Verna Lilburn

"Attorney Lilburn's range and depth of expertise as a Litigator and Family Lawyer, combined with her compassionate, personalized approach, empowered me to be strong, factual, and reassured."

I became an attorney in 1991 as the next step in my lifelong dedication to advocating for others. During the years preceding my legal career, I learned to appreciate individual differences and to understand that behavior must be viewed within the context of one's circumstances. I also learned that people are capable of learning, growing and dealing with a complex court system if they have strong representation.

Before I practiced law, I was a reading consultant in middle and high school for ten years in affluent suburbs of New York City. Before I was a reading consultant, I taught fourth grade school children who were economically challenged. I entered law school after earning a masters degree in Psychology of School Subjects from the Teacher's College, Columbia and a Sixth Year Certificate in Public School Administration from FairfieldUniversity. After I became an attorney I taught Legal Studies at the University of New Haven for 11 years. I am now on the Advisory Board for that program. My experience as a teacher at all levels has enabled me to appreciate the value of an excellent education and to work toward improving the education of others.

My paralegal, who has been with me since 2003, and I strive to create an environment where clients are informed and part of the decision-making process as they go through the changes produced by divorces, legal separation, or modifications in custody. We welcome questions and make every attempt to offer realistic options to clients. We choose not to be a "one size fits all" firm. We genuinely tailor our services to the individual and are acquainted with other professionals who may also be of service to our clients. We have a strong interest in financial matters and appreciate the importance of finances to a healthy family environment.

My experiences as a mother, wife and member of a close-knit family have helped me to work toward achieving collaboration with others. I strive to resolve cases without litigation, if possible, and have been successful in reaching settlements. If we choose to litigate, we do so thoughtfully and thoroughly. Preparation is essential and important.

We understand the role of family in achieving personal happiness. We also understand the pain experienced by those whose family structure has been altered. I have chosen Family Law as a calling as a result of my personal belief that families can survive despite disruption and challenges and that they can share strong bonds even without marriage.

My personal interests and hobbies are varied. I enjoy socializing, traveling, hiking, swimming, exercising, reading, concerts, and movies.