Emily Hetu, ESQ
Partner
Emily Hetu, CFLS
Emily Hetu has devoted her practice exclusively to family law for her entire career, representing clients in all aspects of complex family law litigation, including dissolution of marriage, child custody and visitation, child and spousal support, and domestic violence restraining orders. Her practice includes high-net-worth matters and the representation of public figures, where discretion, strategic judgment, and sophisticated advocacy are paramount.
Emily is known for her meticulous preparation, commanding courtroom presence, and results-driven advocacy. While she is a formidable litigator, she also recognizes when resolution serves her clients’ best interests and is highly effective in negotiating favorable settlements in even the most contentious matters.
Emily is a Certified Specialist in Family Law by the California Board of Legal Specialization, a distinction awarded to attorneys who have demonstrated a high level of expertise and professionalism in family law. She has also been recognized as a Rising Star by Thomson Reuters every year since 2017 – an honor reserved for no more than 2.5% of attorneys in California.
Early in her career, Emily served as a fellow with the Legal Aid Society of Orange County, where she oversaw the Family Law Clinic and advised clients on dissolution of marriage, parentage, custody, and support issues. During law school, she served as the Note and Comment Editor for the Business Law Review, reflecting her strong legal writing and analytical foundation.
Outside of her practice, Emily is active in her community. She participates in a local book club and volunteers with the Pasadena Playhouse.
Representative Highlights
- Following an 11-day trial, successfully obtained a five-year Domestic Violence Restraining Order protecting Husband and his three minor children, while simultaneously defeating Wife’s retaliatory request for a Domestic Violence Restraining Order.
- Secured a post-judgment modification of custody, obtaining sole legal custody for client after previously existing joint legal custody orders.
Bar Admissions
State of California
U.S. District
Education
Juris Doctor, American University Washington College of Law
International Studies, University of California Irvine
Awards and Scholarships
Rising Star, Super Lawyers
Leadership Endowed Scholarship
National Law Association of Women Lawyers Outstanding Law Student
Order of Merit Recipient
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