$ 275-275 per hour
About Chelsea
Biography
The first 18 years of my life were spent right down the road in Kings Mountain, North Carolina. I was raised by two wonderful parents in a loving home and learned the art of compromise at an early age when my little sister was born and eliminated my treasured only-child status. Growing up, my career aspirations ranged from being a meteorologist to the person who gets to name fingernail polishes. I started my college journey at North Carolina State University where I majored in Polymer and Color Chemistry. If you’re wondering what that entails then google it because I’m still not sure. After realizing that chemistry involves a lot of math, I ditched that idea and ended up at Appalachian State University where I found my niche and majored in Criminal Justice and Political Science. During college, I taught group fitness classes, hiked the Blue Ridge Mountains at every opportunity, and made the decision to go to law school. In law school, I was a member of the Trial Advocacy Team and competed in numerous mock trial competitions, which gave me the confidence and skills to advocate for my clients in the courtroom.
When people ask me why I decided to be an attorney, my answer is simple: I knew I would be good at it. As an extrovert, I thoroughly enjoy meeting people from all different backgrounds, listening to their stories and realizing that we all have more in common than we think. My clients are treated with the utmost respect and compassion because I understand how precious your family is to you. I will take the time to listen to your story, understand your goals, and build trust because you deserve no less.
As a family law and estate planning attorney, my job is to empower and educate my clients so they can make the best decisions for themselves and their families. Every case is different and requires a unique, personalized approach—that’s exactly what my firm and I provide. I think it’s wonderful that so many cases can be resolved in mediation, without resorting to trial; but sometimes, litigation is the only option and you need someone to fight for you. I will tailor my approach to your case based on what you need from me at the time. As a client, you will make the decisions as to what direction your case takes and I will provide all the knowledge and guidance necessary to make that decision.
Practice Areas
4
Practice Areas
Fees and Rates
Cost
Hourly Rates
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
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Chat withLicenses
Licensed in North Carolina for 12 years
State: North Carolina
Acquired: 2013
No misconduct found
Location
The Law Office of Richard J. Luptak
515 S Dekalb Street, Shelby, NC, 28150
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Chelsea Michelle Chapman's Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 33 client reviews from Avvo
Posted by anonymous | September 30, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
I didn’t have to stand alone.
Abusive divorce complete with restraining orders and all the things that raise anxiety and fear. She came along side and fought for my kids, for my sanity, and for me. Won custody, won extra decision making power, and won at protecting my peace. Would never choose anyone else.
Posted by Tessa | September 30, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
THE BEST HANDS DOWN!
Our situation had so many different moving parts that needed timeliness, and a team who knew what they were doing. They communicated every step of the way to keep us prepared and grounded in next steps. What a beautiful adoption process they walked with us through and really saw us as people, not a p...
Posted by Teresa | May 7, 2024 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Highly recommend!!
I had a fantastic experience with Chelsea Chapman. From start to finish, they provided exceptional service. Chelsea Chapman and the team were professional, knowledgeable, and always kept me informed throughout the process. They handled my case with care and expertise, and I couldn't be happier with t...
Posted by anonymous | December 22, 2023 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Wasted Time that can never be made up...
Chelsea Chapman failed miserably in representing a family members. After trying to work with her for 2 years she just stopped all communications then lied to my family saying she was in the hospital. It was such a blanten lie that the firm she worked for gave us a refund. Motions were not filed, a...
Posted by anonymous | December 21, 2023 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Thorough and Detail Oriented Attorney
Chelsea went above and beyond to help me with my case. She is extremely detail oriented, intelligent and overall a wonderful person to work with. When going through contracts, she made sure to explain things in a way that I understood all information present which I am so thankful for. She also had s...
Chelsea Michelle Chapman's Lawyer Endorsements
"Chelsea is a spectacular attorney, teacher, and friend. The compassion that she feels for her clients is unparalleled. Whether she's handling an estate matter or a family law matter, her exceptional attention to detail ensures that she always knows the best way to proceed with your case. She has a knack for starting a case off in a way that sets her clients up for success later on, especially with complicated financial or equitable distribution cases. Her intelligence and experience in family law and estate planning is an asset to all of her clients."
