Los Angeles Divorce and Family Law Attorneys
THE LAW OFFICES OF CATHLEEN NORTON
Experienced, Steady Family Law Counsel When the Stakes Are Personal
Family law matters are rarely just legal disputes. They involve children, finances, safety, and the future of people’s lives. Clients come to my office not only because they need an attorney—but because they need clarity, steadiness, and real-world judgment during an uncertain time.
I am Cathleen Norton, the founder of the Law Offices of Cathleen Norton, and I have practiced family law exclusively for more than 20 years. I am a Certified Family Law Specialist by the State Bar of California—an advanced designation held by a small percentage of California family law attorneys.
My practice is focused on providing clear advice, strategic advocacy, and grounded solutions in divorce, custody, support, and related family law matters throughout Los Angeles County.
A Practice Built on Experience and Judgment
Family law is not formulaic. Outcomes are shaped by facts, credibility, documentation, judicial discretion, and timing. Clients benefit most from counsel who understands not just the law—but how courts actually apply it.
Over the course of my career, I have handled:
- Complex custody and visitation disputes
- High-conflict divorce matters
- Child and spousal support cases
- Domestic violence and restraining order proceedings
- Paternity and parentage actions
- Post-judgment enforcement and modification matters
I approach each case with careful preparation, direct communication, and an emphasis on protecting what matters most—particularly when children are involved.
Certified Family Law Specialist (CFLS)
Certification as a Family Law Specialist is awarded by the State Bar of California to attorneys who have demonstrated:
- Substantial involvement in family law matters
- Advanced legal knowledge and experience
- Favorable peer review
- Successful completion of a rigorous specialty examination
This certification reflects not only experience, but depth of practice and professional standards.
A Thoughtful, No-Drama Approach
Family law litigation is stressful enough without unnecessary conflict. While I advocate firmly for my clients, I do not believe in escalating disputes for their own sake.
My approach is:
- Strategic, not reactive
- Prepared, not performative
- Focused on outcomes, not theatrics
When settlement is appropriate, I pursue it thoughtfully. When litigation is necessary, I prepare cases carefully and present them clearly.
Access to Justice and Client Education
Not every family law issue requires—or can sustain—full-scale litigation. Part of my work is helping clients understand:
- Their rights and obligations
- What the court is likely to care about
- Where to focus time, money, and energy
I believe informed clients make better decisions. Education and transparency are core values of my practice.
Professional Background
- Cathleen Elisabeth Norton, Esq.
- State Bar of California #237452
- Certified Family Law Specialist
- UCLA School of Law Graduate
- Practicing family law exclusively since 2005
Serving Los Angeles and Ventura Counties
The Law Offices of Cathleen Norton serve clients throughout Los Angeles, including Beverly Hills, West Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Woodland Hills, Sherman Oaks, Encino, Northridge, West Hills, Chatsworth, and the San Fernando Valley. We also serve clients in Ventura County, including Ventura, Oxnard, Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, and surrounding areas.