Grace Massarelli is all about helping her clients write their next chapter as a family attorney at Gailor Hunt. “I gauge success for my clients by helping them develop their second act and seeing the newfound confidence they have in themselves as they start their ‘new normal,’” explained Massarelli.
“Few people ever expect to find themselves in a divorce attorney’s office, and when they do, it’s often one of the most difficult moments of their lives. Many of my clients come to me feeling lost, uncertain, and unsure of their future. My goal is to help them not just navigate the legal process but to emerge stronger, more confident, and fully equipped to take control of their own lives, financially, emotionally and personally.
“For those who were kept in the dark about their household finances during marriage, I want to ensure they leave my office with the knowledge and confidence to manage their own financial well-being, so they are never in a position of vulnerability again,” explained Massarelli.
“Ultimately the best ‘revenge’ isn’t bitterness or anger, it’s living well, with independence, strength, and a renewed sense of self.”
Massarelli initially aspired to teach, hoping “to have an impact on kids.” But after witnessing her parents’ contentious divorce, she saw first-hand how lawyers could support families. “As one of five children, I watched my mother’s lawyers guide her through the hardest storm of her life. That’s what inspired me to become a lawyer, to help families through their hardest storms.”
Balancing Crisis and Long-Term Success
Massarelli navigates high-conflict custody cases, equitable distribution, alimony, and marital agreements with a dual focus – managing immediate crises while setting clients up for long-term stability.
“I address both the micro and macro levels, what clients and their children need now and what will help them move forward,” she explained
“Litigating high-conflict custody cases can feel like endless warfare, making it hard for parents to assess when to stop fighting. Alimony battles often add another layer of uncertainty, with vastly different views on what’s fair.”
“Family court should be a last resort, but I’m always prepared for it. I will never be the attorney who says, ‘let’s give in on this term or that’ just to avoid a fight.” Massarelli added, “determining whether ‘the fight’ is worth it requires a cost-benefit analysis for each of my clients. Some issues, like the safety of your children, are always worth fighting for. Others may be better resolved by compromising as the ‘price for peace’.”
The Power of Mock trial and Mentorship
As a student at Campbell Law School, Massarelli excelled in regional and national Client Counseling Competitions, winning first place three times. She now coaches at Campbell. Her team flew to Oklahoma to compete earlier this year bringing home second place in the region.
She also is committed to mentoring youths and nurturing their interest in the law. She coaches a high school YMCA Youth & Government mock trial team. “I love working with motivated students, teaching them resilience, and showing them that setbacks aren’t as big or scary as they seem.”
Community commitment is central to Massarelli’s values. “I didn’t get here alone, and I don’t believe anyone truly does. Giving back isn’t an obligation—it’s a privilege. Real change happens when we show up for each other.”
