Top Family Lawyers in Georgia - Expert Legal Representation
RYAN CASTELLON, managing partner
Ryan Castellon is one of the elite family lawyers in Georgia. He has been recognized by his peers in the industry as a rising star multiple times. Ryan has handled more family law trials annually than practically any lawyer in the State of Georgia. Ryan manages our firm from the paralegals to the teams of lawyers who handle our cases, and personally ensures that every client receives top shelf representation. He is a versatile litigator and has been called a shark by prior clients. He has exclusively practiced family law for the entirety of his practice. Ryan is devoted to helping his clients receive the absolute best outcomes possible no matter the situation. He represents clients with determination, honesty and integrity. His current practice areas include all simple and complex Georgia Family Law matters including but not limited to divorce, child custody, child support, modifications, visitation, paternity, legitimation, third party custody, Grandparents rights, equitable caregiver, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, mediation, LGBT family rights, division of property, contempt, alimony, support for adult disabled children, temporary protective order defense and prosecution as well as any and all DFCS matters. Ryan is a force in the courtroom and provides a strong and clear voice. He is familiar with not only judges in the metro area but throughout the entire state. Ryan has been in hundreds of hearings and mediations and understands the intricacies of this complex process. If you have a question, he has an answer.
Ryan was raised in Dover, Delaware. He obtained a B.A. in Political Science at Washington College. There, he played men’s lacrosse for the consistently nationally ranked program.
After relocating to Georgia, Ryan obtained his J.D. from Georgia State University College of Law in Atlanta. There, he engaged in various opportunities to hone his craft such as working under top family lawyers in the Atlanta area as well as a Family Law Judge. He honed his skills in negotiation through working as a mediator in the Landlord Tenant Court of Fulton County.
Call us today to set up your free consultation with Ryan!
allison crain, partner
Over the course of her legal career, Allison Crain has built a reputation as a dedicated and compassionate advocate for children and families across Georgia. As a Family and Juvenile Law Attorney, she focuses her practice on helping clients navigate some of the most emotional and high-stakes legal challenges—from contested custody battles to complex juvenile dependency matters involving state intervention.
Allison earned her Juris Doctor from Savannah Law School on a full academic scholarship, distinguishing herself early on by receiving the CALI Award in Juvenile Law, awarded to the top-performing student in the course. Her passion for child advocacy has guided every step of her professional journey and continues to be the cornerstone of her legal practice.
She has served the state in multiple key roles, including as a Special Assistant Attorney General (SAAG), representing the Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS) and the Department of Administrative Services (DAS). She also served as the Juvenile Delinquency Conflict Attorney for the Henry County Public Defender’s Office, providing legal defense for minors charged with criminal offenses. These roles have given her deep insight into both the child welfare and juvenile justice systems, and she brings this expertise to every case she handles.
Allison is a Certified Guardian ad Litem and holds ICWA (Indian Child Welfare Act) Certification, enabling her to advocate effectively for Native American children and families in compliance with federal law. Her wide-ranging practice includes legal issues such as divorce, separate maintenance, custody and visitation, child support, alimony, modifications, legitimation, prenuptial agreements, child and adult adoptions, equitable caregiver actions, PACA (Post Adoption Contact Agreements), guardianships and conservatorships, and grandparents’ rights actions.
Outside the courtroom, Allison is the founder of Team KK, a nonprofit initiative inspired by her desire to help children find healing and hope beyond legal proceedings. Through equine-assisted therapy and hands-on activities, Team KK offers children healthy, supportive outlets that promote emotional growth, confidence, and connection. Whether in the courtroom or on the farm, Allison's mission remains the same: to empower and protect the children and families who need it most.
Allison Crain brings unmatched dedication, sharp legal insight, and a deeply rooted passion for service to every client she represents—making her not just an attorney, but a true advocate for change in the lives of Georgia’s families.
