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Attorney Profile

About the Founder

Derek Birkeland

After a number of years practicing in house, working on negotiating agreements for financial firms, Derek decided that it is time to get back to his roots and purpose, helping people navigate an often complex legal system.
Everything changed when he began meeting women navigating high-conflict custody cases and situations involving domestic abuse. He saw how overwhelming the legal system can feel for someone already facing fear, uncertainty, and emotional exhaustion. In those moments, Derek discovered a deeper purpose: helping people find protection, clarity, and a path forward.
He transitioned his practice to family law with a focus on trauma-informed advocacy. Derek believes legal representation should not only be strategic and effective, but also grounded in compassion, patience, and respect for what clients are going through.
While Derek represents clients of all backgrounds, he is especially committed to supporting women facing difficult family transitions. Many women entering the legal system are dealing with power imbalances, fear, or years of being unheard. Derek’s approach centers on active listening, clear guidance, and creating a space where clients feel safe, supported, and confident as they move forward.
Derek practices trauma-informed advocacy, which means the legal strategy is built with an understanding of how stress, fear, and past harm can affect decision-making and communication.
In practice, this means:
  • Taking time to listen and understand the full story
  • Explaining legal options clearly so clients feel informed and in control
  • Prioritizing emotional safety and respectful communication
  • Helping clients move forward at a pace that feels manageable
  • Advocating firmly in court while protecting the client’s dignity and voice
The goal is not only strong legal representation, but a process where clients feel supported, respected, and safe while navigating difficult decisions.
Family law issues can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with stress at home. Derek offers clear guidance, compassionate support, and strong legal advocacy to help you move forward with confidence.
He provides representation in the following areas:
  • Divorce (contested and uncontested)
  • Child custody and parenting time
  • Child support
  • Property division
  • Spousal maintenance (alimony)
  • Paternity matters
  • Adoption
  • Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
  • Orders for Protection and domestic violence matters
Every situation is different, so Derek offers a few ways to get legal help depending on what you need.

Initial Consultation

A set-fee meeting where you can talk through your situation, ask questions, and understand your options before deciding what to do next.

Document Preparation

Flat-rate services for help preparing court paperwork, drafting agreements, or reviewing documents. This option can be helpful if you need legal guidance but don’t need full representation.

Full Representation

For cases that require ongoing advocacy, Derek offers hourly representation to guide you through each stage of the legal process.

Flexible Payment Options

Legal help should feel accessible, not overwhelming. In some situations, flexible payment plans or sliding-scale options may be available to help ease financial pressure.

Trauma-Informed Advocacy

Many people entering family court are dealing with more than legal stress. They may be navigating fear, past abuse, or years of feeling unheard. Legal processes can sometimes make those experiences feel even more overwhelming.

Payment Plans

In some situations, flexible payment arrangements may be available to help make legal support more accessible.
The goal is simple: you should always understand your options, your rights, and your costs before moving forward.