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Monica H Donaldson Stewart

Divorce and separation Attorney at Chandler, AZ

4.6   26 reviews

Licensed for 25 years

Virtual consultation available

Free consultation

About Monica

Learn Monica’s areas of practice.

IF YOU HAVE A FAMILY LAW SITUATION, THE ATTORNEYS AT DONALDSON STEWART, PC ARE HERE TO HELP! CALL 480-256-2236

When I am not practicing law, I enjoy reading and writing mystery novels. I am also an amateur nature photographer. I love hiking and taking in all the beauty Arizona has to offer. 

I have children and step-children (all of whom are amazing, brilliant, special and wonderful!), so I understand first-hand the issues of divorce, remarriage, co-parenting, step-parenting, etc.

Photos and videos

Licensed for 25 years
State AZ
Status Active
Acquired 1997
Updated 03/17/2023

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Contact Monica

Donaldson Stewart, P.C.
3100 West Ray Road Suite 115
Chandler, AZ, 85226

Reviews

4.6 / 5.0
  26 customer reviews
Posted by anonymous | December 16, 2014
Highly Recommended!
I would highly recommend Monica Donaldson Stewart to anyone in need of an excellent Family Law attorney. She was very knowledgeable, and always answered my questions very quickly. All of her recommendations as to how to proceed in my case were accurate and beneficial. Her staff was very friendly, and always quick to respond to inquiries as well. My case was successful, and Monica made a difficult time much easier to handle.
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Posted by Mandy | December 5, 2014
The Best!
I highly recommend Monica, it's been great working with her, she is quick to respond to my emails, is personable, shows concern and great care for my case. She is on top of things and willing to go the extra mile. Monica always has answers to my questions. She was recommended to me and I am very happy and pleased that I chose Monica to represent me.
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Posted by Beth K. | April 1, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Heather Pelaez
I want to thank Heather and all the staff for helping me through a trying time in my life. The service I received was exceptional. I will definitely refer to anyone who needs your services.
Response from Monica Donaldson Stewart April 2, 2018
Thank you for sharing your comments!
Posted by anonymous | February 18, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Consultation
Great staff!! Marty was an excellent attorney. She helped us with our questions.
Response from Monica Donaldson Stewart February 20, 2018
Thank you for sharing your comments - I am always pleased (but never surprised!) to hear wonderful things about my associate attorneys and about my staff! It looks like you consulted with Marty Zalevsky about your case - I wonder if you'd be willing to post your review directly to her profile on Avvo so other consumers can read about your positive experience?
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Posted by anonymous | October 17, 2016
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Positive Experience!
I had a "Positive Experience" with Monica H Donaldson Stewart! She answered my Family Law questions regarding Alimony issues clearly and in an understandable manner. I recommend her!
Posted by Bradford | April 8, 2016
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Excellent Consultation
I cannot say enough about Monica. I was going through a divorce and was representing myself. I believed I had a good handle on the law...but just wanted to be sure. I found Monica thru Hyatt Legal Plans - and struck a goldmine when I randomly selected her as she was on my way to work. Three times I met with her for consultation (plus some emails here and there.) She executed a document review on all the paperwork I filed. She confirmed or corrected my understanding on divorce law. She provided strategies on how to navigate thru some rough waters, and she was there for whatever support I might have needed. She was the "Ace" in my back pocket. Needless to say, I did represent myself in court, and the result - the judge ruled in my favor on all contested points. So if Monica could help me win my divorce hearing, and ensured that my assets were saved, and that the assets that my wife tried to keep from me, were thus secured, and doing that all just in the background...then I can only imagine what she could do if she ever represented me in person in a courtroom. So if you need a lawyer for a divorce, and if you want what is due to you by law...look no further. Give this lady a call.
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Posted by David Lilley | April 2, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great service
We needed a simple court filing prepared, but needed an attorney in AZ to do it. Monica offered a very reasonable price, dealt with the issue promptly and effectively. Her office maintained excellent communication throughout the process. I highly recommend her.
Posted by anonymous | December 5, 2014
Excellent service
Monica was a great mediator. My hope is to never have to refer her to my friends or family. However, if that friend or family member is at that juncture in their marriage and divorce seems to be the only solution then I would whole heartedly recommend Monica and her staff.
Posted by Jen | September 25, 2013
Excellent Attorney
Monica has been my attorney for about a year now, representing me in my divorce proceedings…. something which my ex-husband has not made very pleasant. Throughout this process, Monica has been extremely patient and has been a steady voice of reason if I ever felt the need to stoop to the same levels as my ex. She has consistently shown professionalism, dedication to my case, and has made me feel that regardless of whatever else she needs to deal with, that my needs are always first and foremost. Monica has been creative in her negotiations yet always within the law and with my best interests in mind as well as my children’s. Before even retaining Monica as my attorney, she spent an extensive amount of time answering questions both in person, on the phone and via email, and even went so far as to research certain aspects specific to my situation to ensure she was advising me appropriately. This dedication to someone who was not yet even a client was one of my deciding factors in retaining Monica to represent me….a decision I stand by to this day. Should I need an attorney for any reason in the future, Monica Donaldson Stewart will always be the first person I call, and will certainly be the one attorney I recommend to anyone who asks.