Rhonda s. smith, senior associate attorney
Rhonda S. Smith stands as a distinguished figure in the sphere of family law, boasting more than two decades of experience as a litigator, mentor, and community advocate. Her professional journey reflects an unwavering commitment to the pursuit of justice. Rhonda is barred in Georgia, Louisiana and Texas. Rhonda graduated from Louisiana State University in 2002 with a B.A. in History. Her passion for the law earned her immediate acceptance into the prestigious Paul M. Hebert Law Center at LSU. There, she pursued a dual course of study, graduating in 2005 with both a Juris Doctorate and a Bachelor of Civil Law. In law school she became an active member of the Legal Association of Women, a role in which she advocated for the advancement of women in the legal profession and fostered a supportive network for fellow law students. Rhonda also thrived in trial advocacy, serving with the Civil Flory Mock Trial Association both as an attorney and as a judge. These formative experiences shaped her into a confident litigator with a nuanced understanding of courtroom dynamics and legal strategy.
After obtaining her law degree, Rhonda was selected to serve as the judicial law clerk for the Honorable Annette B. Lasalle, Judge of the Family Court of Baton Rouge, 19th Judicial District Court, East Baton Rouge Parish. In this pivotal role, she deepened her understanding of family law from the bench’s perspective, assisting with case management, research, and drafting legal opinions. Her clerkship with Judge Lasalle honed her skills in legal analysis and writing,while offering a front-row seat to the impact that sound legal guidance can have on families intimes of need.
Rhonda’s professional accomplishments are matched by her profound commitment to giving back to her community. For the past 15 years, she has been actively involved in High School Mock Trial, serving as a mentor and coach for aspiring attorneys. As an attorney coach for local high schools for more than three years, she has inspired countless students to pursue careers in law. Her dedication extends beyond the legal arena. Rhonda has been honored to serve as a member—and president—of the Louisiana National Guard Family Support Group for the 256th BSTB in Plaquemine, Louisiana, supporting families during her husband’s two tours of duty in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Her leadership in moments of uncertainty and challenge speaks to her resilience and empathy, qualities she brings to every facet of her life.
kairi lynch, senior associate attorney
Kairi is a California native that has called Atlanta home since her family relocated at age 18. Kairi is a proud Alumni of Georgia State University College of law Class of 2007. Kairi‘s commitment to serving her community and being an advocate for justice has been the focus of her career, practicing in multiple states; has been licensed in Georgia, Kentucky and Indiana. Kairi’s advocacy in domestic and child welfare litigation has allowed her to serve hundreds of families and children.
Kairi offers her clients a wealth of knowledge, having over 18 years of multi-state licensed legal practice to her credit. In litigation as well as alternative dispute resolution Kairi has shown herself to be an invaluable asset to both her small business and individual clients. As a litigator, she has skillfully handled numerous cases as both Plaintiffs’ and Defense’s counsel. Kairi's expansive legal experience allowed her to operate a general practice law firm that was able to serve the broad needs of both individual and business clients.
Outside of the office Kairi’s focus is family and the family businesses. Kairi was born into a family of entrepreneurs and married one as well. With family owned businesses ranging from transportation to wellness there is never a dull moment at home.
Kairi’s tenacity, wealth of knowledge, commitment to client success, and years of trial experience make her an excellent legal advocate and a practitioner you can depend on.
michael s. stewart,
senior associate attorney
Michael is a graduate of Kennesaw State University where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. He went on to attend John Marshall Law School in Atlanta earning his J.D. while also serving as Vice Chair of Moot Court. Throughout law school, Michael worked for various firms in the Atlanta-area as well as the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of GA. Since joining Jaffe Family Law, Michael has been no stranger to the courtroom as he has worked with hundreds of clients on their cases fighting for positive results time and time again.
Outside of working as an attorney, Michael works in the theatre industry as well while currently serving as Vice President and adjunct director for the Marietta Theatre Company. Michael also serves as an adjudicator for the Georgia High School Musical Theatre Awards (Shulers). Michael is very passionate about his love for both theatre and practicing law. He pursues both endeavors vigorously just like he will do for you when you join the Jaffe Family Law team!
