Give us a synopsis of your legal services.

I practice family law all over Colorado, though my office is in Boulder. I primarily do litigation and represent people in divorces, custody disputes, and emergency issues such as protection orders. I represent a diversity of people from all different income brackets and backgrounds. I also offer mediation services and I act as a parenting coordinator/decision-maker when children are involved.

My experience as a judicial officer brings a unique perspective to each case.

What advice would you give someone else entering your career field?

I would tell them that they should hold on to their values and not change them to suit others--not clients, judges, or other attorneys. Litigation can be very stressful, and family law in particular can be emotionally taxing, so I would also advise them to take care of themselves and determine what type of life balance they want. This can be a financially rewarding career, but it's not worth it if you are working all the time and don't make time to enjoy life.

What inspired you to pursue family law?

I have always been a problem solver, and I like to help people find creative solutions. With my background in psychology and law, family law was a natural fit for me. I especially love to help families resolve issues related to children. I have two young children of my own, so I can relate to many of the problems that families face in today's world.

What are some growing pains that you had to overcome when scaling your business?

I learned that when you are starting a business, there will be a lot of unplanned startup costs. I’ve also gained a new appreciation for administrative staff, as now I am having to do most of those things on my own as I don't have any employees and just one contract paralegal. I am learning that there is a great risk in owning your own business but also the potential for great reward.

What is your vision for the future of your career?

I have many career ambitions! I hope to start focusing on some alternative dispute resolution processes in addition to doing litigation--such as mediation, and parenting time/decision-maker work. I also love writing and teaching and plan on writing more educational articles and doing some teaching.

What's next? Do you have any exciting ambitions for the future?

I would like to start writing more articles and doing more teaching and mentoring. I also hope to start focusing on some of the other things that I enjoy in life, such as playing my flute. Having my own business gives me more flexibility, so I am looking forward to finding a better work/life balance.

Sangeetha Mallavarapu is principal attorney at SM Family Law, a Boulder, CO premier law firm, serving the greater Denver area and specializing in Colorado family law matters.