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Dawn Anne Renken

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Avvo Rating8.9
  • Houston, TX
  • Licensed for 17 years
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About Dawn

I am an accomplished traveler, having lived places from South Dakota to Texas to Geneva, Switzerland, where I studied international law abroad. I graduated from the University of Texas in 1997 with a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy. I attended Ohio Northern Law School on a Barrister scholarship, where I earned my Juris Doctorate in 2003, graduating with distinction, in the top ten percent of my class.

 I had a successful law school career, participating in Moot Court, becoming a Moot Court Associate Judge and the National Trial Competition Team Coach; eventually sitting as one of the esteemed Moot Court Board of Advocates. I earned almost every academic accolade awarded in law school, including being invited to become a member of the prestigious Order of Barristers and Willis Society. After earning the A+ Book Award in Criminal Law, I was asked to work as the Criminal Law teaching assistant to the incoming class. My grade point average was high enough to earn a position as an Associate Editor of the Ohio Northern Law Review, later graduating sixth in my class.

I have published two law articles, one on campaign finance reform laws, one on the First Amendment.

Prior to law school, I worked in accounting and business, developing a keen business acumen and knowledge of accounting that has been invaluable in my law career. In my free time, I enjoy running marathons and participating in triathlons, successfully completing a 70.3 Ironman in 2010 and 2011. I also enjoy spending time with my dog Misty, who graduated with top honors in Agility Training.  I recently adopted a pit bull mix, Sabine, who I discovered with friends with a broken leg on one of my training runs.

I am certified as an Amicus Attorney, a Guardian Ad Litem and an Attorney Ad Litem through the Children’s Friend in Court Program in Harris County. I am an active member of the Houston Bar Association, including its Family Law section. I help in my community through volunteering with the Houston Bar Association and various other organizations.

Practice areas

MediationDivorce and separationFamily
  1. Family: 40%

    Divorce; Representation at Temporary Orders hearings; Common Law Marriages; Separation and Divorce planning to ensure that decisions made in haste do not affect the outcome of your case; Issue of net worth in divorce, including tracing, accurate valuation and characterization of all marital assets; Alimony and Spousal Maintenance; Child Custody, Child Support and visitation agreements; Family Violence and Protective Orders; Grandparents’ rights; Attorney General Support cases; Name change, etc.

  2. Divorce and separation: 40%

    Divorce; Representation at Temporary Orders hearings; Common Law Marriages; Separation and Divorce planning to ensure that decisions made in haste do not affect the outcome of your case; Issue of net worth in divorce, including tracing, accurate valuation and characterization of all marital assets; Alimony and Spousal Maintenance; Child Custody, Child Support and visitation agreements; Family Violence and Protective Orders; Grandparents’ rights; Attorney General Support cases; Name change, etc.

  3. Mediation: 20%

    Renken Law Firm now conducts mediations

Languages spoken

English

Photos and videos

3343874 1301976195

Contact

11500 NW Freeway
address map

11500 NW Freeway
#618
Houston, TX, 77092

Renken Law Firm

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
TXEligible To Practice In Texas 200312/05/2020
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers186
Legal guides0
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
Nation's Top One PercentThe National Association of Distinguished Counsel2015
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
Managing PartnerRenken Law Firm, PLLC2010 - Present
Managing PartnerVossler & Renken, PLLC2004 - 2010
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
Houston Bar Association, Family Law SectionMember2004 - Present
Publications
Publication nameTitleDate
29 Ohio N.U.L. Rev. 728Survey of Ohio Law: Ohio Supreme Court Decision: The State Ex Rel. Cincinnati Enquirer, Division2003
28 Ohio N.U.L. Rev. 495Federal Election Commission v. Colorado Republican Federal Campaign Committee2002
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
Ohio Northern University - Claude W. Pettit College of LawJD - Juris Doctor2003
University of TexasBA - Bachelor of Arts1997
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
Default Divorces in Harris CountyDefault Divorces in Harris County2012

Reviews

(48)
5 Star
79%
4 Star
2%
3 Star
2%
2 Star
2%
1 Star
15%
Review Dawn Renken

Dawn Renken will Win for you and is absolutely the Best!

Posted by

Dawn Renken is by far the best attorney I have ever hired. Dawn worked hard and won custody of my 2 girls for me. Dawn was tactical, perfectly prepared and dominate in court over the course of 10 + appearances. Dawn's courtroom prowess is undeniable as she was able take on 4 different attorneys over the course of 2 years and win. Dawn is professional and straight forward in direction to her clients so that they know what to expect and how to navigate the legal process. If your are looking for a tough, smart, agile and dominate lawyer....look no further. Hire Dawn!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Dawn Renken's response: Thank you Jason. It's so rewarding when you fight so hard for your clients and they recognize the sweat. It was a long battle, thank you for your kind words. There was never any doubt that this was going to be a fight all the way and you listened to my advice and we prevailed. It means a lot to me!

