Cathleen Elisabeth Norton

PRO

Cathleen Elisabeth Norton

5.0
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 20 years

Divorce and separation Lawyer at Beverly Hills, CA
Practice Areas: Divorce & Separation, Family, Child Custody ... +2 more

9465 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 300, Beverly Hills, CA

Virtual Consultation Available

Free Consultation

About Cathleen

Biography

Cathleen Norton is a Certified Family Law Specialist, licensed by the Board of Specialization, California State Bar. She is a proud graduate of UCLA School of Law and has practiced family law exclusively for nearly two decades.

We are prepared to advocate fiercely for our clients’ interests both inside and outside of the courtroom.

With a deep understanding of the complexities and nuances of family law, we are dedicated to providing personalized and strategic legal solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs and goals.

We take the time to listen to client concerns, educate them about their rights and options, and empower them to make informed decisions about their family law matters.

Having graduated from UCLA with dual bachelor's degrees in Women's Studies and Philosophy, Cathleen is familiar with the gender inequities that often lead to the necessity of spousal support. Whether you seek or defend against a request for spousal support, you will have no better advocate.

As a client-focused firm, we believe in building long-lasting relationships based on trust, integrity, and respect. Trust that you will receive the highest level of legal representation and personalized attention every step of the way.

Practice Areas

5

Practice Areas

Divorce and Separation 30%

Divorces can be confusing and emotionally exhausting without an experienced family law attorney on your side. We have answers to your questions regarding child custody, visitation, spousal support, child support, and division of community property assets and debts. Call us to schedule a free consultation at (310) 300-4021.

21 years

30%
Child Custody 20%

We understand that nothing is more important in life than one's children. In CA, both parents have legal rights and responsibilities pertaining to their children. You have a right to frequent and continuing contact with your children absent extreme circumstances. Did you know that the amount of time you have with your children will impact the amount of child support you have to pay or will receive? You have questions and we have answers. Call us today for a free consultation at (310) 300-4021.

21 years

20%
Family 20%

Family Law encompasses divorce, domestic partnership, and paternity cases involving custody and visitation, child support, spousal support or alimony, and division of assets and debts. Make the call that makes the difference. We will help guide you through the complexities of your family law matter. Our goal is to empower you with the legal information you need to make informed decisions about your family and your finances. We have the answers you seek. Free Consultations (310) 300-4021.

21 years

20%
Alimony 15%

Alimony or Spousal Support as it is known in California is a tricky area of the law because it gives judges broad discretion in ways that child support, for example, does not. We're here to help you navigate the complexities of both temporary and permanent spousal support.

21 years

15%
Child Support 15%

Child Support and custody/visitation go hand-in-hand with each other. Let us help explain how child support is calculated in the State of California. Call us for answers to your questions.

21 years

15%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 30 minutes

Hourly Rates

$ 250-550 per hour

Retainer

Always


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2025 2024 2023
...
+ 7
Top Contributor
Top Contributor
2013 2012

Licenses

Licensed in California for 20 years

State: California

Acquired: 2005

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Law Offices of Cathleen E. Norton

9465 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 300, Beverly Hills, CA, 90212

cnortonlaw.com

Law Offices of Cathleen E. Norton

20301 Ventura Blvd, Woodland Hills, CA, 91364

cnortonlaw.com

Law Offices of Cathleen E. Norton

1000 Town Center Drive, Suite 300, Oxnard, CA, 93036

cnortonlaw.com

Online Presence

Other places you can find Cathleen online.

Cathleen Elisabeth Norton's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

88 Client Reviews

5 star (87)
4 star (0)
3 star (0)
2 star (0)
1 star (1)

Posted by anonymous | September 9, 2025 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

I can never thank Cathleen enough

Cathleen Norton is unlike any other family lawyer I spoke to during this difficult process, and now I honestly consider her a part of my family. She is the only example I’ve found of what a family lawyer should truly represent—integrity, compassion, and a first-rate knowledge of the law, the court sy...stem, and the strategies that actually work. From our very first conversation, Cathleen and her excellent team were thorough, strategic, and incredibly caring. She doesn’t pressure or steamroll her clients the way big firms do while charging $1000 an hour. Instead, she listens, gives honest guidance, and fights for what truly matters: children and their families. Cathleen reversed years of damage from poor lawyering and overly harsh judgments, and because of her dedication I was finally reunited with my beloved son after two long years apart. The joy she brought into my life is beyond words, and I am forever grateful. If you’re considering a large firm, think again. Having someone like Cathleen—an absolute top gun—on your side makes all the difference. I can’t thank her enough for her skill, her heart, and the light she has brought into my life. She’s not just my lawyer—she’s a forever friend.