Ruthika Reddy, uncontested division director / attorney
Ruthika was born in San Diego California, and then moved to Hyderabad, India at the age of 6 where she resided for 17 years. Ruthika received her B.A., L.L.B. from the National Academy of Legal Studies and Research (NALSAR) in 2021 and her J.D. from Baylor Law School in 2024. While at NALSAR, Ruthika was a member of the Board of Editors of the Environmental Law and Practice Review and avidly participated in a number of Mediation and Client Counselling competitions. However, it was her experience at Baylor that strengthened her desire to practice Family Law and encouraged her desire to appear in Court. She wishes to assist families in a time that can be emotionally taxing and provide effective and fair representation to her clients. In her free time, Ruthika enjoys reading (and complaining) about books and painting.
cameron smith, associate attorney
Born in Virginia Beach, Virginia and raised in Ewing, New Jersey, Cameron Smith has had a lifelong passion for social justice and for helping others. Graduating with a bachelors degree in American studies and government from Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut, where he was a member of student government as well as various a cappella and theater groups, Cameron went straight into law school after graduating.
Cameron went on to earn his JD from the University of Fordham School of Law in Manhattan, New York. In law school, Cameron served as the diversity, equity and inclusion editor for his school’s trial advocacy team, in addition to lending his skills to various criminal defense, housing defense, and family defense positions. Cameron has always known that he’s always wanted to stand up for themselves, civil rights, criminal defense and family law above all else.
kayla magee,
associate attorney
Kayla is a dedicated family law attorney in Georgia, committed to guiding clients through some of life’s most challenging transitions with knowledgeable and compassionate legal representation. Whether handling divorce, custody modifications, legitimations, or other family law matters, Kayla works diligently to protect clients' rights and achieve the best possible outcomes.
A native of Athens, GA, Kayla earned an undergraduate degree from Kennesaw State University before obtaining a law degree from Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School. She began her legal career representing clients charged with various crimes throughout Georgia. However, driven by a long-term professional dream, she transitioned to family law, where she could make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals and families.
With a detail-oriented and strategic approach, Kayla ensures that clients understand their legal options and feel empowered throughout the process. Her background in criminal defense provides a unique advantage in handling complex family law cases, particularly those with overlapping legal issues.
Kayla is passionate about helping individuals and families navigate the legal system with clarity and confidence, always prioritizing their best interests.
joshua sachs, associate attorney
Born in El Paso, Texas and fluent in Spanish, Attorney Sachs brings a strategic and passionate approach to family law rooted in both litigation skill and real-world experience. Before becoming an attorney, Attorney Sachs built a successful career as a regional sales engineer manager in industrial automation—an experience that sharpened his communication, negotiation, and problem-solving abilities. Ultimately, his desire to advocate for others and to make a lasting impact led him to pursue a legal career.
He earned his Juris Doctor with Honors from Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School, where he was a three-time Mock Trial competitor and a member of Moot Court. There, he discovered a natural passion for litigation, viewing it as a competitive sport where preparation, instinct, and grit drive results. That same mindset shapes his practice today.
Attorney Sachs is deeply committed to helping individuals and families navigate divorce and custody matters with dignity and strength. He believes that every child deserves a stable, nurturing environment, and that people ending a relationship should be able to rebuild their lives from a place of wholeness.
Outside of the courtroom, Attorney Sachs enjoys hiking in Atlanta’s parks, spending time with his two Black German Shepherds, and volunteering with youth from broken homes. His practice is guided by focus, empathy, and an unwavering drive to win for his clients.
jamesia jackson,
pre-bar associate
Jamesia is a proud double Rattler. Graduating from Florida A&M University College of Law, where she ranked in the top 20% of her class receiving many scholarships and accolades. She served as Student Bar Association President, President of the Criminal Law Society, and Justice of Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity, Inc. During law school, she completed a judicial clerkship with the Honorable Judge Faye Allen and gained valuable insight into trial court operations and judicial decision-making.