Best divorce lawyer in town

Posted by

I hired Dawn out of my search in Avvo and I was not disappointed. She not only knows the law in Texas like the palm of her hand, but most importantly knows the Courts in Harris County, the judges, and the procedures very well. She's a master of the rules of engagement in front of the judge and in my case practically destroyed the opposing counsel (politely and professionally) in Court proceedings. She's also very personable and fun to be around. My divorce case was handled expeditiously and successfully beyond my expectations. I strongly recommend you hire Dawn to represent you.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Dawn Renken's response: Thank you for your kind words Jorge. I don't think your case should have taken as long as it did, unfortunately as you know, you sometimes have to deal with the law and the emotional side. Unfortunately, the emotional side takes a little longer. I'm glad we got the outcome we were looking for.

Sit back and watch her work

Posted by

First let me say...do not go into a divorce without your own attorney!!! I almost waited too long to hire Dawn. While on the phone, she pulled the information on the courthouse records she told me to get in as soon as I could that afternoon. It wasn't what was stated in the paperwork it was the ambiguous terms that were used. Dawn is direct, aggressive, very busy which sometimes makes her hard to reach and a darn good negotiator. She knows her stuff. Don't go see her if you want a shrink...go to her if you want to be well represented. Make sure your expectations are realistic and you will do well. The "friendly" divorce paperwork was full of open ended statements that would have cost me more than my legally fair share. With that being said she warned me right from the beginning that we are now negotiating a business transaction not a friendly settlement. You can go back to friendly after the divorce is final. You have to take care of your interests and Dawn will do that for you in legalese if you let her. Sometimes you wonder where she is going in her logic... but just sit back, watch and listen...she knows what she is doing. I think if I had been as aggressive as she suggested I may have done better...but I couldn't let go of the relationship. Remember if you are enlisting the help of an attorney (Dawn)...your relationship is over...so let her get down to business. She is very good in mediation. She understands how to effectively work through the process. She should since she offers mediation services in her practice. I think the most impressive thing and the sign of a well respected attorney is when we went to the courthouse (unfortunately we had to go), she was known by many of the court employees, officials and other attorneys that were waiting for their time slot. If you are reading this I am sorry you are having to go through it...but I think Dawn is a good choice. By the way she was recommended to me by another satisfied client.
Dawn Renken's response: Thank you for the kind review Bob. Even if you don't think you need a lawyer, go talk to one who offers a free consult. When Bob came in, he thought the attorney representing his spouse had written up a "fair" agreement; however, the order was full of loopholes and items that could have cost Bob a lot of money that he was entitled to. I'm glad I could help.

Excellent Lawyer for Family Law

Posted by

Needing a divorce lawyer and not being able to drive to downtown Houston I researched for a firm near my home. . After reading the reviews about Dawn Renken I just sensed this lawyer was the one I needed. And boy did my intuition pay off! She has a laid back attitude but extremely professional in her ethics. Prices are reasonable ..goes the extra mile, even drove me to the court house knowing I could not drive. Divorce done in 63 days! You will definitely get your money's worth with Dawn Renken.
Dawn Renken's response: It was my pleasure Kathleen.

Highly Recommend Dawn!

Posted by

Dawn has helped me multiple times over the past several years with modifications to my out of state divorce decree. She is always willing to explain the facts and processes of our procedures so I am confident in the steps we are taking. Her top priority is always to protect my interests and my daughters well being. Her experience leaves her well versed in all the court procedures. She works very efficiently helping to keep my costs down. I will continue to trust her for any issues that come up. I highly recommend Dawn to anyone looking for a confident, competent and efficient lawyer.
Dawn Renken's response: Louisiana decrees are always interesting. Thank you so much Kelli. I'm here when you need me.

Great Lawyer in my Divorce Case

Posted by

I was referred to Dawn by a former colleague. I set up the initial appointment and was 1) happy to know that there was no fee for the initial consultation 2) felt very comfortable with her taking on my case after we met. Dawn was very honest and knowledgeable in all the details that we discussed surrounding my situation and I appreciated that. She was available whenever I had a question and responded to my emails in a timely manner.
Dawn Renken's response: Thank you Gabriela.

THE BEST OF THE BEST!