Posted by Libby | August 15, 2025 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

The best attorney

If you're looking for an attorney who is not only a fierce advocate but also a compassionate listener, look no further. Cathleen Norton is the kind of lawyer who combines strength with empathy — a rare and powerful combination. From the very first meeting, she made me feel heard, understood, and supp...orted. She doesn’t just fight for her clients — she cares deeply about them and the families involved. Ms. Norton had a clear understanding of how to handle my narcissistic ex-husband effectively and strategically. What impressed me most was her ability to navigate complex emotional situations with clarity and grace. She always kept the best interests of my family at the forefront while protecting my rights and guiding me through the legal process with confidence and integrity. She’s strategic, knowledgeable, and incredibly responsive. You never feel like just another case on her desk — you feel like a priority. Her emotional intelligence sets her apart. She understands that legal matters, especially family law, aren’t just about paperwork and court dates — they’re about people, lives, and futures. She never lost sight of that. I can't recommend Ms. Norton highly enough. She is a true professional, a relentless advocate, and a trusted guide during one of the most challenging times of my life.

Posted by anonymous | July 22, 2025 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Grateful for Cathleen

Cathleen saved me from not only my ex that was pulling every low move in the divorce book but from myself as well. After finding out my Ex was cheating on me using sex services for 20 of the 26 years we were together I broke into a million pieces and had a hard time caring about the legal aspect of d...ivorce. We originally were with a mediator, thank God I took my father's advice in getting my own lawyers. Cathleen was able to point out all the shady things I was about to allow through mediation not knowing the divorce process. She's very strategic in all her moves and has great office support which allows her to operate at her best. She saw all of my ex's manipulation and underhanded obstacles and was able to help me through all of it as I was trying to get on my feet. Thank you for being an incredible, smart & caring lawyer Cathleen. I would not have been ok today if it weren't for you.

Posted by Yvonne G. | July 9, 2025 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

"Above and Beyond- A True Advocate in my Darkest Time''

Going through a Domestic Abuse case was one of the most painful chapters of my life, and I truly don’t know how I would have made it through without the help of Cathleen. From the first time we spoke, I felt safe. I was scared, confused, and emotionally overwhelmed, but Cathleen made sure I never fel...t alone. Cathleen and her paralegal team listened to me with empathy, explained my options with clarity, and always treated me with respect and dignity. Throughout the case, they guided me through each step with incredible patience and care. They were always responsive, honest, and clear, even when I was full of fear and questions. Cathleen’s legal knowledge and calm presence gave me strength when I needed it the most. Because of their hard work and dedication, I was able to get a permanent restraining order granted and ensure my safety and peace of mind. I truly believe they changed the course of my life. I will always be deeply grateful for the way Cathleen stood by me, not just as a legal representative, but as someone who genuinely cared. A 5-star rating isn't enough to measure the dedication, compassion, and excellence Cathleen brought to my case. She went above and beyond, and I’ll always be grateful. I highly recommend Cathleen E. Norton and her paralegal team (Victoria) to anyone in need of not just a great attorney but also someone that you can trust to be the advocate you deserve.

Posted by Kevin | July 7, 2025 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Top notch, response service.

Cathleen was instrumental in my obtaining 50/50 custody of my daughter. The insights she gave me for what to expect from the mediators and judges I faced were vitally important to my case. I highly recommend her and her staff for any family law needs.

See All Client Reviews

Cathleen Elisabeth Norton's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Cathleen
Gary Darrel Labin headshot
Gary Labin

Family lawyer | Aug 19

Relationship: Other

"Cathleen and I went to the UCLA School of Law together and I have always been thoroughly impressed with her intelligence and strong work ethic."

