Rita A. Patterson is a Certified Family Law Specialist and a fellow in the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. With over 25 years of experience in family law, Rita has transitioned her practice from litigation to focus primarily on alternative dispute resolution, including mediation and collaborative divorce. She believes that these processes can provide families with a more efficient, cost-effective and tailored approach to resolving their differences, allowing for meaningful communication and creative solutions.
As a trained family law mediator, Rita helps couples navigate the divorce process through constructive, interest-based negotiation in a neutral setting. She is committed to helping families reach mutually beneficial agreements with compassion and respect while minimizing conflict and preserving important relationships, particularly when children are involved.
Throughout her career, Rita has handled complex financial and custody issues including property characterization, tracing, spousal and child support, business valuation, allocation of equity interests, premarital agreements, and parenting plans. Her extensive litigation background provides valuable insight into the challenges families face, allowing her to guide clients toward practical, durable resolutions.
Rita moved to the Bay Area in 1999 and was admitted to the California State Bar in 2000. She became a Family Law Specialist in 2005 and practiced with the law firm of Hammer & Jacobs, LLP from 2000-2007, where she was made a partner in 2005. Rita joined Lakin Spears, LLP as a partner in 2008.
Rita is currently a mentor for new and junior family lawyers for the Northern California Chapter of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. Rita has been named a Northern California Super Lawyer every year since 2010. She is also a member of the Santa Clara County Bar Association and the San Mateo County Bar Association. She has been a presenter at family law continuing education seminars and has served as a Pro Tem Settlement Officer for the Family Law Division of the Santa Clara County Superior Court.
