In a recent episode of Experts Explain Everything, Modern Family Law Partner Cynthia Griffin unpacks how the family law landscape is evolving, driven by nuanced emotional dynamics, shifting societal expectations, and an increasing need for empathetic legal guidance. With a focus on divorce, custody, and support, Cynthia breaks down what makes family law distinct and often more complex than criminal law.
Cynthia Griffin begins the interview by explaining how the field of family law is expanding and why it stands apart from other legal practices. She emphasizes that family law cases often deal with intensely personal issues like divorce, custody, and child support, where emotional stakes are high and legal outcomes shape everyday life. “It’s not about guilt or innocence, it’s about helping people move forward in the middle of a personal crisis.”
Unlike criminal law, which is focused on justice and punishment, family law revolves around relationships, care, and responsibility. The outcomes aren’t measured in verdicts alone but in long-term impact on families and children.
Cynthia emphasizes that in family law, knowledge of statutes isn’t enough; empathy is essential. “It requires both legal tools and human empathy.”
Family law attorneys often find themselves supporting clients through some of life’s most painful transitions: divorce, custody disputes, and high-conflict parenting issues. According to Cynthia, being an effective advocate means understanding not just what the law says, but how clients are feeling, and anticipating what they may need emotionally.
This insight aligns with the importance of navigating divorce anxiety and helping clients feel heard and supported during an overwhelming time.
While family and criminal law are typically separate, Cynthia points out their overlap in serious and sensitive cases. “There are delicate points where the two intersect, particularly in cases involving domestic violence or child welfare.”
She explains that family law attorneys must stay alert when allegations of abuse, neglect, or protective orders are involved. In these situations, criminal charges may affect a parent’s custody rights or visitation schedule. Cynthia stresses that navigating these crossovers demands both legal precision and a trauma-informed approach.
If you’re facing a situation involving domestic violence or protective orders, read our resource on when family law meets criminal law.
With years of experience helping families navigate parenting plans and child support, Cynthia emphasizes that no two custody cases are ever the same. Each family brings a unique set of circumstances, emotions, and challenges to the table, and the outcome of these cases can profoundly shape a child’s life.
Cynthia stresses that decisions around custody and support aren’t just legal, they’re deeply personal and emotionally charged. The goal isn’t to “win” a case, but to find a resolution that protects the child’s well-being, stability, and long-term development.
She advocates for thoughtful, individualized solutions that reflect each family’s lived reality, rather than applying generic templates. Cynthia’s insights reflect a core truth of family law: when children are involved, empathy and nuance must guide every legal decision.
Want to hear Cynthia’s insights in her own words? In this compelling episode of Experts Explain Everything, she shares thoughtful guidance on divorce, custody, and the emotional dynamics that shape family law. Tune in below to explore the full discussion.
Cynthia Griffin’s interview offers a powerful look into the evolving field of family law, a practice area growing in both complexity and emotional depth. Her central message is clear: today’s family law attorneys must bring more than legal knowledge to the table. They must also lead with empathy, adaptability, and a deep understanding of the human experiences behind every case. Whether helping clients through a difficult divorce or advocating for a child’s best interests in custody matters, Cynthia shows that family law is as much about compassion as it is about counsel.
Cynthia Griffin is a Partner at Modern Family Law, specializing in divorce, child support, and custody. With broad courtroom experience and a compassionate approach, Cynthia guides clients through emotionally charged legal processes. Her work reflects a belief that every family deserves dedicated advocacy and personalized solutions.
Employee Spotlight
From Prosecutor To Protector: Alex Jennings’ Legal…At Modern Family Law, we believe great attorneys come from a variety of paths. Whether they’re just starting or bring years of experience, each…
Events
Litigation vs. Collaboration: Unpacking The Realities Of…Modern Family Law recently hosted a compelling LinkedIn Live Roundtable featuring managing attorneys from across the country discussing the topic of collaborative divorce versus…
Employee Spotlight
Liz Milewski’s Mission To Redefine Family LawFor many family law attorneys, their career path begins in law school. For Liz Milewski, the path to family law was personal, shaped by…