Serving San Jose and beyond Family Law Attorney San Jose

A Phenomenal Divorce Attorney Jun 10, 2025

Magdalena is a phenomenal divorce attorney—a fierce advocate who gets justice! If you’re facing a high-conflict divorce—especially with a manipulative or narcissistic opponent—you need THE BEST in your corner. Magdalena was nothing short of extraordinary, and I cannot recommend her enough. She is exceptional because she is a brilliant strategist. Her legal mind is razor-sharp. She anticipates every move, dismantles lies, and crafts airtight strategies that leave no room for manipulation. Her ability to expose deceit and hold the other side accountable is unmatched! Magdalena and her team are compassionate yet fierce—she doesn’t just fight for you; she stands with you. Her compassion gave me strength, but her relentless determination in court was awe-inspiring. She doesn’t back down—she dominates. She is an absolute terror to narcissists—if your ex is playing mind games, she shuts them down. She quickly detects manipulation, exposes gaslighting, and dismantles false narratives using objective, factual information. Watching her in the court hearings and deposition was like watching a master tactician at work. Magdalena is more than a lawyer—a mentor. She didn’t just win my case; she rebuilt my confidence. She guided me through emotional turmoil, made me stronger, and gave me my life back. I walked away with justice, fairness, and my dignity intact. The outcome of hiring Magdalena was total victory in a brutal, high-conflict divorce. She exposed lies and secured what was rightfully mine. She empowered me to stand tall against intimidation. If you need a lawyer who fights like a lion, thinks ten steps ahead, and genuinely cares about your future, she is THE ONE. Don’t settle for less—hire her, and you’ll walk away not just with a win, but with your life restored. 10/10—Would recommend Magdalena Law Group without hesitation.

sowmya reddy

Excellent Team Apr 18, 2025

Ms. Smith and team were excellent. I could not have had a better result than what they helped provide.

Dan Evans

They Got My Back Mar 5, 2025

I had a very bad case of family matter and Magdalena’s group got my back. Very pleased with all their effort and all their hard work and knowledge. Ms. Moksha, Claire, Lana, Megan, and Pamela made my life so much better. We had a very difficult case and they got through it!

Jr Gonzalez

Women Who Stand for Truth Feb 20, 2025

Magdalena, Moksha, and all of the crew from the front desk and behind the scenes, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I know my children will thank you in the future as well. Women, who stand for truth, and got me my kids back. It's a process but their pursuit for the truth and helping fathers with difficult co-parents is a thing of beauty. My last lawyer didn’t have the grit and passion like Magdalena, Moksha, and the staff. Absolutely recommend from a father who’s trying to lead his children on the right path. - Javier C.

Javier Castaneda

The Best Lawyer I've Talked To Jan 15, 2025

I spoke to Lawyer Magdalena yesterday for almost an hour for a free consultation. She's very passionate/warm-hearted and put my situation into her shoes. She gave very clear advice and provided very detailed information about what needs to be done. She didn't rush throughout the consultation and took time with me. That's what matters most to the clients. Thank you, Lawyer Magdalena. I would give her 5 stars for the best lawyer that I've talked to.

Anh-Thu Nguyen

Moksha's Expertise Made a Difference Dec 6, 2024

I highly recommend Moksha and her team for anyone in need of a skilled lawyer. I am incredibly grateful for the help I received during my drug case. Moksha's expertise and guidance made a significant difference in my life. I was initially facing 12 years in prison, but thanks to her efforts, my sentence was reduced to just 6 months in county jail. Moksha's advice was invaluable, and I diligently followed her recommendations, which ultimately helped me secure a much lighter sentence. It was a pleasure working with her, and I can't thank her enough for her support and dedication. If you're looking for a great lawyer, look no further than Moksha and her team. Thank you once again!

Rey Fernandez

Broad Experience for Clients Oct 30, 2024

The thing I appreciate most about Magdalena attorney Moksha Smith is that she is able to bring her experience as a former prosecutor to both her criminal defense practice AND her family law practice. Many family law lawyers don't have experience trying criminal cases or appearing on probation matters. Her broad experience gives her a wide range of tools for her clients. I also found that she was friendly, approachable, and professional!