Posted by

Dawn has been an excellent attorney for me and my daughter. She has gone out if her way to get things done for my case and I couldn't ask for a better person to work with. She is looking for the best situation for my daughter. She always listens to everything I have to say with open ears and tells me why and why not the thing I ask for May or maynot be achievable. She's made this stressful, scary sisuation into a surprisingly easy experience! I recommend her to anyone that's looking for an attorney that will fight for the best for your child(ren)! And thank you Dawn for everything you've done for me and kamryn!
Dawn Renken's response: Thank you Ashley. I'm glad we could get everything you wanted!

Reliable, confident and aggressive! She's the best!

Posted by

Dawn Renken has been a true life-line for me! I was facing a divorce after an abusive marriage followed by a protective order against my ex, which left me feeling defeated and hopeless. After searching several weeks for an attorney, I was referred to Renken Law Firm. Ms. Renken was quick, aggressive and got me on back track, feeling confident about my future. Her top priority was the safety of me, my children and our financial stability. I HIGHLY recommend Dawn Renken!
Dawn Renken's response: Thank you for the kind review Heidi. I was so pleased to be able to help you and your kids. I'm here when you need me.

The Best attorney with your interest in mind and gets the job done

Posted by

Dawn made my divorce experience run quite smoothly. Dawn and Nicki, her assistant, were always quick to respond and very helpful. I have zero compliants and have already recommended Dawn to someone else through a mutual friend. If you are looking for an educated attorney, with your interest in mind that makes you feel like your case is her only matter at that moment who will not nickel and dime you, then you have found her. She is a straight shooter who gets the job done, period.
Dawn Renken's response: Thank you Nikki. And thank you for the referral, it means a lot.

Excellence

Posted by

I needed an attorney who would fight for me, Dawn was responsive, communicative and tough. I could not have asked for a better attorney when going through such a difficult Divorce. She fought tooth and nail to protect my rights and those of my daughter. She was strong for me when/where I couldn't be and brought me back to reality when I was going off on tangents. I would recommend her to anyone who asked.
Dawn Renken's response: Thank you Lisa. It means a lot to me.
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Attorney endorsements

(12)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Holli Palmer, Family Attorney on Jul 7, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. I have had cases with Dawn, and I have worked with her a a mediator. She is always thorough, prepared, and fights fiercely for her clients.

Bryan Fagan, Family Attorney on Mar 18, 2016
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. I have used Dawn as a mediator in my cases. She is a knowledgeable Family Law Attorney and Mediator!

Matthew Tyson

Dawn was easy to work with as opposing counsel and is a strong advocate for her clients.

James Evans, Family Attorney on Feb 5, 2015
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

I endorse this lawyer.

John Phillips

Lawyers who serve the avvo community as much as Ms. Renken are few and far between. It takes passion, concern and dedication to devote so much time. You have my endorsement and kudos.

Sheelah Wooten, Family Attorney on Jan 17, 2014
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

Dawn is an excellent lawyer. She is very knowledgeable and professional. It was evident to me, during our work on a modification case, that she works hard and fights for her clients.

Maria Lowry, Family Attorney on Dec 13, 2013
Relationship: Worked for lawyer

I endorse this lawyer.

Angela Green

I endorse this lawyer.This attorney has a strong reputation, is a zealous advocate for the clients and is a credit to the legal community.

Howard Lewis, Divorce and separation Attorney on Aug 24, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Renken is an outstanding attorney with an exceptional reputation. She is a strong and zealous advocate for her clients and a credit to the legal profession. I highly endorse her.

Deanna Dyer, Family Attorney on Feb 16, 2011
Relationship: Worked together on matter

I endorse this lawyer. She is handling a family law matter for me and I am very impressed by her expertise and professionalism. She is a pleasure to work with, returns calls quickly and her rates are quite reasonable. I would entrust her with any family law issues that arise in my practice in the future. Highly recommended.

Rosa Eliades, Family Attorney on Feb 11, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Efficient, aggressive, and persuasive. Dawn Renken is always knowledgeable about any family law questions I need answered and has handled mutual clients with overlapping family and criminal issues. She is also efficient at working out civil and family law matters because she is able to spot the solution and does not need to drag out the legal battle unless absolutly necessary. Dawn Renken uses plain and simple logic to argue her cases and cases and works towards long term solutions.

Debra Herndon, Family Attorney on Feb 10, 2011
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

I endorse this lawyer. A skilled litigator, Dawn still manages to keep her focus on the best interests of the children in the cases she is involved in. When you go against her in Court, you had better be prepared but her approach is always reasonable and based on the law.