Sandra Fava isn’t just a veteran attorney. She’s a woman thriving in the “boys’ club” of high-stakes divorce litigation. With 20+ years of experience and a reputation for clarity, toughness, and compassion, she has built her own boutique firm, Fava Law Group, into the go-to practice for New Jersey’s most complex and emotionally charged divorce cases.
What makes Sandra stand out isn’t only her legal acumen, but her vision for the future of family courts: trauma-informed judging, recognition of coercive control, and real pathways for raising emotionally healthy kids post-divorce. She’s direct, relatable, and unafraid to challenge the status quo — exactly the kind of voice that brings depth to a conversation about how our courts (and families) evolve.
Can you point to one event that triggered your interest in your career?
An immediate family member was a victim of domestic violence. I was in middle school at the time, and as I saw how it impacted that individual, a young child, and everyone else involved, my interest in family law was sparked.
What about this career choice did you find most appealing?
I’ve always felt strongly about justice—the principles of right and wrong. Engaging in a system or process that determines that was right up my alley.
What steps did you take to begin your education or training?
If you count television, obsessively watching shows like The People’s Court and Ally McBeal, I studied political science in undergrad and found mentors in the legal profession who could help guide me.
Sandra Fava
Along the way, were people encouraging or discouraging?
Family and friends were always my biggest cheerleaders, particularly my parents who immigrated to the U.S. and did not have opportunities for higher education.
Did you ever doubt your decision and attempt a career change?
I think we all have moments of doubt during our careers, and I have thought about using my J.D. to do other things, but I’ve never done anything more. At the end of the day, I truly love what I do and who I do it with.
When did your career reach a tipping point?
Probably a few times. When I had my first child, I felt very torn about my new role as a mother and being a young partner in a large law firm, and the responsibilities and expectations both held. During COVID, I battled breast cancer, and that made me question a lot of things in my life.
Can you describe a challenge you had to overcome?
Nearly every day, I have to overcome and face the challenges of being a female in a still male-dominated profession, with the preconceived notions that come along with that. Not unlike any professional woman.
What single skill has proven to be most useful?
The ability to listen. Lawyers often talk too much. They are trained to talk and argue persuasively—an important skill. But just as important is listening.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
Starting my own law firm in September 2024. It has been, thus far, my greatest professional achievement and has given me so much personal gratitude.
Any advice for others entering your profession?
Find mentors—and not necessarily just one. Different mentors not only provide different perspectives, but they also have varied experience and knowledge. Someone who is a skilled attorney may not have experience in marketing, or vice versa.
For more information about Sandra Fava, go to the website for the Fava Law Group.
