Brenda Lopez

PRO

Brenda Lopez

4.9
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 13 years

Child custody Lawyer at San Diego, CA
Practice Areas: Child Custody, Child Support, Alimony ... +3 more

600 W. Broadway, Suite 700, San Diego, CA

Virtual Consultation Available

About Brenda

Biography

Certified Family Law Specialist

Practice Areas

6

Practice Areas

Alimony 20%

14 years

20%
Child Custody 20%

14 years

20%
Child Support 20%

14 years

20%
Divorce and Separation 15%

14 years

15%
Family 15%

14 years

15%
Domestic Violence 10%

14 years

10%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Retainer

Always


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2023 2019 2017

Licenses

Licensed in California for 13 years

State: California

Acquired: 2012

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Patterson, Lopez, Banuelos, Khiterman, LLP

600 W. Broadway, Suite 700, San Diego, CA, 92101

plbklaw.com/

Online Presence

Other places you can find Brenda online.

Brenda Lopez's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.9 /5.0

48 Client Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (48) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.

Showing 1 - 5 of 18 reviews | Practice Area Knowledge

Posted by Sean | July 10, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Exceptional Attorney

Exceptional Attorney! I searched for a while to find the right divorce Attorney. Soo glad Brenda was highly recommended and helped me thru a difficult process. Her recommendations have helped me with my children and finances. Thank you Brenda for all that you did for me!

Posted by anonymous | March 11, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Family

YOU HAVE TO USE BRENDA!

When starting my family matter case, I reached out to a friend who is a prominent attorney in Southern California. I asked for a few referrals for any family law attorneys within San Diego County. My situation was a mess and I told him I needed the best. He sent me back one name, Brenda's, and simply... said, "You have to use Brenda". Best piece of advice I had received during my complex two-year case. Brenda's knowledge and experience are world-class. Her preparation alone is in a league of its own. You don't realize how good her prep is until you see 6 opposing counsels fumble their way through a courtroom while a judge rolls their eyes. She's calm, collected, and professional in the courtroom but knows exactly when to fight and can fight when need be. You might assume all attorneys can do this, but again, after seeing 6 opposing attorneys go up against Brenda, that's not always the case! Brenda's expertise allows her to immediately identify technicalities in opposing party's declarations and arguments and a couple times she even corrected the judge on small technicalities! She genuinely cares about your family and getting you the best outcome. She can remember small details from a random story you tell her that you think doesn't apply to your case, but she thinks it does. She's a straight shooter. Sometimes to get the best overall outcome you have to be more reasonable than your feelings want you to be. She will tell you if she thinks you're being unreasonable and how the court will view it, based on her experience. You're ultimately the driver but she will guide you. Her communication is timely, she'll answer all your questions, she'll explain things that are happening that you might not understand, and you're always kept in the loop. I received outcomes I didn't think were possible on multiple issues. I'm just shy of saying I got everything I wanted and that's where being reasonable comes in. Every case is different, anything can happen when you walk through those courtroom doors and if you're fighting for your family or your livelihood you don't want to skimp or cut corners. Give yourself the best chance by walking in with Brenda and her knowledge, experience, and prep. If you're reading this, I'll give you the same advice I was given, you have to use Brenda!

Posted by Antonio | March 23, 2023 | Hired Attorney | Child Custody

Outstanding Attorney

Brenda is an outstanding attorney that assisted me in a very complex case. Brenda did a superb job guiding me through the whole process and advising me for each step. She was available anytime that I have a question. The success of my case is likely due to the great expertise of Brenda. I found her v...ery intelligent, but more important very kind and warm. I was a pleasure that she assisted me. I recommend Brenda without any hesitation to anyone that have a child custody case.

Posted by Ashley | June 22, 2022 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Timely communication and transparency

Brenda is very timely with her communication and walks you through every part of the process. She never leaves you hanging or wondering what's next. She was able to help me through a divorce process with child custody components in under a year. I ended up with everything I hoped for which was greatl...y due to Brenda's straight forward and realistic advice on what was feasible of not. I never once felt as if she was just in it for the money. She's worth every penny in representation. Highly recommend!

Posted by Ashley | April 20, 2022 | Hired Attorney | Child Custody

Professional and straight forward

Brenda is very honest and reliable. My case took 9 months and included child custody, child/spousal support, and the final judgement process. I felt comfortable every step of the way and knew she had my childrens best interest even before mine. I highly recommend her.

