Background
Our History
The Law Office of JoAnne M. Biernacki opened its doors in 2011, founded by JoAnne M. Biernacki.
For those intimidated by the legal system, Attorney Biernacki provides a strong yet effective voice. Navigating our court system and domestic relations laws is difficult for those unfamiliar with legal terms and principles. I find satisfaction in helping my clients maneuver difficult circumstances. In addition, I offer a second perspective, dedicating the required attention to your case. Your domestic relations case is a significant part of your life, and I find fulfillment in guiding clients through challenging times, whether they are financial, emotional, or a mix of both. During a case, emotional detachment is extremely difficult to achieve when making certain decisions. I am not only my client’s advocate but a second set of eyes and ears armed with several years of legal knowledge and experience.
My clients have the last word, but I'm their legal advisor, advising and helping them strategize their next move. Effective legal counsel for my clients is my priority. Collaborating closely with clients, we'll explore the viability of their legal matter, considering financial and emotional implications. While I cannot guarantee any specific result, I must advise my client on the probability of success, considering the evidence and resources.
As a California Bar member in good standing, I also have been admitted to the United States District Court for the Northern District of California. John F. Kennedy University School of Law, in the San Francisco Bay Area, is where I received my legal education. I earned a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from San Francisco State University before attending law school. I received approval from the State Bar of California and was certified as a family law specialist in 2024. My certification means that I have demonstrated a specialized level of competence in family law.
All certified specialists must meet the following requirements instituted by the California State Bar.
- Demonstrate a high level of experience in the specialty area by meeting specific task and experience requirements. See the requirements for the Legal Specialization Rules and Standards.
- Complete at least 45 hours of continuing education in the specialty area or a closely related field.
- Receive favorable evaluations from other attorneys and judges.
Family time, kids' activities, leisure travel, and classic car shows are some of my favorite pastimes.
My 1964 Buick Special and 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass are my favorite cars to drive. My home is filled with three healthy, happy, and talented kids, two dogs, and various fish tanks. Driving down Highway 1 to see the coast is one of my favorite things to do; some of my favorite spots include Pismo Beach, Moss Beach, Pebble Beach, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Sausalito and Santa Cruz. I'm a lifelong resident of the greater San Francisco and East Bay areas.
I belong to the Sacramento County Bar, Placer County Bar Association, and San Francisco Trial Lawyers Association.
My law school achievements include receiving the Witkin Award for both Professional Responsibility and Criminal Law. While a certified law student interning for Kamala Harris at the San Francisco District Attorney’s office, I successfully opposed a veteran public defender's motion to suppress evidence. At the District Attorney’s office, my internship involved managing highly sensitive cases of sexual assault and exploitation of minors.
Certifications & Associations
California State Bar Certified Family Law Specialist
Expert Divorce & Family Law Services
Divorce Law
Child Custody and Visitation
Child Custody and Visitation
Our experienced divorce attorneys handle all aspects of divorce proceedings, including property division, spousal support, and child custody.
Child Custody and Visitation
Child Custody and Visitation
Child Custody and Visitation
We help our clients navigate the complex legal issues surrounding child custody, including visitation rights, child support, and custody modifications.
Child and Spousal Support
Child Custody and Visitation
Child and Spousal Support
Our attorneys help clients with child and spousal support issues, including negotiating and modifying support agreements.
Paternity Issues
Child and Spousal Support
We assist clients with paternity disputes, including establishing paternity, contesting paternity, and child support matters.
Property Division
We help our clients navigate the complex legal issues surrounding property division, including asset valuation and division, debt allocation, and equitable distribution.
Mediation and Collaborative Law
We offer alternative dispute resolution services, such as mediation and collaborative law, to help clients resolve family law issues outside of court.