Karissa has over 17 years of experience practicing family law, specializing in child development and trauma-informed representation.
Karissa is the attorney clients turn to when a family law case is as much about people as it is about paperwork. She pairs sharp legal analysis with an emotionally intelligent approach that brings clarity to the most complex and sensitive matters.
With seventeen years of legal experience, Karissa represents clients in a wide range of family law matters, including high-asset and complex cases. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communication from the University of California, San Diego, and her Juris Doctor from the University of San Diego School of Law.
Karissa’s background includes service as an indigent criminal defense and appellate attorney, as well as a former judicial attorney for the Superior Court. Since practicing exclusively in family law, she has represented clients throughout San Diego, Orange, Los Angeles, and Riverside Counties. Since joining Schank Family Law, she now also serves clients on the Central Coast.
Karissa brings a specialized background in child development, particularly in working with children on the autism spectrum, and is certified to represent children as minors’ counsel. She applies trauma-informed practices in cases involving custody, visitation, and domestic violence restraining orders. She also has extensive experience working with individuals affected by substance use disorders and parties who exhibit narcissistic personality disorder traits.
Straightforward and analytical, Karissa takes an emotionally intelligent approach to representation and is committed to helping clients understand their options as they navigate the legal process with clarity and confidence. She handles matters involving significant financial issues, high-asset disputes, custody issues, support matters, domestic violence, complex fact patterns, and legal issues of first impression.
A fierce advocate, Karissa capitalizes on her effective writing and presentation skills in all levels of representation. Her command of legal research and attention to detail allow her to approach cases strategically and decisively. Whether assisting clients seeking an amicable resolution or advocating assertively in contested matters, Karissa dedicates herself to providing thoughtful, individualized representation grounded in preparation, integrity, personal attention, and care.
Attorney Christian L. Schank founded Schank Family Law in 2003. With eight offices and a Certified Family Law Specialist on staff, the firm handles divorce, custody, support, and property matters in courts across the state.
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