Elizabeth Drotning Hartwell

Elizabeth is an attorney at Best & Flanagan LLP in Minneapolis. Her practice is focused exclusively on family law, including divorce, child custody, child support, post-decree matters, domestic violence, and third party custody.

Elizabeth is a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), comprised of the top family law attorneys in the nation who are recognized as having the highest levels of knowledge, skill, and integrity. Elizabeth is also a Qualified Neutral under Rule 114 of the Minnesota General Rules of Practice and has frequently worked as a Parenting Consultant, custody evaluator, and court-appointed neutral. A skilled writer and negotiator, she enjoys crafting creative solutions and is always prepared to advocate for her clients and their children both in and out of the courtroom. 

Elizabeth graduated cum laude from St. Olaf College and earned her J.D. from the University of St. Thomas, where she was an editor of the Law Journal. She is currently serving her second term on the University of St. Thomas School Alumni Advisory Board.

Elizabeth previously practiced at Heimerl & Lammers. Before moving her practice to Minnesota, she practiced family law for nearly 12 years in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where she was Managing Partner of her former firm. She is experienced at handling parental child abduction cases and is a member of the International Child Abduction Attorney Network and the Association of Family & Conciliation Courts. Elizabeth is also trained in collaborative divorce.

In her spare time, Elizabeth enjoys spending time with her family and is a freelance singer and cellist. She also serves on the Boards of Directors of Cantus and Lutheran Summer Music.