It is hard to express in words how grateful I am of Ms. Samano and her services. From the moment she took me on as a client to the moment the case ended, she continued to instill confidence in me and lift me up during one of my most trying times. She is a fighter, knowledgeable in her craft, and she worked hard to get me not only what was wanted but what was needed. I am over satisfied with the outcome.
Attorney Samano is a strong advocate of mediation and arbitration when it comes to resolving issues in child custody. These non-adversarial methods are advantage in time and cost for clients when compared to going to court.
Child custody determinations are an automatic fallout of a divorce proceeding and very common legally. However, that by no means makes them a simple process to go through. You'll want Attorney Samano on your side. Give her a call.
Couples may decide to file for a legal separation for a variety of reasons. They may need time to determine the custodial and financial arrangements for the family before actually filing for a divorce or there may be religious objections to divorce.
From the time your child was young, you knew that they weren’t perfect. Making mistakes is normal and a part of growing up. Little good can come from your child spending time in a juvenile detention. Let Attorney Samano help. Call today.
Ms. Samano is a graduate of The University of Nebraska-Lincoln (B.A. 2003) and The Valparaiso University School of Law (J.D., 2007) where she concentrated in the school’s Mock Trial team and the Death Penalty Clinic. Ms. Samano was admitted to the Tennessee Bar in 2008 and has also been admitted to practice before the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee. She is a member of the Knoxville Bar Association and the Tennessee Bar Association. In the community, Ms. Samano previously served as the Chair for the Latino Task Force and a board member of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of East Tennessee.Â
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Ms. Samano is married to Charles D. Waller of Powell, Tennessee and has two children. Ms. Samano makes her home in Fountain City, Tennessee.
Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.
Posted by Joshua | November 11, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thank you, Vanessa!
It is hard to express in words how grateful I am of Ms. Samano and her services. From the moment she took me on as a client to the moment the case ended, she continued to instill confidence in me and lift me up during one of my most trying times. She is a fighter, knowledgeable in her craft, and she worked hard to get me not only what was wanted but what was needed. I am over satisfied with the outcome.
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Posted by Meredith | June 17, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Awesome!
Used for a custody issue, and she was awesome! Pretty much got what I asked for.
Posted by anonymous | November 4, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The best there is for Custody cases
Vanessa Samano is simply the best there is for child custody cases, specifically high conflict. I would highly recommend Vanessa for any type of divorce or family law case, but specifically if you have a need for representation for Juvenile Court. Vanessa has the relationships with the courts, judges, and other attorneys across East Tennessee. She is highly respected and knows the law, but mostly she cares about the families she represents. I could not have asked for someone who believed in me and my case more. She will be honest, even when it's not what you want to hear. She will encourage you to always do the right thing and to not just check boxes but legitimately follow through.
Vanessa helped me navigate a complex divorce followed by a difficult custody case in which I obtained primary custody. As a single Dad, this was not easy even though the facts were in my favor. My advice, without reservation, is to not just hire Vanessa Samano, but to listen to her and do what she says. If you are not willing to be honest or take responsibility, Vanessa is not for you. However, if you want someone to help you navigate a complex system in an honest but tough and caring way that puts the best interest of children first, then Vanessa is right for you. She will continue to be my choice for representation in all future custody matters, and has already been recommended to several friends and family members.
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Posted by Rhonda and Joe | June 22, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent
From our first phone call to the office, till our last court appearance Vanessa and everyone in the office was wonderful. Every call, email, and meeting, we were made to feel our case was the most important thing not only to us but them. Every question we had was answered in a timely fashion. Custody matters are scary, but Vanessa and team gave us confidence, and real expectations. We would absolutely recommend and use Vanessa to anyone going through custody matters.
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Posted by Allison | June 11, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Attorney!
Vanessa is wonderful! She gets into the details, provides council, and will lay out best case / worst case situations - then you make your decision. I have been with Vanessa for years and am glad she represented me. I recommend Vanessa to anyone in need of a family law attorney.
Posted by Therese' | April 11, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Phenomenal attorney!
