California Family Law Attorneys

Derek Austin

Managing Senior Attorney

Riverside, CA

1-855-687-1357

Derek Austin is a family law attorney, specializing in litigation and complex cases.

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Table of Contents

Biography
Education
Bar Admissions
Practice Areas
Awards & Recognition
Past Legal Representations And Disposition:

Derek is a California-certified Family Law Specialist. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of California at San Diego and received his law degree from Santa Clara University. He is a native of San Jose and attended Independence High School.

Biography

Early in his legal career, Derek appeared and prevailed before the 1st District, California Court of Appeal (Published Opinion 161 Cal.App.4th 809). Thereafter, he focused his practice mainly on family law. In 2010, Derek started his own practice after leaving a regional law firm in San Jose. Derek’s solo practice focused exclusively on family and criminal law.

In 2017, Derek merged his practice with Schank Family Law. Since that time, Derek has assisted Mr. Schank with managing and building his firm’s family law presence in 5 of the major Northern California counties . Derek is known for his straightforward, practical approach to problem-solving. However, Derek is a trial attorney at his core, and litigation strategy is his strength. His trial-first approach and preparation position his clients to achieve favorable results prior to trial.

Derek is passionate about his family, friends, community, and work ethic. He loves all sports and especially watching his two boys play baseball, football, basketball, and volleyball. Married to his amazing wife since 2000, Derek takes every opportunity to spend his free time with her and his kids.

Education

Santa Clara University School of Law

Bar Admissions

State Bar of California (2005)
- Certified Family Law Specialist

Practice Areas

Family Law

Awards & Recognition

Super Lawyers for 2024 – 2026

Past Legal Representations And Disposition:

Obtained an award of $22,000 per month in temporary spousal support for the wife of a prominent trucking company owner.
Negotiated custody, visitation and child support in a case involving both MLB and NFL players.
Successfully defended a client during a lengthy trial against serious and documented domestic violence allegations.
Represented several music moguls and/or their wives in contentious dissolution and spousal support proceedings.

Leann C

Highly recommend. Amazing and supportive during a challenging divorce. They understand woman’s rights. The team explains the steps being taken. They know how to handle a spouse that is uncooperative.

Raime G

Mr.Schank did a wonderful job for our case, I can’t thank him enough! The entire team is so helpful, professional and friendly! I highly recommend their services! Thanks again! 🙌🏼

Robert M

I cannot thank Schank Family Law and my attorney, Vanessa Estrada, enough for everything they did for me and my daughter. After a long and difficult custody battle, we achieved a successful outcome, and I truly believe Vanessa’s dedication, knowledge, and hard work played a major role in that victory. From day one, Vanessa genuinely cared about my case. She took the time to understand every detail, remembered every situation, and always made me feel like my case mattered. Her professionalism, preparation, and knowledge of family law gave me confidence throughout one of the most stressful times of my life. What impressed me most was how hard she fought. She never gave up, stayed focused on what was in my child’s best interest, and stood by me every step of the way. Whenever I had questions or concerns, she was responsive, honest, and always prepared. If you’re looking for an attorney who truly cares about her clients, is extremely knowledgeable, and will fight for you until the very end, I highly recommend Vanessa Estrada and Schank Family Law. Thank you, Vanessa, for helping me secure a better future for my daughter and for being such a strong advocate during this journey. I will always be grateful. ❤️

Ash M

I had a awesome phone call with Clarisa she settled me made me feel a lot better took the time to hear me out.. extremely happy I made the appointment with her..

Vivian S

I’m so grateful for Shank Family Law. Christian Schank and Derek Austin helped me so much during an extremely stressful time, and I truly felt like I could fully rely on their knowledge and expertise. Brian in the office was also always so kind and lovely to speak with. Their whole team made me feel supported and taken care of, and honestly helped me sleep better at night knowing I was in good hands. I would never go with anyone else.

Collin w

Shank Family Law was absolutely amazing. Everyone from the attorneys to the staff and secretary was compassionate, professional, and incredibly knowledgeable. They provided so much guidance and support throughout the entire process and truly made me feel cared for during a difficult time. I honestly could not imagine choosing anyone else. I’m beyond grateful for their help and highly recommend them.

Cooper C

Helped me so much

Beverly A

Great Family Lawyers! They really care about their clients and have great communication. I would recommend!

Luke H

Working with Christian Schank was one of the best decisions I could have made during a really difficult time. They are truly the best in the state. Incredibly knowledgeable, always responsive, and they went above and beyond to protect my interests. I felt supported and confident every step of the way, and everything was handled with professionalism and care. I could not recommend them more highly.

Ruff F

Great firm, they are legit in family law cases

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