Divorce, separation and conflict about the children or finances is a high-stress event affecting all aspects of our life. A new family dynamic can be emotionally draining. It is often difficult to see the big picture and remain balanced throughout the legal process. San Diego attorney Elena Smolina is passionate about helping her clients navigate the legal system and protect them when they are most vulnerable.
Attorney Smolina is an experienced and ethical litigator with a successful track record of handling family law cases from inception to resolution through settlement, mediation or trial. Her knowledge of California family law and procedure makes her an effective advocate for her clients, whether in court or negotiating a settlement. Attorney Elena Smolina provides caring but straightforward representation built on transparency and trust. Her current focus includes high asset divorce cases, child and spousal support, preliminary injunctions, high conflict child custody and visitation, move away requests, domestic violence restraining orders, paternity actions, mediation and post-judgment modifications.
Prior to forming Neinas Smolina APC, attorney Smolina worked for well-known family law firms in San Diego, and in the civil litigation arena having practiced in state and federal courts throughout the greater Los Angeles and San Diego areas.
She volunteered as a pro-bono attorney for San Diego Volunteer Lawyer Program on domestic violence and guardianship cases. Attorney Smolina speaks fluent Russian. She is a pro-bono interpreter and translator for Casa Cornelia Law Center, victims of crime program, and Catholic Charities.
In 2019, Elena contributed over 100 hours in legal work as a pro-bono attorney helping clients who could not afford to pay for legal representation. Her contribution was recognized by the award of 2019 Wiley W. Manuel Certificates for Pro Bono Legal Services.
San Diego divorce attorney Elena Smolina is passionate about family law and is committed to her clients who describe her as knowledgeable, honest and effective. Her diverse legal background and analytical skills enable her to think outside the box and find simple and elegant solutions in complex issues.
Neinas Smolina APC, a San Diego divorce and family law firm, provides legal assistance and zealous representation to individuals in greater San Diego area, including all four family law courts in Vista, San Diego, El Cajon and Chula Vista. Our experienced attorneys vigorously represent clients while maintaining the highest degree of professional integrity. The attorney you initially meet will represent you and communicate with you, ensuring consistency in all aspects of your case. Reach out to Neinas Smolina APC today to discuss your situation via email, phone call or through our website.
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Chat withState: California
Acquired: 2018
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12520 High Bluff Drive Suite 240, San Diego, CA, 92130
54 Client Reviews
Showing 6 - 10 of 15 reviews | Communication Style
Posted by anonymous | October 11, 2023 | Hired Attorney
Dedicated and personable
Ms. Smolina has been very dedicated to my case. She is great at following through via emails and phone calls. She is a very nice and caring person. She took the time to answer all my questions and guide me through the process. I would definitely recommend her services!
Posted by Jen | October 02, 2023 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation
I highly recommend her to anyone in need of a family lawyer.
I recently worked with Elena on a divorce/ child custody case. She was patient and understanding throughout the entire process. She explained everything to me in detail and made sure I was comfortable with every decision we made. She was also very responsive to my emails and phone calls. I am so gra...
Posted by Lena | December 29, 2022 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation
She won my case
After initial consultation she carefully and in details explained what’s happening and what would be the best route to take in my situation. After 2 years of marriage my ex husband now was verbally abusing me, taking away my personal belongings, my passport, trying to kick me out the house, harassing...
Posted by anonymous | February 25, 2022 | Hired Attorney | Asylum
Great!
I work for a non-profit agency, representing asylum-seekers. My clients lack sufficient resources to pay for translation services. Off a professional recommendation, I contacted Ms. Smolina and asked her to translate numerous complex legal documents from Russian to English for an asylum case. Ms. ...
Posted by Liza | February 17, 2022 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation
Highly recommended
I can’t say enough how thankful I am to Elena Smolina. My situation was horrible, my ex and I could not agree on anything. Elena responded to my every call and email. She helped me understand the legal process and my rights. She “held my hand” through this difficult and emotional time in my life and ...
"I endorse this lawyer. She is a diligent and hard worker. She is very knowledgeable in family law and discovery issues."
"Elena is an incredibly knowledgable and effective family law attorney. She is sharp, thorough and a great advocate."
Family lawyer
Family lawyer
2019
Wiley W. Manuel Certificate for Pro Bono Legal Services, Wiley W. Manuel
2025 - Present
Partner, Neinas Smolina APC
2022 - Present
North County Bar AssociationMember
2018 - Present
San Diego County Bar AssociationMember
Favorable to client
Favorable
favorable to client
N/A
Russian