"Chelsea is an all-around fantastic Family Law Attorney. She constantly strives to be an expert and grow in all fields related to family law, including adoptions and estates. She has the knowledge and experience to skillfully navigate you through any legal matter. Chelsea is a sharp tool you want on your side no matter the issue."
"Chelsea is an incredible attorney who is passionate and fights hard for her clients. She is extremely well-versed in all aspects of family law, including adoptions and trusts/estates work. She is the perfect hit to help you with your family law needs!"
"Chelsea is the queen of Adoption law. International or domestic, private or through public services, step-parent or new parents, she knows it all! If there's an issue, Chelsea will work diligently and effectively to resolve it. Her research skills are incredible, but her interpersonal skills are even better! If you want someone who will truly care for you and your family, Chelsea is the attorney for you!"
"Chelsea genuinely cares about her clients and seeks to achieve the best possible outcome for them. She is very meticulous and stays current on the law in her field. I would highly recommend Chelsea to anyone seeking a skilled family law attorney."
"Chelsea is someone who uses all of her assets and skills to achieve the best results for her clients. Not only do her clients love her, but attorneys in the community and even opposing parties do not seem to be immune to her considerable charms. Chelsea thrives when challenged and truly shines when presented with something novel and difficult."
"I am impressed with Ms. Chapman's thoughtful advice and answers to legal questions on Avvo. She has an in-depth understanding of the law and an ability to communicate legal concepts clearly and effectively. I endorse this lawyer!"
"Chelsea Michelle Chapman is prompt, thorough, and dedicated to her clients. I would recommend her services to anyone looking for representation in a child custody law matter."
"Chelsea is a compassionate attorney who is also an excellent advocate for her clients inside and outside of court. I would recommend Chelsea to anyone in need of a family law attorney."
"One of my favorite people is also one of my favorite lawyers. Ms. Chapman, a confident trial attorney, provides her clients with the type of A+ representation they expect. I am proud to endorse Ms. Chapman."
"I have seen Ms. Chapman conduct trials; she is a fierce litigator who has a huge heart. I highly recommend Ms. Chapman."
"Chelsea is a very well respected family law attorney. Her optimism is perfectly combined with her zealous advocacy for her clients. I endorse this lawyer."
"I highly endorse Chelsea. She has such an optimistic outlook about family law and that enthusiasm to help others serves her clients well. She has an abundance of confidence and courtroom skill that relaxes her clients because they know that she has their backs."
"Chelsea is a dedicated attorney, who always wants to provide representation she knows people deserve. She is extremely professional has a passion for her profession. Chelsea also has invaluable experience in the court room."
"Chelsea is a knowledgeable, hard-working, and dedicated attorney. She truly cares about the well-being of her clients and the outcomes of their cases. I would recommend Chelsea to anyone looking for a divorce and separation attorney."
"I've known Attorney Chapman for several years. She is a knowledgeable and experienced Family Law practitioner, and an attorney I have frequently called upon to consult on a family law issue."
"I endorse this lawyer. Chelsea is professional, intelligent and personable. She has a passion for the profession and her clients."
"Chelsea is a dedicated attorney with complete respect for her client's and their needs in some of the most trying times of their lives. Chelsea has a strong understanding of the law and the impact that it has on her client's day-to-day lives - she is a superior attorney and well-respected by her colleagues in the bar."
"Attorney Chapman is a rising star in the Family Law world. Her rare combination of expertise, commitment, and zealous advocacy benefit her clients tremendously."
"Chelsea is energetic, knowledgeable, and is a good advocate for her clients."
