Ms. Stewart attended the University of California at Santa Barbara and graduated from Santa Barbara College of Law. Licensed to practice law for over 25 years, she concentrates on the full range of family law matters, including pre- and postnuptial agreements, divorce, separation, support, paternity, custody, visitation and property division.   She also handles the drafting of wills and trusts and probate matters, including trust litigation.  

Ms. Stewart’s unusual and varied background informs her practice.  Born a military “brat” in Paris, France, Ms. Stewart developed flexibility and adaptability from relocating.  As former of First Lady of Alaska, Ms. Stewart learned to exercise diplomacy in dealing with diverse interests and assisted in challenging negotiations.  Her experiences as office manager and bookkeeper for a family business have given her an intimate understanding of business.  Raising a child as a single parent, Ms. Stewart is sympathetic to the challenges of divorce and parenting, as well as being personally familiar with the emotional landscape of and challenges in family law proceedings.  She is proud of her ability to handle cases with compassion, and is empathetic to the difficult times her clients are facing.  

Striving to resolve family law matters without resort to court action is Ms. Stewart’s main goal. But she has no compunction about proceeding to court when necessary.  She is aware that dissolution can be an extremely distressing and stressful event in a client’s life.  And, she brings her concern for the children’s well being to the forefront when dealing with custody and visitation issues.

Michael is an avid cyclist, reader and a passionate traveler.  She is “rabid” about exercise leading Marty to refer to her as the “fitness director.”