Alexandra Rachel Lavinsky headshot
Alexandra Lavinsky

Family lawyer | Sep 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Ms. Norton is a highly motivated and talented attorney. Her knowledge of the law, creative ability to apply it and passion for legal advocacy make her an excellent choice for someone seeking zealous legal representation."

Nathan W Gabbard headshot
Nathan Gabbard

Divorce and separation lawyer | Jul 15

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

Matthew John Smurda headshot
Matthew Smurda

Divorce and separation lawyer | Apr 16

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. She is highly respected in the family law community and is very knowledgeable. A great choice for anyone looking for representation in connection with family law issues."

Dmitriy Shakhnevich headshot
Dmitriy Shakhnevich

Child custody lawyer | Sep 28

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

Hovanes Margarian headshot
Hovanes Margarian

Family lawyer | Jul 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Sean Cleary headshot
Sean Cleary

Child custody lawyer | May 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. A highly skilled and respected lawyer in the legal community."

Janet Eileen Sobel headshot
Janet Sobel

Family lawyer | May 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Cathleen has not only distinguished herself among her peers for her skills as a family law practitioner, but she is also a sweet and kind person who takes care to reach out to others, to help promote others, in caring ways. That is a character trait that is not always exhibited by lawyers, and her large heart is no doubt reflected in her high AVVO rating and the endorsements and reviews she has garnered. She has the kind of career that not many lawyers - even ones with ten figure verdicts - can hope to have. I will look for opportunities to promote her as she has promoted me!"

John M O'Brien headshot
John O'Brien

Child custody lawyer | May 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. A brilliant and highly respected attorney in the legal community."

William Lee Huestis headshot
William Huestis

Family lawyer | Apr 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Norton is a wonderful lawyer and legal strategist. She is able to quickly and concisely map out case issues. She is also incredibly well versed in the court system and will provide clients top quality legal advice."

Gary Roger Brod headshot
Gary Brod

Family lawyer | Apr 24

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this highly skilled and respected lawyer in the legal community."

Debra Vaniman Crawford headshot
Debra Crawford

Family lawyer | Jan 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Marta Anne Serlin Price headshot
Marta Price

Domestic violence lawyer | Oct 10

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

Young Ah Ri headshot
Young Ri

Family lawyer | Sep 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Based on her answers to avvo clients' questions that I have read and agreed, it is clear that she is a highly experienced and confident family law attorney. She advises based on competent in-depth analysis and her extensive knowledge in the complicated family laws. Great attorney."

Taylor House headshot
Taylor House

Child custody lawyer | Sep 17

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Michael P. Gerace headshot
Michael Gerace

Family lawyer | Sep 08

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Awesome attorney. Highly respected in the legal community.."

Heidi Pamela Lauer headshot
Heidi Lauer

Family lawyer | Aug 21

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

Christopher Daniel Leroi headshot
Christopher Leroi

Divorce and separation lawyer | Aug 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Michael Ian Rott headshot
Michael Rott

Family lawyer | Aug 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Tatiana Kadetskaya headshot
Tatiana Kadetskaya

Unknown lawyer | Jun 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Excellent attorney. Highly recommended."

View All Endorsements
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Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2025

Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers

2023

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2022

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2021

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2020

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2019

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2018

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2017

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2016

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2015

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2015

Super Lawyer - Rising Star 2015, Super Lawyers

2014

Super Lawyer - Rising Star 2014, Super Lawyers

2014

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2013

Super Lawyer - Rising Star 2013, Super Lawyers

2013

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2012

Clients' Choice Award, Avvo

2012

Top Contributor, Avvo

Work Experience

2005 - Present

Owner, LAW OFFICES OF CATHLEEN E. NORTON

Associations

2005 - Present

Beverly Hills Bar Association

Member

2005 - Present

Los Angeles County Bar Association

Member

2005 - Present

San Fernando Valley Bar Association

Member

2009 - 2010

Southern California Family Law American Inn of Court

Executive Committee

Education

2004

UCLA School of Law

JD

1999

UCLA

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2010

Family Law Inns of Court

Liar, Liar Pants on Fire; Imputation of Income Using Discovery Tools

2010

Beverly Hills Bar Association Using the Internet as a Discovery Tool

Publications

Languages

English

Activity

Top Contributor

Cathleen earned significant contribution points in 2013.

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