Certified Family Law Specialist – The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization
Fellow, American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers
Partner, Chair of the Family Law Mediation and Collaborative Practice Group
HIGHLY CREDENTIALED FAMILY LAW SPECIALIST
Hildy L. Fentin has built a local and national reputation for excellence, integrity and professionalism, with over 40 years of experience handling complex Family Law matters. She graduated from Rutgers School of Law in 1980 and then gained admittance to the bars of Massachusetts, Connecticut, and California. A former Legal Aid attorney in the San Francisco area, Hildy has focused exclusively on Family Law since 1983.
Hildy’s approach focuses on creative problem solving to reach peaceful resolutions. Her process empowers you to make informed decisions about your finances and your family.
HONORS & AWARDS
Hildy Fentin is a highly regarded family law specialist with extensive experience and credentials.
Fellow of the nationally prestigious American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML)
A selective fellowship of attorneys committed to the highest standards of professionalism and excellence in the practice of family law; Southern CA Chapter Treasurer, 2006-2010; Membership Chair, 2010–2013; President Elect, 2013-2014; President, 2014-2015.
Norby Award Recipient
2001 Judge Norbert Ehrenfreud Family Law Award (Norby) for dedicated and meritorious service to the Family Law Bench and Bar, awarded annually by the Family Law Judicial Officers.
Best Lawyers
Selected for Collaborative Law: Family Law, Family Law and Family Law Mediation specialties, 2007 – present. The first attorney in San Diego to be selected for both specialties in 2007. In 2016, 2018, and 2024, Ms. Fentin received the Lawyer of the Year award from The Best Lawyers in America® for work in Family Law Mediation.
Super Lawyers
Distinguished as a Super Lawyer, 2007-present.
Judge Pro Tempore, Settlement Conference Judge
San Diego Superior Court, 1993 – present.
Highest Martindale-Hubbell Rating
(AV Preeminent 5.0/5.0) based on peer reviews for professional excellence.
BAR ADMISSIONS
1983 – California
1981 – Massachusetts and Connecticut
EDUCATION
1980 – Rutgers University School of Law, Camden, J.D.
1977 – University of Massachusetts, Amherst, B.A., Phi Beta Kappa
CERTIFICATIONS
1992 – Certified Family Law Specialist (CFLS)
Met all qualifications established by the California Board of Legal Specialization for Family Law
MEMBERSHIPS
San Diego County Bar Association: Family Law Section
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- Executive Committee of the Certified Family Law Specialist Committee, 1995-1997 and 1999-2001, Chair, 2001
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- Alternate Dispute Resolution Committee, 1994-1998
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- Family Court Services Committee, 1999-2003
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- Family Law Local Rules Committee, 2003-2008; Chair, 2003-2004
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- Minors Counsel Committee, 1997-2009; Chair, 1997-1998
Collaborative Family Law Group of San Diego
Member 2003 – present; Board Member, 2009, 2011-2012; President, 2013
The Lawyer’s Club of San Diego
Member 1990-present
California Lawyers Association
Member (Family Law Section)
San Diego Trial Lawyers
Member, Attorney Referral Service; Chair, Family Law Section, 1995-2000
COMPLIMENTARY 30-minute introduction
To request a complimentary 30-minute in-person introduction with Ms. Fentin, please call 858-755-3000, ext. 106.
You will find personal attention, creative problem solving and the efficient, skilled attorney/mediator you need to resolve your Family Law matters peacefully.
For more information about Ms. Fentin’s mediation and collaborative practice please visit www.fentinlaw.com.
