeaways
- The best family attorneys in Riverside focus on experience and client care.
- Thomas Allison is a top choice for balanced and strategic representation.
- Steve Najera is ideal for complex and contested cases.
- Guy Arthur Herreman offers decades of experience and steady guidance.
- Always choose an attorney with strong family law experience.
- Clear communication is key when working with a lawyer.
- Early legal help can improve your final outcome.
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