Justin Chou

Empathy, Expertise, and Advocacy Oct 24, 2024

Empathy, Expertise, and Exceptional Advocacy: I had consulted with a lot of other well-reviewed Bay Area attorneys, but very few of them could make informed and structured recommendations after consults. After my first consultation with Moksha Smith, I knew I would be in the hands of an empathetic, incredibly sharp, and domain expert attorney. From the moment I engaged Moksha Smith to represent me, I’ve felt a sense of reassurance and professionalism that instantly put me at ease during what is undoubtedly one of the most emotionally taxing periods of my life. Moksha Smith has not only demonstrated an in-depth understanding of law but also exhibited a remarkable level of empathy and compassion throughout the entire process. She takes the time to listen attentively to my concerns, addressing each one with patience and understanding. I tend to ramble on sometimes, but she has this amazing way of gently steering me back to what truly matters for the case. I felt genuinely cared for and supported every step of the way. MLG & team's attention to detail and expertise in strategy coupled with stellar teamwork and collaboration are just a few of the remarkable qualities that set them apart and make them truly exceptional. I am sure going forward their courtroom presence will be impressive, showcasing their persuasive advocacy skills and deep expertise in law to drive the best results for their clients. Thank you to the whole team for the countless hours, knowledge and expertise, efforts, and passion in your work. It is because of people like you that faith in the goodness of humanity is restored.

Shvetabh Mahajan

Moksha is AMAZING! Oct 4, 2024

This review is written from the bottom of my heart as I cannot express my gratitude and appreciation to Moksha and her team in my defense against very serious false criminal charges that had been brought against me. I had to learn patience while the case was being worked, but it was worth every bit of the wait. I have been told that the particular charges I was facing are never dropped at the Preliminary Examination, and yet, Moksha, who did a stellar job at questioning the alleged victim, victim’s mother, and the police officer to bring out the truth and ultimately justice, when the judge made his ruling to drop these false charges against me. She is AMAZING and deserves much more than 5 stars!

Muru channur

Outstanding Attorney and Team Jun 13, 2024

Magdalena is an outstanding attorney, and her team is equally impressive. I had the pleasure of working with Magdalena and her team, and their excellent legal service was invaluable. First and foremost, Magdalena is a formidable attorney in court. She prepares documents meticulously, presenting compelling arguments to the judges. She delves deeply into each case, thoroughly understanding the legal context. Her profound and broad knowledge, coupled with her team's support, ensures each case is well-prepared. Magdalena excels in arguing and proving her points, demonstrating exceptional communication skills, rhetorical prowess, and strategic timing. Additionally, Magdalena and her team excel in client communication and case preparation. They help clients deeply understand their cases, design effective strategies, and prepare meticulously for every court hearing. Magdalena takes the time to explain every point to her clients, ensuring they stay informed and aware of all potential outcomes. In my experience, few attorneys communicate as effectively with their clients as Magdalena. The work ethic of Magdalena and her team is incredible. They work overtime, ensuring no missed deadlines, procedural errors, or unprepared cases. Magdalena's dedication often sees her working extra hours to assist her clients. The team’s competence extends beyond legal expertise to all aspects of their work, including prompt communication, providing necessary information, and responding rapidly to client requests. I also worked with Moksha, another great attorney on her team. I wholeheartedly recommend Magdalena and her Law Group.

Andriy Lopatenko

Exceptional Service! May 31, 2024

Moksha Smith and the rest of the Magdalena Law team were exceptional! They provided excellent work and service. My case had a lot of evidence that they read through meticulously to put together the best case, which resulted in an outcome that exceeded my expectations. If I ever need representation again, they're the first team that I'm calling.

Jacqueline LaGrange

Exemplary Divorce Service May 8, 2024

I cannot express enough gratitude for the exemplary service provided by Magdalena Law Group (MLG) during my ongoing divorce proceedings. From the moment that I hired them, I've felt a sense of reassurance and professionalism that instantly put me at ease during what is undoubtedly one of the most emotionally taxing periods of my life. Moksha Smith has not only demonstrated an in-depth understanding of family law but also exhibited a remarkable level of empathy and compassion throughout the entire process. She takes the time to listen attentively to my concerns, addressing each one with patience and understanding. This personalized approach made me feel like more than just another client; I felt genuinely cared for and supported every step of the way. Her expertise in navigating the complexities of family court was evident in her strategic guidance and meticulous attention to detail. Moksha’s provided clear explanations of legal procedures and potential outcomes, empowering me to make informed decisions about my case. Her dedication to achieving the best possible outcome for me and my family was unwavering, and I felt confident in her abilities at every stage of the proceedings. Not only did Moksha advocate fiercely on my behalf in the courtroom, but she also fostered an atmosphere of collaboration and respect, encouraging amicable resolutions whenever possible. Her commitment to finding peaceful solutions amidst the chaos of divorce has been truly commendable. Thanks to Moksha's tireless efforts and unwavering support, I am able to move forward with confidence and peace of mind, knowing that my best interests were upheld with integrity and professionalism. I wholeheartedly recommend MLG to anyone in need of exceptional legal representation during challenging family law matters.

Amy Gulati

Outstanding & Superb Result! Apr 28, 2024

I was referred by a dear close friend. Without hesitation, I contacted Magdalena Chattopadhya of Magdalena Law Firm. I am very blessed & appreciative to have the entire team (Magdalena, Moksha, Rutika, Pam, Claire, Jasmine, and Julie) provided me guidance/counseling, worked carefully, and answered every question/concern I had which relieved my extreme distress, anxiety & confusion of an emotional divorce. These attorneys (Magdalena & Moksha) have prime knowledge & expertise of the law, they delivered OUTSTANDING & SUPERB RESULT!!! I am FOREVER THANKFUL!

Chris K

Excellence in Family Law Oct 6, 2023

Moksha Smith, Claire Swann, and The Magdalena Law Group is the excellence in family law. After I received my dissolution of marriage, I felt lost in a dark room not knowing where to start. I was recommended to The Magdalena Law Group, and they quickly set up an appointment with Moksha Smith. During the appointment, Moksha made me feel like I had somebody that will defend me. I hired The Magdalena Law Group to defend me during this process. Claire Swann is on top of all the legal paperwork that needs to be submitted. I’m truly grateful that Moksha, Claire, and The Magdalena Law Group are representing me during this process. I highly recommend The Magdalena Law Group because they defend their clients the right way and based on the law.

Gerardo Peinado

Magdalena Law Group is THE choice Sep 2, 2023

I contacted Magdalena Chattopadhya of Magdalena Law Group three years ago as I went about interviewing (5) separate law firms in the San Jose area. My effort was to replace my attorneys at the time related to my family law case that had been in effect for over 10 years. My case was related to a divorce in 2008 where my ex moved to CA and took our two boys with her. The divorce matter was resolved, but the custody disputes were ongoing and intense. We never went more than a year without being in the courtroom, where my ex-wife attempted over and over again to reduce my parenting time. When my boys wanted to come and live with me, it hit the fan and an Emergency Screening was ordered. Then, a Parenting Coordinator was assigned. Apparently, a Parenting Coordinator should generally work to reduce issues, but our assigned coordinator did not work fairly. I didn't know what to do and my current attorneys didn't have much to offer. I wanted someone to fiercely represent me and pursue what I knew was right! Magdalena jumped in and had to review over a decade of material and circumstances. I was constantly surprised by how much information she digested and knew without being prompted. Not only did she keep us out of the courtroom for the remainder of time left until my youngest turned 18, but she silenced the efforts of my ex-wife and her attorney and also silenced the Parenting Coordinator who, in my opinion, poorly handled the case and should not serve as such in good faith. Magdalena herself helped me to do exactly what was needed in order to prevail. Even when I would be exasperated over the ridiculousness and contentiousness of the PC, OP, and my ex-wife, she assured me that if I followed her counsel, we would prevail - and we did! Had I remained with my former counsel or selected anyone else, I could not imagine having survived the legal attacks as I did. If you're looking for someone who won't "blow sunshine" and, instead, give it to you straight and compel you to understand, Magdalena Law Group is THE choice. As an aside, everything with her office is smooth. Payments, documentation support, meetings, etc., - the team at Magdalena Law Group is smart, quick to act, and at your service, as they were at mine. I am beyond grateful for the services rendered and recommend Magdalena Law Group as they were the best family law representation I had - totaling 5 other firms!

Joe Beekman

They are amazing. Aug 30, 2023

Wow... I am impressed. What a wonderful team to deal with. They are amazing. They helped me so fast and got me in and out of court with my ex in two court dates. I have been going to court for over 6 years with my ex. I was referred to Magdalen Law Group by a good friend in June 2023. I was using someone else for years. I wish I knew this team years ago. They would have saved me hundreds of thousands of dollars. Yesterday they got the case with my ex dismissed. Now it's time for me to live my life with a big smile on my face, thanks to this wonderful team of lawyers. I would recommend this team to anyone that is fighting for what is right. Once again, thank you so much for everything you have done for me.

kevin shanahan

She is worth every penny! Aug 7, 2023

I’ve had a terrible experience with my former lawyer which made it hard for me to trust a new lawyer. I learned about Moksha Smith through a friend of ours. I was skeptical at first since my former lawyer gave me a really bad experience. Moksha was very understanding, I felt her compassion and dedication to our case. She knows exactly how the court works. She gave me the best advice to win that mediation which gives us a good chance to hopefully win our case. She eventually earned my trust due to her consistency, hard work, time and effort. She is worth every penny! I appreciate her responsiveness and for always keeping us updated. I also appreciate her patience and how she answered all our questions and concerns before the hearing. She cleaned up our former lawyer’s mess. I highly recommend Moksha. If you want someone who is accurate and realistic, Moksha Smith is the best lawyer to hire! She deserves more than 5 stars!

Colleen Ricafort

Best Experience After 6 Years of Trying Jul 26, 2023

Best experience I could have wished for after 6 years of trying to obtain a divorce through the SCC system. After 6 years and countless visits to the SCC in person, I was gratefully put in touch with Magdalena Chattopadhya to finish the final process of my divorce and help with the missing items needed to finalize all filing and ultimately get our divorce. Magdalena was so helpful, knowledgeable, compassionate, respectful, motivated attorney we could have asked for. We first met with Magdalena in March 2023 and our divorce was finalized in May 2023. I have been wanting to write a review since May, but I have delayed because I could not (and still have not) found enough words to adequately express my gratitude towards Magdalena and the entire experience from start to finish in those two months. After 6 years of a lot of struggle with the SCC system, she came in and fixed everything and we were done in under 2 months. It was an amazing experience during a difficult time. Thank you so much, Magdalena! I cannot express a high enough recommendation for Magdalena. She is the best!

Shannon R.

Give Them 100 Stars! Jul 13, 2023

I wish I could give them 100 stars! I am writing this review to express my utmost satisfaction with the exceptional legal services provided by Magdalena's Family Law Firm. I cannot express enough how grateful I am to have such an exceptional group of legal professionals by my side during this challenging family matter. Magdalena's team is undoubtedly a consummate expert in their field and deserves every accolade for their outstanding services. From the initial consultation and through the different difficult hearings of my case, Magdalena's team consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for me and my family. Their profound knowledge of family law, coupled with their astute strategic thinking, proved to be instrumental in successfully navigating complex legal proceedings. Throughout my legal process, they have exhibited a remarkable level of professionalism, always making themselves available to address any concerns or questions I constantly have. Their exceptional communication skills are awesome. I am always well-informed about the progress of my case, leaving me with a sense of confidence and reassurance. What truly sets Magdalena's team apart is their empathetic and compassionate approach. PLEASE, do yourself a favor and hire them. Family matters can be emotionally charged, and they have displayed an extraordinary ability to balance the legal aspects while being sensitive to the human dynamics involved. Their genuine care and understanding fostered a trusting relationship, providing immense comfort during a challenging time. Believe me when I say that you will have THE BEST team on your side to get a fair outcome in your favor. Moksha Smith and Rutika were assigned to my case. They have been a blessing, and I cannot thank them enough for what we have accomplished so far. Furthermore, their attention to detail and meticulous preparation were on the dot. They left no stone unturned, meticulously helped me gather evidence, conduct thorough research, and devise effective strategies. Their courtroom presence was impressive, showcasing their persuasive advocacy skills and deep expertise in family law!! I was so proud of having Moksha represent me during a crucial hearing to set child/spousal support. I must also commend the entire team at Magdalena's for their professionalism and dedication. From the friendly receptionists to the knowledgeable paralegals, everyone I encountered was supportive and responsive, ensuring a seamless experience. In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Magdalena's Family Law Firm to anyone seeking a family lawyer. Their unparalleled expertise, combined with their compassionate approach, is truly making a significant difference in my case. With them by your side, you can rest assured that you have an exceptional legal partner who will fight diligently for your best interests. They are the epitome of excellence in the legal profession, and I am forever grateful for their invaluable support. Thank you, Team, for your exceptional service and unwavering dedication!! Moksha and Rutika (and Jasmine for keeping me on target), you ladies are the best!! YOU ROCK!! I appreciate your support in the upcoming hearings!! We got this :)

Will Cerrato

Exceptional Family Law Firm Jun 1, 2023

Moksha and the Magdalena law team was exceptional. They were very communicative about what they wanted and needed for my case. Anne, Jasmine, and Moksha were entirely helpful and made me feel at ease. Not once did I have to worry if they missed something. They never made any guarantees yet throughout my process, I felt at ease nonetheless. I'd highly, highly recommend this law firm specifically in Family Law if you need the help. It was money well spent.

Nick B

The Best Team at Magdalena Law Group May 15, 2023

Attorney Moksha Smith and her team are the best. Mrs. Smith always replies, texts me back, and emails me promptly when I have a question or concern. It’s very draining emotionally and just to know someone cares, listens, and has your back, really has made the difference. She is very compassionate, knowledgeable, and works extremely hard to make the experience less stressful. Thank you everyone at Magdalena Law Group!

Perla Ruelas

Reuniting me with my best friend Dec 16, 2022

I would like to express my most sincere gratitude to Moksha Smith and the entire Magdalena Law Team: Life brought me major obstacles, obstacles that ripped me apart on the inside. Obstacles that made me feel hopeless and alone. Fortunately, I came across Moksha Smith and I will always be thankful for the way she advocated for me and gave me a voice. I will always be thankful for the hard work she put into helping me find joy and meaning in life once again. Moksha Smith is a very compassionate individual, she’s walked my storm with me and passionately advocated for me. Ms. Smith has gone above and beyond to deliver her best work possible because she truly carries her client’s best interest at heart. She’s an over-achiever, challenges the system, and doesn’t take no for an answer. Ms. Smith is organized and champions criminal and family law. Due to her expertise in those fields, she has delivered outstanding outcomes in both criminal and family court. I felt an immediate connection with Ms. Smith because for once, somebody understood my story and was willing to advocate for me. Thank you: Moksha Smith, for guiding me and walking with me through one of the darkest times in my life. Most importantly, I will always be thankful for the hard work you put into reuniting me with my best friend, my son. Thank you: Jasmine Ly & Claire Swann, for being a great support and making everything run so smoothly. I understand it takes a lot of work to make dreams possible, so thank you! Thank you: Magdalena Law Group for the countless hours, resources, knowledge, efforts, & passion in your work. Thank You!

Bryant Avina

Trust in this firm hands down Aug 1, 2022

This review is long overdue. I can't thank Atty. Moksha Smith and the wonderful, compassionate, caring team at Magdalena Law Group enough. It's never easy going through something so life-changing and traumatic, but Atty. Smith and her team made it easier along the journey and the ultimate outcome. They take the time to listen, make themselves available, do all the legwork and upkeep of files, and they work with you on a plan that is achievable and favorable. The plan and process they set forth and the support they provided along the way helped me understand the legal process, which for many, like myself, is so confusing. You can definitely put your trust in this firm and their entire team hands down.

Bea Galan

Excellent Job Representing Me Jul 6, 2022

Magdalena and her team did an excellent job representing me. While she is extremely knowledgeable about the law - her superpower is her EQ skills. She is able to read people and situations extremely well and navigate accordingly. Her team is extremely responsive and very hardworking.

jena ghielmetti

Impeccable Understanding of the Law Jun 27, 2022

I’d like to express how vastly sensitive my case was. I had endured several contempt actions from my ex, general neglect of my children, and relentless harassment. Our previous attorney had to let go of my case, adding to my woes. I quickly had to get legal counsel, and I reached out to Magdalena Law Group to take up my case. She approached my case with the highest level of professionalism, thoroughness, and was honest enough to point out the hard facts, and where I was lacking in terms of my efforts. She knows her craft and walks the extra mile for you. Even with her busy schedule, she is always available and does her best when it's most needed. She helped me and my children seek appropriate counseling and therapy to deal with the situation. She was prompt enough to highlight the harassment from my ex, mental illness, and its impact on my children. She helped prove the fact that I was a victim of abuse for all those years. She has an impeccable understanding of the law and presented our case with case studies and judgments on similar cases in the past. This helped us win in what seemed like an impossible case to win. Thank you, Magdalena and team, for all the support and diligence!

S Kumar

Experienced and Communicative Attorney Jun 1, 2022

I had consulted with a couple of other well-reviewed SJ lawyers, but none of them could make informed recommendations at our 1-hour long, paid consults. After our first talk, I knew I would be in the hands of an experienced and communicative attorney. Moksha, Jasmine, and the team got me and my little family out of a rough spot legally. We didn't have a straightforward case, and we were prepared for a long fight, but Moksha found a relatively quick solution. If I ever need a family/marriage lawyer in future, I will come back to this team.

Alicia Hernandez

Incredibly Impressed with Moksha Smith Apr 18, 2022

My divorce attorney was Moksha Smith, and I am so incredibly impressed with this woman and the whole firm. My case was handled with care and professionalism, and the women here were very helpful. Not only did they do an excellent job handling and explaining my case, but they were always available to provide objective support in such an emotionally intense time. Moksha is definitely an expert in her field and I’m grateful she could help me through this phase of life.

Margaret Hammond

A Voice of Comfort and Reason Feb 4, 2022

Legal issues can be daunting. Often we are in need of representation when one is at their low, especially regarding matters that carry so much emotion. This was my state of mind while facing child custody proceedings and financial support struggles. When under the influence of such high stress and emotion, you need a clear-thinking representative that is capable of systematically engineering a plan of action. An attorney who can draw on years of experience and is able to lay out a roadmap. Only then can one begin to see a path toward liberation. What I have found is that it's best to get out in front, take it on and face the challenges with grit. If you procrastinate, you give others the ability to create the narrative and gain advantage. I found Magdalena to be a most wonderful advocate. She was a voice of comfort and reason within a very dynamic and emotional set of circumstances. I emerged from my case in a wonderful position, one that I thought was not possible. In that regard, my attorney outperformed my most optimistic expectations. When choosing an attorney, choose a pure professional. Magdalena and her team are certainly that!

Lance morrison

I rate them a 10/10 Feb 4, 2022

Thank you Magdalena Law Group, you guys are the best. I appreciate everything you guys have done for me. This law firm is by far the best, thank you. I would recommend this law firm; they get things done in a timely manner. They really care for their clients, and their work ethics show. I rate them a 10/10.

Michael Tran

Magdalena resurrected my life Jan 31, 2022

Where do I start? I was going through a bad divorce and had lost all hope of having any sort of custody of my only son. Magdalena Chattopadhya was my third lawyer and I do not know why I met her. I just had a feeling that I should meet her as a last resort. And boy, did she exceed my expectations. In the first meeting itself, she assured me that she’d do the best she can for me. Although she didn’t promise anything, she kinda said what might be the outcome of the case if I had her on board. She’s an absolute gem of a lawyer and has so much knowledge about family law cases and commands respect in the San Jose family court circle. She has a very pleasing personality, and even though her fees are kinda on the higher side, she never charges a penny extra and is very cognizant of her client’s time and money. If anyone needs an amazing lawyer in the Bay Area for family law, keep calm and retain Magdalena Chattopadhya. She will get the job done and some more. I can’t thank her enough. She has absolutely resurrected my life and I salute her. I can vouch for her any day of the week.

Vishal Jha