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It is my goal for my clients to know that I have been honest with them, that I have worked hard for them, and that I genuinely care what happens to them and their families. If I can educate them about the legal process along the way, even better.
Prior to law school, I worked in a medical malpractice, personal injury, and family law office while obtaining my paralegal certification. Interacting with clients who were going through such a traumatic time in thier lives, both physically and emotionally, motivated me to pick an area of the law where I felt I could actually help people. I understand that family law is a necessary evil, but with the right guidance and competent representation, the process can be a little less painful.
During law school, I worked in the family law mediation clinic. I believe every case should at least explore the possibility of reaching an agreement amicably, but if necessary, I have no problem flipping the switch and aggressively advocating for my clients. I am comfortable in the courtroom and you'll feel confident knowing I have your best interests in mind.
After working as a law clerk at an older, established local law firm in civil litigation defense, I soon realized that the big firm approach was not my style. You're going to have personalized attention and deal directly with me- not be shifted off to a paralegal or legal assistant. After graduation and passing the bar, I worked in family law, civil litigation and bankruptcy with my father, who has been practicing almost 40 years.
I then gained valuable experience as a staff attorney for the Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Trustee for the next five years. Even though I appeared on thousands of cases and was the examiner of hundreds of creditor meetings, I missed family law and client interaction, so here I am.
In my free time, I love to spend time with my family, travel, watch sports, ride horses, play softball, scuba dive, work on art projects. Anything else you'd like to know, just ask!
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Chat withState: California
Acquired: 2008
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380 S. Melrose Drive, Suite 348, Vista, CA, 92081
Showing 1 - 5 of 14 client reviews from Avvo
Posted by NP | August 21, 2025 | Hired Attorney
After a failed mediation due to an uncooperative ex, I was referred to Kristen. I'm so grateful for her outstanding service! Kristen consistently provided guidance and explained things in simple terms. She's honest and follows through. She consistently addressed my questions, gave me time to consid...
Posted by Grant | December 29, 2023 | Hired Attorney
As a client of Kristen's legal practice for 3 years, I had the profound experience of witnessing her exceptional legal expertise and unwavering dedication firsthand. Kristen was instrumental in successfully navigating my complex and emotional legal journey. If you're looking for a family law lawye...
Posted by Weston | March 9, 2021 | Hired Attorney
I can’t recommend Kristen enough. She is the perfect combination of empathetic and professionally assertive. She is knowledgeable, reliable and very communicative. My case (which we won) required a ton of work from Kristen...this was the toughest year of my life and words can’t explain how much Krist...
Posted by Brooke | March 20, 2018 | Hired Attorney
So when it shows “practice areas” for which area of law Kristen practices, it should state 100% in each area. She puts 100% in every case and into every detail! Kristen is a 2nd generation attorney and actively utilizes that knowledge and experience to help her clients get what is in their family’s b...
Posted by anonymous | December 1, 2017 | Hired Attorney
Ms. Gates represented me on a temporary restraining order she was prepared and passionate about my case She takes her job incredibly serious and understands how sensitive these situations can be that involve children. My parents showed up and both thought she was amazing. Ms. Gates is a straight shoo...
"Kristen is a true professional. She was my opposing counsel in a couple cases, and I found her to be a zealous advocate for her client; well-prepared, well-organized, and solid arguments. This, and she was a pleasure to work with -- no small feat when litigating domestic violence cases. I have no doubt she is that same calm, cool, collected expert with her clients. I not only endorse this attorney, I actively refer clients to her. She is fantastic."
"I endorse this lawyer. Kristen truly cares about her clients. She will go above and beyond for you. She understands what people are going through when they are dealing with Family Law issues and she will fight to get you what you are entitled to."
"I endorse this lawyer. Kristen is straightforward and will not mislead you. She is an amazingly intelligent attorney who is quick witted and knowledgeable."
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known and worked with Ms. Gates for many years and her passion for helping other shines through her work. She is honest and always has the client's best interest in mind."
Domestic violence lawyer
Litigation lawyer
Family lawyer
2015 - Present
Owner, Law Offices of Kristen M. Gates
2010 - 2015
Staff Attorney, Office of the Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Trustee
2008 - 2010
Attorney, Gates Law Office
2017 - Present
San Diego County Bar AssociationMember
2017 - Present
San Diego North County Bar AssociationMember
2017 - Present
San Diego County Bar Association, Family Law SectionMember
2017 - Present
Lawyers Club of San DiegoMember
2009 - 2009
National Institute for Trial AdvocacyTrial Skills
2009 - 2016
Central California Bankruptcy AssociationMember
2008 - 2018
Fresno County Bar AssociationMember
2008 - 2017
Fresno County Young Lawyers AssociationMember
2008 - 2017
Fresno County Women LawyersMember
2008
JD - Juris Doctor
2005
Paralegal Certification
2003
BS - Bachelor of Science
2013
Key Ingredients for a Successful Consumer Case
2011
What Consumer Attorneys Need to Know About Business Cases
English
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