See All Client Reviews

Brenda Lopez's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Brenda
Elizabeth Pulido Swiller headshot
Elizabeth Swiller

Family lawyer | Jul 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Brenda is an exceptional lawyer. She strongly advocates for her clients and is extremely knowledgeable in her area of practice. I endorse this lawyer."

Naghmeh Bashar headshot
Naghmeh Bashar

Family lawyer | Sep 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Brenda Lopez is a Rising Star and I have recently nominated her as one! Brenda is a methodical and intelligent family law attorney who approaches her cases with all heart toward her clients and an iron fist toward all her opponents. I strongly recommend her as YOUR attorney."

Amanda Rochelle Khiterman headshot
Amanda Khiterman

Family lawyer | Mar 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Ms. Lopez is a dedicated attorney who prioritizes her clients, and prides herself in her work. She is a prominent figure in both the legal and local community. I highly endorse her for any of your family law needs."

Kris Ray Crawford headshot
Kris Crawford

Family lawyer | Jul 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. She takes time to provide great insight to the AVVO community."

Tanya Lynne Robinson headshot
Tanya Robinson

Family lawyer | Oct 18

Relationship: Co-worker

"Brenda is a rising star. She is a spectacular attorney and a great person. She uses her skills to aggressively advocate for her clients as well as to give back to the community. I won't be surprised to see Brenda as a leader in the legal community in the future."

Carlos J Tavares III headshot
Carlos Tavares

Family lawyer | Oct 06

Relationship: Co-worker

"Brenda is an intelligent hard working, dedicated, and compassionate attorney. Respected by clients and peers in the legal community."

Somair Syed Alam headshot
Somair Alam

Family lawyer | Feb 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Brenda is a top-notch family attorney. She is a zealous advocate for her clients and highly respected in the legal community."

Julie Olson Wolff headshot
Julie Wolff

Family lawyer | Jan 20

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Lopez's knowledge of the ins and outs and intricacies of family law is top notch. As a person, she is easy to speak with and very accessible to her clients."

Anthony Michael Medina headshot
Anthony Medina

Family lawyer | Jun 27

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Ms. Lopez is knowledgeable and an absolute professional. Happy to know her and I know her clients are happy to have her in their corner."

Ikuko Sano Brookshire headshot
Ikuko Brookshire

Family lawyer | May 31

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. I've had a pleasure of working with Ms. Lopez in family law cases as opposing counsels. She is compassionate and dedicated to being an advocate for her clients, while taking caring approach to sensitive issues that are unique to family law. I appreciated her professionalism to work towards resolution of the matters efficiently and effectively, without the needless litigation."

Mark V. Clay headshot
Mark Clay

Family lawyer | Sep 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"highly endorse Mrs. Lopez. Truly exceptional and caring attorney who produces great results in representing clients! I want all people with legal problems to contact her first."

Benjamin Aguilar headshot
Benjamin Aguilar

Family lawyer | Jun 06

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Ms. Lopez is a compassionate and dedicated advocate who fights to obtain the best result for her clients. I endorse this lawyer."

Caitlin Victoria Steele headshot
Caitlin Steele

Family lawyer | May 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Brenda is a great attorney. She will fight hard for her clients and make sure they are fully informed of their rights throughout the entire process."

Pejman D Kharrazian headshot
Pejman Kharrazian

Unknown lawyer | May 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Ms. Lopez is a hardworking and dedicated advocate for her clients. For family law matters she is among the best in San Diego. I endorse this lawyer."

Jeremy M. Evans headshot
Jeremy Evans

Family lawyer | May 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Brenda is a dear friend and colleague. She is personable and works hard for her clients."

Scott Kosner headshot
Scott Kosner

Family lawyer | Apr 17

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jylan M. Megahed headshot
Jylan Megahed

Family lawyer | Mar 31

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Ms. Lopez handles each case with the utmost integrity. Her professionalism and hard work leads to favorable results for her clients. She is superb in negotiating and settling matters. I highly endorse Ms. Lopez in all family law cases."

Timothy Miranda headshot
Timothy Miranda

Family lawyer | Jan 14

Relationship: Co-worker

"Brenda is a very skilled and zealous attorney, and is equally compassionate with her clients. Brenda has represented clients throughout Southern California, with outstanding results."