Kisha Patel
Child custody lawyer
Shelby Hudspith
Family lawyer
Allie Moore
Divorce and separation lawyer
Joy Chappell
Divorce and separation lawyer
Kimberly Herron
Divorce and separation lawyer
Danielle Walle
Divorce and separation lawyer
Andria Marquez
Family lawyer
Joshua Ortega
Criminal defense lawyer
Windy Ortega
Criminal defense lawyer
Sean McIlveen
Divorce and separation lawyer
Angela McIlveen
Family lawyer
Shanna Rivera
Family lawyer
Tara Harrawood
Divorce and separation lawyer
Charles Henry
Employment and labor lawyer
Robert Ingalls
Litigation lawyer
Shannon Pearce
Litigation lawyer
Cassandra Strunk
Divorce and separation lawyer
Charles Hinnant
Litigation lawyer
Brendan Manning
Criminal defense lawyer
Valerie Hein Hunter
Criminal defense lawyer
Experience
Honors
2018
Legal Elite - Family Law, Business North Carolina
2017
Legal Elite - Family Law, Business North Carolina
2017
ABA Family Law Trial Advocacy Program, National Institute for Trial Advocacy
2016
Legal Elite - Family Law, Business North Carolina
2016
"10 Best" Family Law Attorneys in North Carolina, American Institute of Family Law Attorneys
2016
"10 Best" 2 Years Client Satisfaction, American Institute of Family Law Attorneys
2015
"10 Best" Family Law Attorneys in North Carolina, American Institute of Family Law Attorneys
2013
Student Trial Advocacy Competition Semi-Finalist, American Association for Justice
2013
Trial Advocacy Team, Charlotte School of Law
2011
Interschool Trial Competition Quarter-finalist, Charlotte School of Law
Work Experience
2015 - Present
Associate Attorney, McIlveen Family Law Firm
2013 - 2015
Associate Attorney, The Law Office of Stephen M. Corby
2012 - 2012
Extern, Mecklenburg County Public Defender's Office
2009 - 2009
Investigator, Pubic Defender Service for the District of Columbia
Associations
2016 - Present
Charlotte Women AttorneysAttorney Member
2016 - Present
American Institute of Family Law AttorneysAttorney Member
2016 - Present
Charlotte Chamber of CommerceMember
2015 - Present
Gaston County Bar AssociationAttorney Member
2014 - Present
Mecklenburg County Bar, Family Law SectionAttorney Member
2013 - Present
Mecklenburg County Bar AssociationAttorney Member
2013 - Present
North Carolina State BarAttorney Member
2013 - Present
North Carolina Bar AssociationAttorney Member
2013 - Present
North Carolina Bar Association, Family Law SectionAttorney Member
2013 - Present
North Carolina Bar Association, Young Lawyers DivisionAttorney Member
2013 - Present
American Bar AssociationAttorney Member
2013 - Present
American Bar Association, Young Lawyers DivisionAttorney Member
2012 - 2013
Student Bar AssociationSocial Chair
2011 - 2013
Delta Theta Phi FraternityStudent Member
2010 - 2013
American Bar Association, Law Student DivisionStudent Member
Sample of Legal Cases
Henderson v. Wittig, 2021-NCCOA-296
Won - Vacated and remanded
Education
2013
Charlotte School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
2010
Appalachian State University
BA - Bachelor of Arts
Publications
2019
McIlveen Family Law Firm Blog
Get Your Affairs in Order
2019
McIlveen Family Law Firm Blog
Do I Really Need an Estate Plan?
2019
McIlveen Family Law Firm Blog
Protect Your Child’s Inheritance
2019
McIlveen Family Law Firm Blog
IRA Fit Your Estate Plan?
2019
McIlveen Family Law Firm Blog
How A Living Trust Helps Your Family
2019
McIlveen Family Law Firm Blog
Happy 18th Birthday! Now What?
2019
McIlveen Family Law Firm Blog
Will vs. Trust: Which is Right for You?
2019
McIlveen Family Law Firm Blog
3 Asset Protection Tips You Can Use Now
2017
McIlveen Family Law Firm Blog
My Spouse is Cheating... Now What?
2016
McIlveen Family Law Firm Blog
Calling All Homewreckers
2016
McIlveen Family Law Firm Blog
Green Cards, Marriage, and Divorce, Oh My!
2015
McIlveen Family Law Firm Blog
Annulment Myths Debunked
2015
McIlveen Family Law Firm Blog
Why Do I Have to Pay Child Support if I have Joint Custody?
2015
McIlveen Family Law Firm Blog
Friendly Advice for Meddling Mother-in-Laws
2015
McIlveen Family Law Firm Blog
Legal Lessons from Kanye West
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Answers
Q&A
Do I have grounds to request more custody of my child?
24 Apr 2023
Q&A
Does biological parent have to be notified in Johnston County NC adult adoption, does adult adoptee have to be physically there?
07 Jun 2022
Q&A
Can I be ordered to take a drug test after my ex was asked by the judge if he wanted me tested and he said no?
26 May 2022