Vanessa was always extremely professional, worked well with all parties involved and handled our case brilliantly. She didn’t bill unnecessarily and always replied promptly. I wish I had hired her sooner and would absolutely recommend her and Ms. Donna for your family law needs.
Posted by anonymous | February 5, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The one you want beside you
I can’t tell you how lost I was during my divorce. It lasted over 2 years, but when I hired Vanessa, she swooped in and answered all my questions and made sure that we get things settled once and for all. She helped me with a restraining order, my divorce, custody, child support and relocation. I am more than happy and relieved with what Vanessa accomplished for me and my children, on top of making sure I was standing my ground. I can’t recommend anyone else.
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Posted by Ginger | December 16, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding legal team
Vanessa Samano and her legal team are the absolute best there is in Knoxville TN. She went above and beyond for our child support/ custody case. Everyone in her office is very kind and make you feel like you are the only client. Not only does she stay two steps ahead of everything on your case she is also very respected by the judges and she truly cares. Would recommend everytime!!!
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Posted by Emily | September 18, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
She’s a Real Life Wonder Woman
Vanessa was so easy to work with. She listened and offered advice even when I felt like I had stupid questions. She was understanding and devoted. She was always timely with her responses and never made me feel I was making a wrong choice. She always left the ball in my court to make a final decision after explaining pros and cons. She and her staff are just incredible. They all made what could have been a very difficult and emotional time as smooth and pain free as possible. I’m so thankful I had them by side through everything!
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Posted by anonymous | August 6, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Thankful
Vanessa Samano provided professional, expert advice, added with compassion, understanding and heart. During the most difficult time she listened, evaluated and put a plan into action quickly. She is unmatched in being available for communication and emergencies. Her thoroughness and expertise brought our best outcome. We are beyond thankful and consider her a hero and friend.
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Posted by anonymous | June 26, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Helped make a horrible situation pleasant
I came to her shattered with no clue of how to proceed. She helped me understand what was happening in my life.
And walked me through the steps of moving forward. Hiring Vanessa was a blessing, she explained every detail and was incredible.
Posted by Kasey | June 11, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I highly recommend Mrs. Samano!
She is quick, thorough, efficient, and brilliant! I had a very difficult ex who’s parents tried to help him take my kids when they found out I was getting remarried (after him not being around or involved for over 5 years). They filed false motions, false DCS reports of abuse, etc...Mrs. Samano helped me tremendously. I was very scared when everything started. She reassured me and I just kept my proof and sent it to her. She was swift and only filed what needed to be filed. She did not get petty with my exes attorneys (he went thru several and they were very eager to file false claims and try to deflect). Vanessa Samano helped me keep full custody, alimony, and child support. Most importantly, she helped me keep my kids safe and in a good, loving, family home.
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Posted by Joanna | March 10, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Life saver!
I came to Vanessa broken and scared and she guided me, strengthened me, and protected me. She is skillful, tough, and also kindhearted. I would have been lost and in deep financial trouble without her advocating for me and making sure that I didn’t settle for less just to be done. I truly am grateful to her and Ms. Donna!
Posted by Jennifer | February 24, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Experience
During this difficult time Vanessa's expertise and professionalism helped to make the transition positive! She understood my needs even before I had a chance to communicate them to her! I highly recommend her although I hope to never need a divorce attorney again. Vanessa and her staff were excellent!
Posted by Ed | January 14, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent
Superb knowledge of the law. Her and her office staff are excellent! Everyone was always there to answer any questions I had and explain everything to me.
Posted by Eva | March 11, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Fantastic lawyer!
When I first met Ms.Samano I was literally crying on my way to her office. I was in the middle of a long and ugly divorce that had me feeling trapped and hopeless. I was referred to her by another lawyer who doesn’t deal with family law but told me she is an outstanding lawyer and 15 minutes after meeting her I knew why. I hired her on the spot and it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made! I had a complicated divorce case and by the end of it, we were dealing with 4 separate cases; I’m talking DCS and order of protection amongst other things and Ms.Samano was there for me through it all. She handled my cases with calm, professionalism and no drama. I would call or email and get a response that same day. She and her team were on it and restored my hope. By the end of it, she got me all that I wanted and needed for my kids. I am forever thankful for her help and hard work. Thank you, Ms. Samano!
