AALM: What initially drew you to the practice of law? Tell us about your journey to law school and your time spent as a paralegal.
SK: My interest in law began shortly after high school, when my father—a lifelong member of the Communication Workers of America, Local 9400—encouraged me to attend college-level courses on labor negotiations and arbitration that his union was hosting. In those classes, I became fascinated by the strategy behind dispute resolution. Whether in court or arbitration, I was drawn to the idea that preparation and clear advocacy could materially impact someone’s future.
I later became a paralegal at a small firm focused primarily on family law. Working cases from the ground up—drafting pleadings, organizing discovery, preparing for hearings—I developed a practical understanding of litigation long before law school. That hands-on experience shaped how I approach cases today: strategically, methodically, and with a deep respect for both procedural precision and the human stakes involved.
AALM: Were there any particular challenges you faced entering law school and/or the legal profession?
SK: By the time I entered law school, I was working full-time and raising a young child. Balancing professional responsibilities, academic demands, and family life required discipline and structure. It also gave me firsthand insight into the pressures families face when circumstances become uncertain.
That experience informs my approach to family law matters at Berenji Divorce and Family Law Group. Many of our clients are navigating custody disputes, financial strain, and significant life transitions while still trying to remain steady parents and professionals. Having personally managed competing responsibilities during an intense period of life makes me especially attuned to what clients are carrying—both practically and emotionally. It reinforces that strong advocacy must be paired with steady guidance.
AALM: Did you always plan to practice family law?
SK: Family law was a natural progression for me. My years as a paralegal provided a strong foundation in litigation strategy, case management, and client communication. I developed an aptitude for handling complex files and high-conflict matters while maintaining composure and focus.
Family law requires analytical rigor, strategic foresight, and emotional intelligence. It demands careful preparation and the ability to think several steps ahead. I found that I was well-suited to that balance of precision and people-centered advocacy.
AALM: What drew you to Berenji Divorce and Family Law Group?
SK: After being sworn in, I remained at the firm where I had trained, but I was seeking an environment that would challenge me at a higher level. Berenji Divorce and Family Law Group focuses on high-net-worth and complex family law matters, where proactive strategy is essential. These cases require not only strong courtroom skills, but the ability to anticipate financial, business, and long-term implications well before issues reach a hearing.
Hossein Berenji has been an important mentor in my development. He is intentional about building a team that prioritizes preparation, strategic thinking, and compassionate client guidance. What drew me to the firm was its forward-thinking approach—cases are not managed reactively, but with careful planning from the outset. That level of strategic depth, combined with a commitment to handholding clients through a difficult transition with professionalism and care, aligned with how I wanted to practice.
AALM: Tell us about the mentorship you now offer younger attorneys.
SK: As a supervising attorney, I now train and mentor junior attorneys and paralegals. Teaching others requires clarity—if you cannot articulate why a strategy works, you likely have not fully refined it yourself. Mentoring has strengthened my analytical skills and reinforced the importance of structure, preparation, and accountability.
It has also deepened my appreciation for teamwork. Effective family law litigation is rarely a solo effort. Developing younger professionals strengthens the firm and ultimately benefits our clients.
AALM: Looking ahead, what are your goals?
SK: Over the next five to ten years, I aim to continue refining my litigation skills and handling increasingly complex matters. My goal is to be known for disciplined preparation, strategic clarity, and steady advocacy in high-stakes family law cases.
Berenji Divorce & Family Law Group
550 S. Hill St. #1467 Los Angeles, CA 90013
(213) 277-2586
berenjifamilylaw.com