Nicole Elizabeth Boros headshot
Nicole Boros

Family lawyer | Dec 23

Relationship: Co-worker

"Brenda is an excellent family law attorney and is committed to providing superior results to her clients. She is a skilled advocate and definitely someone you want on your team."

Jeffrey Carlin Schmid headshot
Jeffrey Schmid

Family lawyer | Jul 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Brenda is an excellent attorney. She is very knowledgeable in the area of family law, and any client would be fortunate to have Brenda represent him or her."

View All Endorsements
Clarice Estrada Barrelet headshot
Clarice Barrelet

Family lawyer

Robert Mark Patterson headshot
Robert Patterson

Family lawyer

Maria M. Rogova headshot
Maria Rogova

Family lawyer

Naghmeh Bashar headshot
Naghmeh Bashar

Family lawyer

Steven Keith Berenson headshot
Steven Berenson

Family lawyer

Paul Adam Swiller headshot
Paul Swiller

Adoption lawyer

Brigid Cay Dade Campo headshot
Brigid Campo

Family lawyer

Angela Gochenour Buono headshot
Angela Buono

Family lawyer

Cristina R Nuno headshot
Cristina Nuno

Family lawyer

Amanda Rochelle Khiterman headshot
Amanda Khiterman

Family lawyer

Puja Arun Sachdev headshot
Puja Sachdev

Family lawyer

James Richard Vercollone headshot
James Vercollone

Family lawyer

Rodolfo Herrera headshot
Rodolfo Herrera

Family lawyer

Johanna Mary Keamy headshot
Johanna Keamy

Immigration lawyer

Julie Olson Wolff headshot
Julie Wolff

Family lawyer

Anthony Michael Medina headshot
Anthony Medina

Family lawyer

Brook Ann Radelfinger headshot
Brook Radelfinger

Unknown lawyer

Anton Vialtsin headshot
Anton Vialtsin

Unknown lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2025

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2024

Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers

2023

Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers

2022

Rising Star, SuperLawyers

2021

President's Award, San Diego La Raza Lawyers Association

2021

Rising Star, SuperLawyers

2020

Rising Star, SuperLawyers

2019

Rising Star, SuperLawyers

2017

Community Outreach Award, Antonyan Miranda, LLP

Work Experience

2020 - Present

Founding Partner, Patterson, Lopez, Banuelos, Khiterman, LLP

1900 - Present

Member, Patterson, Lopez, Banuelos, Khiterman, LLP

2020 - 2020

Attorney, Law Offices of Brenda Lopez

2014 - 2015

Associate Attorney, Miranda Law Group, PC

2014 - 2020

Senior Associate Attorney, Antonyan Miranda, LLP

Associations

2020 - Present

San Diego La Raza Lawyers Association's Scholarship Fund

Board of Directors

San Diego County Bar Association

Member

San Diego Family Law Bar Association

Member

Lawyers Club of San Diego

Member

Tom Homann Law Association

Member

2023 - 2024

Lawyers Club

Co-chair of the Law Student Outreach Committee

2020 - 2021

San Diego La Raza Lawyers Association

Vice President

2020 - 2023

San Diego County Bar Association

Board of Directors

2020 - 2021

Lawyers Club

Co-chair of the Community Services Committee

2019 - 2020

Lawyers Club of San Diego

Co-chair of the Gender Equity Committee

2018 - 2019

San Diego Bar Association

Member at Large

2017 - 2018

San Diego County Bar Association, Family Law Section

Chair

2016 - 2017

San Diego County Bar Association, Family Law Section

Vice Chair

Sample of Legal Cases

Move Away

Successfully argued for move-away order

Motion to Transfer Venue

Successfully defended against motion

See More Legal Cases

Education

2011

Thomas Jefferson SOL

JD - Juris Doctor

2007

San Diego State University

BS - Bachelor of Science

N/A

San Diego State University

BA

Speaking Engagements

2023

Neighborhood Law School Series

Family Law

2022

Webinar

Evidence in Domestic Violence Cases

2018

Child Custody/ Visitation and Child Abuse/Neglect Issues

Child Welfare Services

2017

2017

Dos Menores Secuestrados Custody/Removal Issues

2015

San Diego State University, Pre-Law Society

Family Law Guest Lecturer at San Diego State University

Publications

Languages

English

Spanish

Farsi

Russian

Activity

Avvo Rating

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What determines Avvo Rating?
  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
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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