I highly recommend her.
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Posted by anonymous | December 21, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very professional
Ms. Samano was very professional and prepared, she worked really hard on my stressful child custody case. I enjoyed working with her and her staff very much. I would definitely recommend her! She is personable and great to be around. She also was willing to travel about an hour away for our hearings. I can't thank her enough.
Posted by Beth | December 11, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Fabulous!!!!
Mrs. Samano knew that we had a challenge ahead of us and immediately took action for me to be able to see my daughter again! Within a 6-9 month I was not only able to get supervised visits but i regained joint custody! Mrs. Samano was very attentive to me and my case! I will always recommend and use Mrs. Samano. The staff was also friendly, attentive, and caring!
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Posted by anonymous | November 30, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Phenomenal attorney and office staff.
Great attorney and office staff. They worked numerous of hours during the week, weekend and holidays. Might I add even during her personal vacation she was still do work on my behalf. I highly recommended and could not have been more pleased to have someone in my corner to represent me with her expertise and dedication.
Posted by Ben | November 19, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Father who fought a tough battle
She fought for me and was there when I needed her. She is the best in Knoxville. She does not like to play dirty and doesn't do immoral or unethical things. I now consider her a friend. There is not a better lawyer than Vanessa Samano. Period.
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Divorce and separation Attorney | Oct 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Vanessa and I don't handle the same type of cases but occasionally we refer clients to the other. She's sharp and always gives her clients great advice. She also knows her way around the courthouse and how to handle a mediation to get the best deal for her client. I recommend her to you."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Sep 22
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Vanessa is a skilled and energetic attorney who truly goes the second mile for her clients . I have worked opposite her and as co-counsel, and highly recommend her to any client needing assistance in family law matters."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Mar 11
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Vanessa is a fantastic attorney who advocates relentlessly for every client. We have been on opposite sides numerous times and her professionalism, compassion, and knowledge is impressive. She is always straight forward and honest."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Mar 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I have worked with Ms. Samano on multiple cases during the course of my employment with Child Support Services. She was always prepared and a great advocate for her clients. I would recommend her to a family member without hesitation."
Child support Attorney | Jan 28
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Vanessa and I were opposing counsel in a post divorce child support modification/contempt case. We communicated well prior to the trial date, exchanged our client's documentary evidence in advance, evaluated our positions, and were able to counsel our clients to a reasonable agreement prior to the hearing. Many attorneys do not take the time to work a case like that and it made a difference for both of our clients."
Child custody Attorney | Sep 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"What I appreciate about Ms. Samano is her attention to detail, her willingness to problem solve, rather than simply beating up on other people, her willingness to beat up on people who deserve it, the fact that she truly cares about her clients and about upholding the standards of our profession. She is one of my favorite lawyers to work with, and work against."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Jan 19
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Vanessa is respected for her integrity, professionalism and advocacy for her clients. Anyone needing help on a family law matter will be well-served by Vanessa Samano."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Jan 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Vanessa Samano is a fantastic lawyer. She is relentless when it comes to fighting for her clients' interests. Vanessa is also an extraordinarily good person who truly cares about her clients' concerns and listens to what is important to them. Without hesitation, I would recommend Vanessa to any family member or loved one who was in search of a divorce or child custody lawyer who is truly dedicated to the best interests of her clients."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Nov 17
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Vanessa for some time and have always enjoyed working with her. She is not only able to make her clients feel comfortable and at ease with her representation, but she also is able to work well with opposing counsel(s) in her cases in order to reach the best resolution for all of the parties involved."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Sep 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Vanessa is a top-notch attorney. She has several years of complex and detailed divorce work experience and I would completely trust her with my divorce/separation issue. She is aggressive, hard-working, and looks out for her clients.
She is also fluent in Spanish, which sets her apart from other attorneys in the area."
Family Attorney | Sep 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. Vanessa is a hard working, diligent, and aggressive advocate for her clients' needs and interests. I would readily recommend her to anyone needing her services."