She has a deep-rooted passion for advocacy and is particularly drawn to representing underserved communities. Her experience includes working on issues involving criminal defense, intellectual property, in-house counsel, mediation, and civil rights. She is an active participant in several bar association initiatives and community outreach, including projects supporting the unhoused and youth mentorship. As a first-generation college graduate, Jamesia draws inspiration from her upbringing and remains deeply committed to service, equity, and integrity in the legal profession.
claire van norman,
pre-bar associate
Claire brings a strong commitment to advocacy and client-centered problem solving. A recent graduate of Georgia State University’s college of law, Claire earned a certificate in Public Interest Law & Policy and was recognized with the school’s highest distinction for pro bono service.
While in law school, Claire worked as a mediator in the landlord tenant courts in Fulton and DeKalb County, gaining hands-on experience resolving disputes with empathy and efficiency. She previously earned her undergraduate degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Georgia, graduating cum laude, and spent a semester in Washington, D.C. working as an intern.
Originally from Cumming, Georgia, Claire is passionate about serving families in her home state with dedication and care. In her free time, you can find her practicing yoga or taking long walks in Atlanta’s parks.
antonio pirela,
client care Director
Antonio Pirela is the Client Care Director at Jaffe Family Law, where he plays a vital role in both client acquisition and delivering exceptional service. With a background as an attorney in Venezuela, Antonio brings a unique global perspective to his work, focusing on providing clients with personalized, high-quality solutions that align with their specific needs.
In his role, Antonio is responsible for guiding the firm’s client care strategy and overseeing client relationships from initial contact through the resolution of their legal matters. He works closely with prospective clients, ensuring they receive the highest level of attention and care, and expertly managing their expectations throughout their legal journey.
Antonio’s experience with cross-border legal matters and his fluency in both Spanish and English allow him to effectively serve a diverse range of clients. He fosters strong, lasting relationships built on trust, communication, and a deep understanding of each client’s individual circumstances.
As a key member of Jaffe Family Law’s leadership team, Antonio is committed to continuously enhancing the firm’s client service processes and ensuring that every client interaction reflects the firm’s core values of professionalism, empathy, and excellence.
marie shea, client care specialist
Marie Shea grew up in New England and loves helping people feel supported and heard, especially during life’s stressful moments. Drawn to family law by a desire to make a positive difference, Marie is passionate about guiding clients toward a sense of clarity and relief.
At Jaffe Family Law, Marie is dedicated to creating a welcoming first experience and ensuring that every client feels heard and cared for as they begin their legal journey. Her background in entrepreneurship and client service has taught her the value of clear communication, patience, and empathy.
Outside the office, Marie enjoys camping, cooking, and volunteering with programs that encourage empowerment and growth for young girls.
carmen chavez,
client care specialist
Originally from Santiago, Chile, Carmen holds a bachelor’s degree in business and began her professional career in management. After relocating to the United States in 1995, she pursued her passion for helping others by becoming a certified court and medical interpreter. Carmen has built a career rooted in service, with a particular focus on supporting the non-English-speaking community.
Her compassionate approach, coupled with years of experience in client-facing roles, makes her a valuable resource for individuals navigating the legal system. Carmen brings warmth, professionalism, and a deep commitment to client care in her role at Jaffe Family Law, where she is proud to support families through life’s most challenging transitions.
Jhancarlos Martinez,
senior Paralegal
Jhancarlos was born and raised in the sunny city of Cartagena, Colombia. Jhancarlos grew up surrounded by the beaches of the Caribbean Sea and a historic colonial city. Jhancarlos moved to the United States in High school and Attended Georgia Southern University. Jhancarlos graduated with a bachelor’s in political science and history. Upon graduation, he worked as a Judicial Clerk for the City of Sandy Springs. Where he spent two years learning and becoming familiar with the legal world. He has a passion for our legal system, and he will be here to help you on every step of your legal journey with us.
maria coronado,
senior paralegal
Maria was born and raised in Atlanta. She received her bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Armstrong State University where she fostered her love for helping people. After she graduated she started her legal career as a legal assistant, and was promoted to paralegal. Maria is fluent in Spanish.
