MEET YOUR TEAM
KRISTINE S. CUMMINGS
Attorney at Law + Mediator
Kristine is a State Bar Certified Family Law Specialist, who has been practicing exclusively in the field of family law since 1996. She graduated from the University of California at Davis School of Law in 1992 and became a Certified Family Law Specialist in 2004.
She is a member of the following professional organizations: Family Law Section of the State Bar of California; Sacramento County Bar Association, Family Law Section; Association of Certified Family Law Specialists; Christian Legal Society; and the Sacramento Collaborative Practice Group.
Kristine has extensive training and experience in resolving disputes using out of court processes, including but not limited to mediation and Collaborative Practice. She presently serves on the board of the Sacramento Collaborative Practice Group and trains other multi-disciplinary divorce professionals throughout the state of California in the Collaborative Practice model of resolving disputes out of court. She also accepts court-appointments for representing minors in complex custody cases where the court finds it is in the children's best interest to be represented by independent counsel.
Kristine has been married to the love of her life, Todd, for over 30 years. They share 5 wonderful children, all of whom live close by. This enables them to spend lots of time with their 4 grandkids. On weekends you will find Kristine competing with one of her tennis teams, relaxing with a great book, or hosting a family gathering.
VALERIE ZHARINOVA
Legal Assistant + Office Manager
Valerie Zharinova has been with the practice for over 10 years. She received the equivalent of a Bachelor's degree in 1993 from Saratov State University, and her paralegal certificate in 2001 from CA State University, Monterey. Valerie offers efficiency, compassion and attention to detail to every single case in the practice. Val makes it her goal to insure that every client feels their unique needs are being met in the best way possible throughout the duration of the matter.
Val enjoys spending time with her husband hiking, savoring good food and wine, and planning their next trip to explore new cities and countries.
JULIA THOMPSON
Receptionist + Billing Coordinator
People will encounter Julia's cheerful voice when scheduling new client consultations, and all appointments for current clients. She also coordinates the billing and accounts receivable.
When not in the office, Julia can be found most often in the kitchen - crafting delicious pastries to delight her family and friends.