Mary Cushing Doherty

Mary Cushing Doherty is a seasoned family law attorney whose practice centers on marital dissolution and related family law matters. She represents clients in divorce, equitable distribution, support, and protection issues, balancing strategic advocacy with practical solutions. Her work reflects a strong commitment to resolving disputes efficiently while protecting long-term financial and family interests.

Mary earned her academic foundation through a structured legal education. She completed her B.A. at the University of Delaware, developing analytical and communication skills that support her legal work. She later earned her J.D. from Villanova University School of Law, where her training prepared her for complex family law advocacy.

Mary concentrates on high-conflict and high-asset family law cases involving detailed financial analysis. She regularly works with forensic accountants and financial professionals to structure equitable outcomes for dependent spouses and high-income individuals. Her experience allows her to anticipate legal challenges and craft durable marital settlement agreements.

Mary is also an experienced Arbitrator and Mediator, offering alternative dispute resolution options when litigation is not the best path. She arbitrates complex financial matters and drafts comprehensive prenuptial agreements, including “romantic” prenuptial agreements designed to encourage transparency, communication, and shared expectations within marriage.

Mary has received extensive professional recognition for her contributions to family law. Her honors include Best Lawyers in America®, Super Lawyers, AV® Preeminent™ Peer Review Rated by Martindale-Hubbell®, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Woman of the Year, the PBA Women in Profession Lynette Norton Award, and Legal Intelligencer Women of the Year.

Mary has also held leadership roles within prominent legal organizations, serving as Chair of multiple Family Law Sections and contributing to legislative reform initiatives. She has lectured for the Pennsylvania Bar Institute and the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, supporting education and advancement within the family law community.

Mary Cushing Doherty brings decades of focused experience, recognized leadership, and practical judgment to every family law matter she handles. Her ability to combine negotiation, arbitration, and litigation allows her to guide clients through difficult transitions with clarity, stability, and well-reasoned legal strategies.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, High Swartz LLP
• Fellow, American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers – Pennsylvania Chapter
• Section Member, Pennsylvania Bar Association, Family Law Section
• Member, Philadelphia Bar Association, Family Law Section
• American Bar Association, Family Law Section (1979-1987) & (1992-2021)
• Board of Directors, Pennsylvania Bar Institute (1992-1998)

Licensed State

• Pennsylvania

Education

• Villanova University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Delaware
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges