Stephen V. Smith

Stephen V. Smith represents clients in divorce, custody, child and spousal support, domestic violence, property division, and other family law matters at Smith Family Law, APC. He has focused exclusively on family law for more than a decade. He uses mediation and settlement when appropriate, while preparing cases for court when compromise is not possible. He has litigated hundreds of contentious family cases in San Diego and works to protect each client’s legal interests effectively.

Stephen earned his B.A. in Political Science from the University of California, San Diego in 2000. He received his J.D. from California Western School of Law in 2002. He was admitted to the California Bar in 2005. He previously served as an associate at Edmunds Law Firm and later as managing associate at Dunne & Dunne, LLP. His education and litigation background support his family law practice throughout California courts.

Stephen handles contested divorces, custody disputes, domestic violence matters, support issues, and high-asset property division cases. He also assists clients through mediation and settlement when a negotiated resolution serves their interests. He has represented hundreds of military members and veterans and developed familiarity with military-specific divorce issues. His courtroom approach combines direct legal analysis, detailed preparation, and advocacy tailored to family law disputes in California trial courts.

Stephen V. Smith founded his family law practice in 2017 after years of work with established San Diego firms. He is a member of the family law sections of the California Bar Association and San Diego Bar Association. He also provided pro bono service through the San Diego Volunteer Lawyers Program Domestic Violence Clinic. His practice emphasizes informed decision-making, strong litigation preparation, and practical guidance for clients navigating family transitions.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Smith Family Law, APC
• Member, California Bar Association, Family Law Section
• Member, San Diego Bar Association, Family Law Section

Licensed State

• California

Education

• California Western School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of California
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)