As a family law attorney, my primary focus is to support clients through the legal process so they may transition into the next chapter of their lives Prior to representing clients, I worked as judicial law clerk in Hennepin County Family Court. Working side-by-side with judges, I gained an immense understanding of family court procedure, and how judges decide cases. I translate that experience to my practice every day, assisting clients in making the best decisions for their families.
I have experience representing clients in all aspects of family law cases, including divorce proceeding, child custody and support matters, paternity actions, Orders for Protection, grandparent visitation cases. I have advised clients on issues relating to child custody and parenting time, property division, child support, spousal maintenance, enforcement of orders, and modification of orders relating to custody, parenting time and support. I also have experience dealing with the unique challenges that arise during a divorce when a member of the family is a non-US citizen, including addressing immigration issues, implications under the affidavit of support (Form I-864), and international travel with children.
I am committed to providing families with dedicated legal care. I take pride in advocating for families to deliver long-term, sustainable solutions. I look forward to getting to know my clients and their families as I guide you through the process.
Outside of the courtroom, I can usually be found walking my two feitsy chihuahuas, at the rink attempting to play hockey, or seeking out the best burger in the Twin Cities (current top contender- Lake & Irving).
EDUCATION
University of St. Thomas School of Law, Minneapolis, MN
graduated cum laude
Senior Editor of the St. Thomas Law Journal
Dean's Award- Property Law and Administrative Law
(highest grade in the class)
University of Minnesota- Twin Cities
Bachelor of Arts in Journalism
summa cum laude with distinction
PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
Minnesota State Bar Association
Hennepin County Bar Association
Minnesota State Bar Association North Star Lawyer
Association of Family and Conciliation Courts
Minnesota Chapter- Board Member 2013-2020
Minnesota Chapter- Vice President 2015-2020
Public Relations Committee Chair 2015-2020
Family Law League
Board Member 2014- 2021
Vice President 2015-2019
President 2020-2021
SuperLawyer
2022
SuperLawyers Rising Star
2016-2020
VOLUNTEER POSITIONS
Hennepin County Limited Scope Attorney Panel
Volunteer Lawyers Network, Volunteer Attorney
Legal Assistance of Dakota County, Volunteer Attorney
Minnesota Superbowl Host Committee, Volunteer
University of Minnesota Undergraduate Mock Trial, Attorney Coach 2010-2015
PUBLICATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
Don't Leave Money on the Table: How to Analyze a
Settlement like a Financial Expert
Minnesota CLE Family Law Institute
March 2020 & March 2021
Navigating Debt and Credit Issues in a Divorce
Minnesota CLE Family Law Institute
March 2019
The Intersection of Family and Real Estate Law:
What Every Real Estate Practitioner Needs to Know
MN CLE Presentation
January 2019
Intersection between Family Law and Immigration
Presentation before the Family Law League
February 2016
How to Handle Holiday Parenting Time
Presentation before the Family Law League
December 2015
Editor of the Family Law Section of The Judge Handbook
Minnesota District Judges Association
2013 and 2014
Contempt in Family Court
Presentation to Hennepin County Law Clerks
Fall 2013 and Fall 2014
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
"Courtney was very helpful throughout my divorce. She was always very courteous, acted professionally, and eased my mind in a difficult time in my life. My case was completed in a very timely manner and I credit her organizational skills and the wonderful staff she works with. I definitely would HIGHLY recommend Courtney!"
"This was my first experience having to hire an attorney for a family matter. Courtney listened to my concerns and helped me do what was best for my family. She was very professional and organized. Ms. Schneider and her team always kept me updated on our case. She was also very genuine and easy to work with. I am hoping we will not need her in the future but if we do, she will be the first person we call. Thanks again, Courtney!"
"Courtney helped me out a great deal. I was paying over a 1k a month for my sons child support though I was old making under 35 a year. She was able to get it reduced by a huge amount and get back money they had garnished though I paid on time every month. I spoke to three other lawyers before her that were not willing to help because they felt everything was correct. Courtney discovered many clerical error in payments and supported me the whole way through. I am very greatful for her help and plan to stay with her in the future. Thank you so much! You really helped my family out alot. Now we can move on with our lives and try to purchase a home. This has been 3 year battles that she ended in a few months."
"It was a pleasure working with Courtney. I have never had to work with a lawyer before so I was nervous about the entire process. She provided great customer service in that she validated my feelings and took the time to patiently explain the process and was available to answer any questions along the way. I also appreciated her timely follow-up as well. She turned my case around quickly and I would recommend her to anyone seeking the services she provides."