Lorie Nachlis

Lorie S. Nachlis is a San Francisco family law attorney with more than 40 years of experience representing clients in complex family law matters. She is certified by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization in Family Law and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and the International Academy of Family Lawyers. At Nachlis Cohade Lopez-Whitaker LLP, Ms. Nachlis represents clients in divorce, child custody, support, property division, mediation, and other family law proceedings throughout San Francisco and the Bay Area.

Before focusing her practice exclusively on family law in the early 1990s, Ms. Nachlis gained substantial jury trial experience in both California state and federal courts. During that same period, she also mediated disputes involving parents of special education students and school districts across California. Her background in litigation and mediation allows her to evaluate each client’s circumstances carefully while pursuing practical and thoughtful resolutions. When litigation becomes necessary, she is prepared to advocate for her clients in court.

Ms. Nachlis works closely with clients to develop strategies that align with their long-term goals and priorities. In matters involving children, she maintains a strong focus on the best interests of the children while helping parents address custody and parenting concerns. Depending on the needs of the case, she may collaborate with financial professionals, mental health professionals, and other consultants to assist in developing effective solutions.

Throughout her career, Ms. Nachlis has received recognition from legal organizations, peers, and members of the judiciary for her work in family law and her commitment to public service. In 2003, the San Francisco Recorder recognized her among the Bay Area’s distinguished family law attorneys. She received the Award of Merit from the San Francisco Bar Association as well as multiple awards for her pro bono service. Former California Supreme Court Chief Justice Ronald George appointed her to serve on the Elkins Family Law Task Force, where she worked on the review and revision of California family law policies and procedures. Ms. Nachlis was also named Fellow of the Year by the Northern California Chapter of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and has been selected to Northern California Super Lawyers from 2004 through 2026. In 2024, she was inducted into the Association of Certified Family Law Specialists Hall of Fame for her contributions to the practice of family law and her commitment to ethical standards.

Originally from Kingston, Pennsylvania, Ms. Nachlis moved to San Francisco with her young son to attend the University of California, Hastings College of the Law. Outside of her legal practice, she enjoys spending time with her family, including her children, grandchildren, and dogs. She is also an avid scuba diver.