Jennifer Shoemaker

Jennifer Shoemaker

Partner, Underberg & Kessler LLP

Years in current role: 20

What has been your biggest success over the past year?

This past year I assisted a client with securing the return of his son whose mother refused to return him or allow any contact with the child whatsoever. We filed an order to show cause, ultimately securing the return of the child.

What are your expectations for the next 6-12 months?

I plan to continue helping clients navigate their way through tricky and emotional family law and divorce issues with professionalism and compassion and continue to make a difference every day.

What advice would you give someone starting out in family law right now?

My advice to someone starting out in family law is to be empathetic and put yourself in the shoes of your clients. This is perhaps the most important thing they’ve ever done in their lives and you are their voice. Show them compassion and be a fierce advocate.

If you could practice one area of law that you haven’t practiced in your career, what would it be and why?

I would be a criminal prosecutor. They are instrumental in providing justice to victims and families.

What do you enjoy most about the Rochester legal community?

The Rochester legal community is a very close-knit group, especially in the family law arena. We represent our client’s zealously yet respect each other and maintain professionalism. I am proud to be a member.