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.
Languages spoken
English
State | Status | Acquired | Updated |
---|---|---|---|
NC | Active | 2013 | 06/23/2022 |
Legal answers | 148 |
Legal guides | 0 |
Award name | Grantor | Date Granted |
---|---|---|
Legal Elite - Family Law | Business North Carolina | 2018 |
Legal Elite - Family Law | Business North Carolina | 2017 |
ABA Family Law Trial Advocacy Program | National Institute for Trial Advocacy | 2017 |
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 | 2016 |
"10 Best" Family Law Attorneys in North Carolina | American Institute of Family Law Attorneys | 2015 |
Student Trial Advocacy Competition Semi-Finalist | American Association for Justice | 2013 |
Trial Advocacy Team | Charlotte School of Law | 2013 |
Interschool Trial Competition Quarter-finalist | Charlotte School of Law | 2011 |
Title | Company name | Duration |
---|---|---|
Associate Attorney | McIlveen Family Law Firm | 2015 - Present |
Associate Attorney | The Law Office of Stephen M. Corby | 2013 - 2015 |
Extern | Mecklenburg County Public Defender's Office | 2012 - 2012 |
Investigator | Pubic Defender Service for the District of Columbia | 2009 - 2009 |
Association name | Position name | Duration |
---|---|---|
Charlotte Women Attorneys | Attorney Member | 2016 - Present |
American Institute of Family Law Attorneys | Attorney Member | 2016 - Present |
Charlotte Chamber of Commerce | Member | 2016 - Present |
Gaston County Bar Association | Attorney Member | 2015 - Present |
Mecklenburg County Bar, Family Law Section | Attorney Member | 2014 - Present |
Mecklenburg County Bar Association | Attorney Member | 2013 - Present |
North Carolina State Bar | Attorney Member | 2013 - Present |
North Carolina Bar Association | Attorney Member | 2013 - Present |
North Carolina Bar Association, Family Law Section | Attorney Member | 2013 - Present |
North Carolina Bar Association, Young Lawyers Division | Attorney Member | 2013 - Present |
American Bar Association | Attorney Member | 2013 - Present |
American Bar Association, Young Lawyers Division | Attorney Member | 2013 - Present |
Student Bar Association | Social Chair | 2012 - 2013 |
Delta Theta Phi Fraternity | Student Member | 2011 - 2013 |
American Bar Association, Law Student Division | Student Member | 2010 - 2013 |
Publication name | Title | Date |
---|---|---|
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 | 2019 |
McIlveen Family Law Firm Blog | My Spouse is Cheating... Now What? | 2017 |
McIlveen Family Law Firm Blog | Calling All Homewreckers | 2016 |
McIlveen Family Law Firm Blog | Green Cards, Marriage, and Divorce, Oh My! | 2016 |
McIlveen Family Law Firm Blog | Legal Lessons from Kanye West | 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 |
School name | Degree | Graduated |
---|---|---|
Charlotte School of Law | JD - Juris Doctor | 2013 |
Appalachian State University | BA - Bachelor of Arts | 2010 |
Case name | Outcome |
---|---|
Henderson v. Wittig, 2021-NCCOA-296 | Won - Vacated and remanded |
Posted by anonymous
May 24, 2022
Posted by Emerald
September 1, 2021
Posted by anonymous
August 27, 2021
Posted by Catherine
March 19, 2020
Posted by Amie
March 28, 2019
Posted by Chris
March 20, 2019
Posted by Brandi
March 19, 2019
Posted by Ron
September 29, 2018
Posted by anonymous
September 28, 2018
Posted by Shannon
August 2, 2018
Shayna Matheny, Estate planning Attorney on Nov 18, 2021
Relationship: Co-worker
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.
Shelby Hudspith, Family Attorney on Aug 17, 2021
Relationship: Co-worker
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.
Shayna Matheny, Estate planning Attorney on Nov 18, 2021
Relationship: Co-worker
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.
Shelby Hudspith, Family Attorney on Aug 17, 2021
Relationship: Co-worker
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.
Kisha Patel, Family Attorney on Aug 17, 2021
Relationship: Co-worker
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!
Allie Moore, Adoption Attorney on Apr 4, 2018
Relationship: Co-worker
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!
Joy Chappell, Family Attorney on Feb 19, 2018
Relationship: Co-worker
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.
Danielle Brudi, Child custody Attorney on Sep 5, 2017
Relationship: Worked together on matter
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.
Andrew Dickens, Unknown Attorney on May 26, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
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!
Gary Anderson, Child custody Attorney on Apr 11, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
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.
Andria Marquez, Divorce and separation Attorney on Dec 8, 2016
Relationship: Co-worker
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.
Joshua Ortega, Family Attorney on May 24, 2016
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
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.
Windy Ortega, Family Attorney on May 24, 2016
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
I have seen Ms. Chapman conduct trials; she is a fierce litigator who has a huge heart. I highly recommend Ms. Chapman.
Ross Russell, Unknown Attorney on Apr 15, 2016
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
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.
Sean McIlveen, Family Attorney on Jan 8, 2016
Relationship: Supervised 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.
Shanna Rivera, Family Attorney on Dec 9, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
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.
Tara Harrawood, Divorce and separation Attorney on Dec 7, 2015
Relationship: Co-worker
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.
Robert Corbett, Family Attorney on Sep 25, 2015
Relationship: Other
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.
Ashley Craven, Family Attorney on Aug 21, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
I endorse this lawyer. Chelsea is professional, intelligent and personable. She has a passion for the profession and her clients.
Charles Henry, Family Attorney on Aug 21, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
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.
Robert Ingalls, Family Attorney on Aug 20, 2015
Relationship: Friend
Attorney Chapman is a rising star in the Family Law world. Her rare combination of expertise, commitment, and zealous advocacy benefit her clients tremendously.
Jason Shoemaker, Family Attorney on Aug 18, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
Chelsea is energetic, knowledgeable, and is a good advocate for her clients.
Cash, Check, Credit Card