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 1 - 5 of 15 reviews | Communication Style
Posted by Will | March 13, 2026 | Hired Attorney
Outstanding attorney who gets results
Elena Smolina did an exceptional job handling my divorce case. After a lengthy process, she helped secure a favorable final resolution and settlement, demonstrating professionalism, strategy, and persistence. She is highly knowledgeable in family law, especially in military divorce matters, which ...
Posted by Michelle | November 10, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation
Elena Smolina is an amazing divorce attorney!
Someone else wrote that Elena deserved 10 stars and I agree! When I found Elena, I had been through 8 months of intense stress as I tried to navigate a contentious divorce basically wearing a blindfold. I was in a bad place emotionally, had no idea what to look for in a divorce attorney, and didn't m...
Posted by Nora | October 21, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Child Custody
Excellent experience best family lawyer out there
I was in the middle of a very stressful custody battle with my ex-husband when a good friend recommended Elena Smolina. I was at the point of giving up, but she came in and completely turned things around. Elena is exceptionally knowledgeable in family law and knew exactly what needed to be done. Des...
Posted by Ande | May 21, 2025 | Divorce & Separation
FINALLY My Saving Grace!!!
If you’re going through a high-conflict divorce—don’t walk, RUN to Elena Smolina. My divorce was an absolute dumpster fire. Three years of emotional warfare, custody battles, financial games, and five different attorneys—two of whom came from highly reputable firms that made big promises and dropp...
Posted by Sarah | June 05, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Child Custody
Outstanding Legal Service
I cannot express enough gratitude for the outstanding legal services provided by Elena Smolina and Fair Cadora. From the moment I stepped into their office, I felt reassured and supported during what was undoubtedly one of the most challenging times of my life. Attorney Smolina demonstrated except...
"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