“Patricia C. Van Haren is a leading voice in collaborative family law, guiding clients toward constructive resolutions with clarity, care and strategic insight. Her commitment to reducing conflict and fostering lasting agreements makes her a trusted adviser for families navigating change.”

Fantastic Lawyers® Editorial 2026

Patricia C. Van Haren is a Partner and highly regarded collaborative family law attorney and mediator, with over two decades of experience in family law. Based in California, she is widely recognised for helping couples resolve disputes constructively, with a strong focus on avoiding litigation wherever possible.

What Patricia Van Haren does

Patricia specialises in collaborative family law and mediation, advising clients on:

• Collaborative divorce and out-of-court dispute resolution
• Family law mediation and settlement negotiations
• Child custody and visitation arrangements
• Child and spousal support
• Property and financial division
• Paternity matters
• Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements

She leads a dedicated team focused on helping clients navigate separation and divorce in a constructive, efficient, and forward-thinking way.

Why she stands out

Patricia is recognised as one of California’s leading collaborative divorce lawyers, known for her ability to guide even the most high-conflict situations towards resolution. Her approach is pragmatic, solutions-driven, and focused on achieving fair outcomes without the emotional and financial cost of litigation.

She is particularly skilled at helping couples reach mutual understanding and agreement, even in complex or emotionally charged cases. Her work in prenuptial and postnuptial agreements is equally respected, with a focus on creating clear, durable agreements that stand the test of time.

As President of Collaborative Practice California and Collaborative Divorce Solutions of Orange County, she plays a leading role in shaping collaborative law practices across the state.

Trust markers

• Partner and collaborative family law specialist with over 21 years of experience
• President of Collaborative Practice California
• President of Collaborative Divorce Solutions of Orange County
• 2024 Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers Magazine
• 2023 Eureka Award for contributions to collaborative practice
• Super Lawyers Rising Star (2015–2021)
• Top Family Law Attorney, Daily Journal
• Active member of multiple collaborative law and mediation organisations

Reputation and client approach

Patricia is known for her calm, strategic and empathetic approach. She works closely with clients to ensure they are fully informed and supported throughout the divorce process, helping them make confident and well-informed decisions.

Her focus is on reducing conflict, preserving relationships where possible, and delivering outcomes that work for families in the long term.

Thought leadership and education

Patricia is a recognised thought leader in collaborative family law. She regularly publishes articles, produces educational content, hosts workshops, and speaks at industry events. She is also the author of a book designed to help individuals better understand the divorce process.

Her work reflects a strong commitment to educating both clients and the wider public, ensuring that people have access to clear, practical guidance when navigating family law issues.