Vanessa Samano

PRO

Vanessa Samano

5.0
Rating: 9.7

Licensed for 17 years

Child custody Lawyer at Knoxville, TN
Practice Areas: Child Custody, Divorce & Separation, Juvenile, Child Support

1430 Island Home Avenue, Knoxville, TN

About Vanessa

Biography

Dedication. Compassion. Efficiency. Call Today.

Practice Areas

4

Practice Areas

Child Custody 25%

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.

25%
Child Support 25%

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.

25%
Divorce and Separation 25%

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.

25%
Juvenile Law 25%

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.

25%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Retainer

Always


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2020 2018 2017
...
+ 2

Licenses

Licensed in Tennessee for 17 years

State: Tennessee

Acquired: 2008

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Law Offices of Vanessa Samano

1430 Island Home Avenue, Knoxville, TN, 37902

www.samanofamilylaw.com

Vanessa Samano's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

67 Client Reviews

5 star (66) 4 star (1)
3 star (0)
2 star (0)
1 star (0)

Posted by anonymous | November 4, 2022 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this 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, judg...es, 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.

Posted by Rhonda and Joe | June 22, 2021 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this 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. Custod...y 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.

Posted by Allison | June 11, 2021 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this 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 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this 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 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this 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.

See All Client Reviews

Vanessa Samano's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Vanessa
Edwin Arnold Anderson headshot
Edwin Anderson

Divorce and separation lawyer | 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."

Lyndon Clay White headshot
Lyndon White

Divorce and separation lawyer | 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."

Caitlin Flannery Markham Elledge headshot
Caitlin Elledge

Divorce and separation lawyer | Sep 06

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Vanessa is great to work with, very knowledgeable, and a terrific advocate for her clients."

Lauren Ruth Biloski headshot
Lauren Biloski

Divorce and separation lawyer | 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."

Andrew Nicholas Wilson headshot
Andrew Wilson

Divorce and separation lawyer | 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."

Cort Sikes headshot
Cort Sikes

Child support lawyer | 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."

Margaret Held headshot
Margaret Held

Child custody lawyer | 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."

Sean Lewis headshot
Sean Lewis

Juvenile law lawyer | Feb 10

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. She was very professional in court. A pleasure to work with."

Kevin Wayne Shepherd headshot
Kevin Shepherd

Divorce and separation lawyer | 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."

Marcos M. Garza headshot
Marcos Garza

Divorce and separation lawyer | 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."

Rachel Suzanne Lambert headshot
Rachel Lambert

Divorce and separation lawyer | Jan 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Samano is an excellent choice for your divorce or child custody case. She is honest, compassionate, and hardworking."

Daniel Vincent Parish headshot
Daniel Parish

Unknown lawyer | Jan 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Vanessa is an extremely well-respected lawyer in the East Tennessee Community."

Laura Elizabeth Metcalf headshot
Laura Metcalf

Child custody lawyer | Dec 30

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have worked with her many times, and she is very knowledgeable and compassionate with her clients."

Mital Devendra Patel headshot
Mital Patel

Divorce and separation lawyer | 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."

Joseph Harvey White Jr. headshot
Joseph White

Divorce and separation lawyer | 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."

Alex David Brinson headshot
Alex Brinson

Family lawyer | 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."

View All Endorsements
Caitlin Flannery Markham Elledge headshot
Caitlin Elledge

Child custody lawyer

Lyndon Clay White headshot
Lyndon White

Divorce and separation lawyer

Melanie Jones Hogg headshot
Melanie Hogg

Child custody lawyer

Channing Romane Miller headshot
Channing Miller

Divorce and separation lawyer

Lauren Ruth Biloski headshot
Lauren Biloski

Divorce and separation lawyer

Cort Sikes headshot
Cort Sikes

Family lawyer

Joshua Stephen Reed headshot
Joshua Reed

Divorce and separation lawyer

Kevin Wayne Shepherd headshot
Kevin Shepherd

Family lawyer

Joseph Michael Roberts headshot
Joseph Roberts

Criminal defense lawyer

Michelle Louvre Spezia headshot
Michelle Spezia

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer

Grace Ingrid Gardiner headshot
Grace Gardiner

Immigration lawyer

Sean Lewis headshot
Sean Lewis

Immigration lawyer

Marcos M. Garza headshot
Marcos Garza

DUI and DWI lawyer

Daniel Vincent Parish headshot
Daniel Parish

Family lawyer

Rachel Suzanne Lambert headshot
Rachel Lambert

Family lawyer

Juan Antonio Perez Jr. headshot
Juan Perez

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer

Julia Ann Spannaus headshot
Julia Spannaus

Juvenile law lawyer

Shelley Suzanne Breeding headshot
Shelley Breeding

Divorce and separation lawyer

Lisa Anne White headshot
Lisa White

Adoption lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.7 (Superb)

Honors

2019

Top Attorney-Family Law/Divorce/Child Support, CityView Magazine

2018

2018 Mid-South Rising Stars, Super Lawyers

2018

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2017

Top 10% in the USA (Family & Divorce), Lawyers of Distinction

2017

Best Child Support Lawyers in Knoxville, Expertise

2017

2017 Mid-South Rising Stars, Super Lawyers

2017

Top Attorney-Family Law/Divorce/Child Support, CityView Magazine

2017

10 Best Law Firm, American Institute of Family Law Attorneys

2017

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2016

Top Attorney-Family Law/Divorce/Child Support, CityView Magazine

2016

Top Female Attorney, American Institute of Family Law Attorneys

2006

Best Opening Statement, Valparaiso School of Law-Mock Trial Team

2002

Minority Academic Scholar Recipient, University of Nebraska, Lincoln

Work Experience

2014 - Present

Owner, Vanessa Samano, Attorney at Law

2009 - 2014

Associate Attorney, The English Law Firm

2008 - 2009

Associate, Linda G. Welch & Associates

2007 - 2007

Clerk, Curtis & Arata

2006 - 2006

Clerk, California Rural Legal Assistance

Associations

2016 - Present

American Bar Association

Member

2014 - Present

Tennessee Bar Association

Member

2008 - Present

Knoxville Bar Association

Member

2008 - Present

Latino Task Force of East TN

Member

Education

2007

Valparaiso University School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

2003

University of Nebraska, Lincoln

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2017

Law Practice Today

Solo Small Firm Practice Idea Exchange

2016

University of Tennessee Legal Clinic

Family Law/Custody- Know Your Rights

2014

Smokey Mountain Paralegal Association

Issues in Family Law

Languages

Spanish

English

Activity

Avvo Rating

Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not.

What determines Avvo Rating?
  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • Discipline Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution