Abeer Helen Zanayed

Attorney

At the heart of my practice are two beliefs: First, communication is the key to every successful relationship; and Second, the law can assist individuals in articulating their needs and reconsidering their relationships. I maintain a constant dialogue with my clients to understand their needs and to provide effective solutions. Through Collaborative Divorce, I seek an amicable and efficient process and an equitable outcome outside of the courtroom.

I have handled hundreds of family law cases, including pre-decree and post-decree divorce cases, child support enforcement, paternity and parenting time matters, and relocation cases.

I’m a first-generation American. I grew up in a community and culture where the men are the breadwinners and the women stay in the home.  At a young age, I decided there was no way I was putting up with that.

I wanted to take the road less traveled and challenge the patriarchy.  I left home and attended Saint Mary’s College in Notre Dame, Indiana.  College was a place of discovery and an opportunity to set the path for my future.  I discovered my own voice and learned to advocate for myself.  I then went to John Marshall Law School and learned how to help others advocate for themselves.  I am proud to say that I am the first female attorney in my family, having graduated in 2005.

At the start of my law career, I focused mostly on civil cases; it was during this time that I honed my skills in litigation and all aspects regarding the management of court proceedings, which included such facets as establishing litigation strategies and directing settlement negotiations. As a civil litigator, I dealt with all manner of cases such as breach of contract, personal injury, corporate shareholder disputes, and more.  However, I wanted to help people become independent and unlock their full potential.  That’s why I decided to shift my focus exclusively to family law a decade ago.