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Posted by Mackenzi | September 8, 2013
The Best Divorce/Family Law Attorney!
Monica and her staff are very dependable, knowledgeable, professional...the list goes on. Monica is fair and has done a great job helping me stay focused and not let the emotional aspect of divorce get the best of me and the situation. She looks out for the best of both parties and especially the children. I highly recommend Monica to anyone who needs a family law attorney and give her info out to all I come in contact with who need a great attorney.
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Posted by Dave | September 4, 2013
Excellent Attorney Monica Donaldson
I must say that without a doubt Monica Donaldson was the best attorney to handle my divorce. She was very professional and ALWAYS had my children's best interest in mind. She maintained a calm and reasonable approach with handling my ex. She always responded to me day or night....weekdays or weekends. I would "HIGHLY" recommend Monica to handle anyone's Family Law case. Without a doubt an extremely competent attorney and someone who understands the emotional aspect of a divorce. Her integrity is above approach and she is very ethical towards both parties involved.
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Posted by David & Barb | January 11, 2013
AAA ++++Excellence in service
We have had numerous questions which were answered swiftly and professionally by Monica or one of her extremely competent staff.The tangled maze of the legal system was expertly navigated , and we were made to feel comfortable with all our decisions,by the fantastic staff of Donaldson and Associates. We are grateful to have had such wonderful assistance in plying these ,oh so unfamiliar, waters. We have recommended to many people to use the firm.
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Posted by Dave Dever | June 15, 2012
Monica Donaldson Review
Monica Donaldson is a Professional Family Law Attorney that I would recommend to anyone who is need of someone who understands the required steps in family matters. She demonstrated a high level of Professionalism and was always responsive to my questions and concerns. She works long hours and she always knew how to maintain a level perspective on all situations. I "Strongly" recommend Monica for anyone that needs an attorney pertaining to Family Law.
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Posted by Julie | June 11, 2012
Child Custody
Monica was recommended to me by a friend who's husband works in the Family Court in Mesa, AZ. My experience with Monica and her law firm have been incredibly positive. She and her staff have gone above and beyond my expectations based on past experiences with other law firms in the area. Prior to hiring Monica, she consulted with me and allowed me to stay in touch with her through email as I battled a difficult situation with my ex husband regarding my two children. Although I would have paid for her wonderful advice, she did not charge me until I had decided I needed to take the next step to hire her to protect my children. This action shows Monica is not in the legal profession to merely make a buck. She truly cares about her clients. When I decided to hire Monica and her firm, I was in an emergency situation which called for immediate action to protect my children. Monica and her staff were so caring and showed great empathy and concern. I have to admit, I broke down in tears with relief because of the take charge attitude and help they provided. Another attorney and Monica's paralegal sat down with me to help me complete the lengthy paperwork I needed to take before the judge for an emergency hearing. Without their help and expertise I never would have been able to accomplish this on my own. Although I know Monica and her staff have a full case load, they always make me feel as though I am the only client they have. I am still in an ongoing litigation with my ex. Monica and her staff have been exemplary in their work ethics on my case. I am kept informed at every stage and am highly satisfied with the results thus far. I don't wish divorce or custody battles on anyone. I hate divorce and the devastation it plays in the lives of the husband and wife as well as any children. However, I would highly recommend Monica and her firm to anyone who needs legal help. They truly do provide quality representation with your best interests in mind.
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Posted by anonymous | June 11, 2012
Would never use anybody else!
Monica was great, from start to finish, it was the smoothest legal proceeding I have ever been through. Her staff was professional and responsive. All in all I could't have asked for more.
Posted by Jon | June 10, 2012
A divorce attorney who was exactly what I needed
Monica was fantastic. During difficult negotiations she was quick to inform me of where we would likely end up to avoid consuming time and piling up legal fees. I always felt she was in this negotiation for me, asking me what I wanted and then representing those wants and my best interest whether I knew them or not; always helping me understand the difference between what was fair vs what the law would decide when it came to issues that impacted me financially, or the emotional well being of me and my children.
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Posted by Daniel | October 15, 2010
Consummate professional
Monica is absolutely the most engaged attorney I have ever worked with. She mastered the law in my case, managed the process, and even my own temper. She is a consummate professional in the courtroom as well as in meetings. She is easy to communicate with and her staff is fantastic as well. I highly recommend her.
Posted by anonymous | June 7, 2009
Excellent family lawyer.
Monica Donaldson was professional. She speaks to you with respect. She responds quickly with any questions. She is well informed and provides realistic views on what works and doesn't work in court. She was a pleasure to work with and would be my first choice should I need legal representation in the future.
Posted by anonymous | June 3, 2009
Excellent communication and patience
Monica helps me to feel comfortable about the results pending. She communicates well and very approachable. Even being out of state she has been very professional, courtesy and also assist to help me feel relaxed
Posted by anonymous | June 2, 2009
.
Monica Donalson was the best attorney I have had to deal with. She is very informative and knows her stuff!!
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Managing Attorney
  • Donanldson Stewart, P.C.
  • 2001 - Present

