Sonja helps clients with matrimonial and family law, including custody, parenting time, property distribution, spousal maintenance and all areas of dissolution practice. She also handles family law appellate issues and drafts antenuptial (prenuptial) agreements.
Sonja has been granted fellowship in the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, a distinction shared by only a few attorneys in Minnesota.
Sonja strives to conclude marital dissolution matters amicably and economically, through conflict resolution. When cases are not conducive to settlement, however, she draws on an arsenal of knowledge to advocate for her clients. In addition to her law degree, Sonja holds an LL.M. (Master of Laws) degree in tax and estate planning. Her education, combined with more than 20 years of experience in family law, gives her a keen ability to assist clients with high income, substantial net worth, and complex financial holdings.
Recognizing the financial and emotional components in every proceeding, Sonja applies her detailed knowledge of tax strategies, business valuation, and cash flow to quickly analyze the case and develop a plan for swift resolution that minimizes conflict. In order to help clients maintain dignity and respect during this traumatic period, Sonja frequently encourages her clients to participate in mediation. She seeks to diminish the effects of divorce on children and families. When reasoned negotiation does not facilitate resolution, Sonja, an experienced litigator, advocates aggressively for her clients.
Sonja currently serves as a member of the planning committee for the Family Law Institute.
Presentations
"Seven Things Every Family Lawyer Should Know About Estate Planning," 2007 Family Law Institute
“Top 10 Mistakes Committed by Family Law Attorneys,” 2003 Family Law Institute
"Protecting Family Wealth in the Event of Divorce," presented to:
- Lowry Hill Private Wealth Management, February 2004
- U.S. Bank Private Client Group, February 2006
- U.S. Trust, March 2006
- Wells Fargo Private Client Services, May 2006
- Meristem, June 2006