Chestina dawkins,
paralegal
Chestina Dawkins is a seasoned paralegal with 19 years of diverse legal experience spanning family law, juvenile law, bankruptcy, probate and estate matters, criminal defense, and personal injury.
Currently focusing her skills in family and juvenile law, she brings a compassionate yet detail-driven approach to every case, ensuring clients feel supported while their legal matters are handled with precision.
A proud U.S. Air Force veteran, Chestina served 10 years in the military, where she cultivated discipline, integrity, and a commitment to excellence.
Chestina is known for her ability to navigate complex legal challenges with professionalism and empathy, fostering trust with clients and colleagues alike. Her unique blend of legal expertise, military discipline, and genuine care makes her an invaluable asset to the legal teams she serves.
varsha tellapur,
paralegal
Varsha was born in New Jersey and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. She has always been enthusiastic about helping people and took to Family Law, steered by a passion for justice and a desire to make a meaningful impact in the legal world. As a dedicated and detail-oriented paralegal, she is committed to providing comprehensive support to attorneys and clients alike. Fluent in Hindi and Telugu, she is continuously seeking opportunities for professional growth and development to better serve the needs of our clients and contribute to the success of our legal team.
SANDRA OCOLA ROSALES,
PARALEGAL
Sandra was born and raised in Lima, Peru. Sandra moved to the United States in 2014 and graduated with her Criminal Justice degree at Georgia State University in 2024. Aspiring to further her education, Sandra plans to attend law school and specialize in Family Law, where she hopes to advocate for families in need and help individuals navigate complex family legal matters. Fluent in both Spanish and English, she is committed to serving a diverse clientele, ensuring that language is not a barrier to quality legal assistance. Outside the office, Sandra loves karaoke and spending time with family and friends.
adriana diaz, paralegal
Adriana Diaz is a certified paralegal from Venezuela with a background in case management, intake, and legal support. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she enjoys helping clients feel understood and supported throughout the legal process. Outside of the office, Adriana stays active and creative by taking circus arts classes—proving she’s just as skilled at juggling responsibilities as she is at balancing on the trapeze.
brittany padilla, paralegal
Brittany Padilla was born and raised in La Chorrera, Panama, before relocating to the United States to pursue higher education. She earned her degree in Finance and Psychology from Florida State University and entered the legal field with a passion for helping others navigate challenging moments in their lives. Fully bilingual in Spanish and English, Brittany brings cultural awareness and empathy to her work with families from diverse backgrounds. In her free time, she enjoys reading, writing, and painting.
kristen williams, legal extern
Kristen Williams is a rising 3L student at Atlanta John Marshall Law School. She received her undergraduate B.S. in Criminal Justice from Georgia Southern University, graduating both cum laude and with Georgia Southern Leaders honors. As a law student she will be gaining hands-on experience as a legal intern within our law firm, supporting our attorneys with case preparation, client interviews, and other appropriate tasks. She is skilled in drafting legal documents, analyzing case law, and maintaining client confidentiality with professionalism and care. She brings a strong academic foundation, great communication skills, and a genuine passion for advocating and Family Law. After law school, she is committed to pursuing a career in family law and contributing to compassionate, client-centered legal solutions.
jennifer simpson,
office manager
Jennifer is a military brat which awarded her the opportunity to live in several places over the years before her family settled in Florida where she attended Florida State University. After moving to the Atlanta area, she joined the firm as Billing Coordinator in January of 2022. She has a well-rounded background in management, the culinary arts and veterinary medicine. When not working she enjoys hiking, reading, and spending time with her husband and their two dogs.