Education

  • Arizona State University Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1997
  • Arizona State University
  • BS - Bachelor of Science
  • 1993

Associations

  • Maricopa County Association of Family Mediators
  • Secretary
  • 2018 - Present
  • Board of Legal Specialization
  • Board Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • East Valley Bar Association
  • Treasurer
  • 2009 - Present
  • Maricopa County Superior Court
  • Judge Pro Tem - Family Court
  • 2007 - Present
  • East Valley Bar Association
  • President
  • 2008 - 2009
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Super Lawyer
  • Southwest Super Lawyers
  • 2019
  • Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2019
  • Rising Star
  • Southwest Super Lawyers
  • 2013
  • Rising Star
  • Southwest Super Lawyers
  • 2012
  • Arizona's Finest Lawyers
  • Arizona's Finest Lawyers
  • 2011
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

  • Multiple Family Law Continuing Legal Education Seminars
  • Various Family Law Topics
  • 2009

Attorney endorsements

Received (34)
Given (21)
Endorse Monica
Family Attorney | Aug 16
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Personable, easy to work with, and professional. Family law can be very high tension, so having Monica involved makes everyone more at ease and keeps the process moving as smoothly as possible."
Divorce and separation Attorney | May 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Nov 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Monica is thorough and knowledgeable. She is committed where possible to using collaborative law. I trust her work product and her legal analysis. I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Nov 18
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Monica is very knowledgeable and professional."
Family Attorney | Jun 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I have worked with Monica on more than one occasion, and I am always impressed by her reasonableness and her ability to encourage parties to work towards settlement."
Unknown Attorney | Oct 06
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Monica is the rare attorney who has both a deep knowledge of the law, and the compassion to see that it is applied fairly. I strongly endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Aug 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Ms. Stewart is a valuable asset to this community. Her continuing dedication to the law and her clients is admirable."
Family Attorney | Jul 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Her advice is thoughtful and well-considered."
Family Attorney | Jun 23
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Monica is a well-respected member of the family law community, highly regarded by practitioners, experts and the judiciary. She is a strong advocate for her clients, but always conducts herself with the upmost level of professionalism. Monica is settlement minded and a highly skilled litigator in the courtroom. I would recommend Monica to anyone."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Jun 02
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I am a practicing divorce attorney and have had the pleasure of working on cases with Monica throughout the years. She has always been professional, thoroughly prepared, and reasonable. She simply gets the job done. I can confidently endorse Monica!"
Divorce and separation Attorney | Dec 21
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Monica is an excellent attorney. Very thorough, knowledgeable, and professional. She serves all her clients extremely well."
Family Attorney | Oct 09
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Very professional and very competent. She is a credit to the legal community."
Family Attorney | Oct 09
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Monica is knowledgeable and the pleasure to work with."
Family Attorney | Sep 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Monica is an excellent attorney in family matters. She is very knowledgeable and experienced!"
Family Attorney | Jun 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Donaldson Stewart is very knowledgeable about the law. I enjoy reading her responses to verify what I know about the law and see different was to approach a family law case."
Family Attorney | Jun 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"An extremely talented and well respected attorney in the legal community, I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone looking for a lawyer who knows the law and truly cares about protecting the rights of her clients and getting them the most favorable result possible."
Family Attorney | Apr 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Monica is a well known and well respected family law attorney in the community. She gives quality advice and is a skilled and knowledgeable attorney."
Family Attorney | Jan 09
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Monica has mediated my cases, she has been the opposing counsel on my cases, and her associates have been opposing counsel on my cases. She is a great mediator and attorney."
Unknown Attorney | Sep 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Jul 23
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I handled a matter with Monica and strongly endorse her for any family law client. Monica is an extremely experienced and gifted litigator who works to protect her clients' interests. We were able to settle a very contentious matter due in large part to her demeanor and abilities."
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