Leslie A. Ryland, CLS-F, is a seasoned attorney who has spent the last three decades representing clients in all types of family law matters, with a special focus on custody issues. She is a Certified Family Law Specialist, a special designation from the State Bar of California reserved for attorneys who have “demonstrated a high level of experience in the specialty field, fulfilled ongoing education requirements and been favorably evaluated by other attorneys and judges familiar with their work.”
Certified Family Law Specialist: A Rare Legal Distinction
While Leslie has successfully litigated hundreds of family law disputes, including complex financial matters and highly contested custody cases, she is also a skilled mediator. Leslie is always prepared to take a case to court if needed, but prefers to work with both parties to either negotiate a mediated settlement or participate in a collaborative divorce.
Custody Disputes and Mediation: Leslie’s Approach to Family Law
Leslie began her legal career at a large San Diego law firm, working on a variety of business litigation and transactional matters as well as handling some estate planning and bankruptcy work. A mother of five children, Leslie later found that she had a passion for family law and helping individuals and families resolve their issues as amicably as possible.
Leslie Ryland’s Legal Journey: From Business Litigation to Family Law
A leader in San Diego’s legal community, Leslie is a Past President of Collaborative Practice San Diego, an association of attorneys, mental health professionals, and financial advisors working to promote collaborative processes and peaceful resolution of family law issues. She has also served on the Board of Directors of the North County Bar Association and the San Diego Family Law Bar Association.
Leadership in the San Diego Legal Community
Leslie earned her bachelor’s degree, Summa Cum Laude, from the University of California San Diego, and her law degree from the UCLA School of Law. She has been named to the Best Lawyers list every year since 2017 and the Super Lawyers list since 2020.
Accolades and Recognition: Best Lawyers & Super Lawyers Listings
Leslie was also featured as one of the Best Divorce Attorneys in San Diego of 2024 by Forbes Advisor.
A San Diego Native with a Love for the Outdoors
A San Diego native, Leslie spent her early years living in Pine Valley before moving to Mammoth Lakes for junior high and high school. In October of this year, Leslie will attend Mammoth High School’s 50th Anniversary as a member of the first class to attend seventh through twelfth grade. Leslie still enjoys the outdoors. In her free time, you can find her happily hiking in San Diego’s canyons and mountains with one or another of her adult children.
View the Article in The Latest Issue Of Discover Magazine pg. 32
