Vanessa Candelaria’s unwavering dedication to family law has made her a beacon of compassion and advocacy in her field. With a Juris Doctorate degree from Golden Gate University School of Law and a background in English and Psychology and Social Behavior from the University of California – Irvine, Vanessa's academic prowess laid the foundation for her illustrious career.
Throughout her legal career, Vanessa has demonstrated unparalleled expertise across a breadth of family law matters, including divorce, pre-divorce counseling, premarital agreements, and complex marital property issues. Her adept handling of high-conflict child custody disputes, child and spousal support matters, and domestic violence cases underscores her commitment to safeguarding the well-being of her clients and their families.
In 2014, Vanessa started her law firm with the goal of providing excellent service to her clients and being a leader within her community. Over 10 years later, the firm now serves the San Francisco Bay Area, San Diego and Orange County communities.
Not only is Vanessa passionate about the law, but she is also dedicated to the legal community. Vanessa's former leadership roles include Vice-President of Membership for the National Filipino American Lawyers Association (NFALA), Board Member of the Diversity Equity and Inclusion Committee of the Contra Costa County Bar Association, Board Member of the Family Law Section of the Contra Costa County Bar Association and Co-Chair of the Family Law Section of the San Mateo County Bar Association. She currently serves as a Founder and Board Member of Pinay Powerhouse, and Advisory Board Member of the Filipino Bar Association of Northern California (FBANC), where she also served as a past president. She remains committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, evident through her involvement in various bar associations and committees.
Vanessa's contributions to the legal profession have garnered widespread recognition, including consecutive inclusions in the prestigious Northern California Super Lawyers List from 2021 to 2025, and prior acknowledgments as a Rising Star from 2015 to 2020. Vanessa has also received the distinct recognition of Best Under 40 from the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA). These accolades underscore her status as a top-tier legal practitioner, embodying excellence and integrity in every facet of her work.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Vanessa's altruistic spirit shines through her extensive pro bono work and mentorship of aspiring legal professionals, reflecting her steadfast commitment to building the pipeline for future lawyers and advancing the cause of justice. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, staying active and spending time with friends and family.