Crystal Gaines

With over seven years of experience as a practicing attorney, I bring a client-centered and compassionate approach to family law, grounded in a lifelong commitment to advocacy and service. My legal practice focuses on guiding individuals and families through some of life’s most personal and complex transitions, including, but not limited to, divorce, child custody, child support, and prenuptial and postnuptial agreements. Whether I’m in a courtroom or at a negotiation table, I aim to deliver clarity, direction, and unwavering advocacy for my clients.

Before entering the legal profession, I worked with at-risk youth as a re-entry counselor and served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for children in foster care. Those early experiences shaped the heart of my practice, I’ve always been drawn to work that uplifts families and protects the most vulnerable.

I believe that family law is about more than legal outcomes, it’s about helping people navigate real-life change with dignity, understanding, and support.

I lead with compassion but never compromise on strategy. I make it a priority to break down complex legal concepts so my clients can make informed decisions with confidence. While I am not confrontational by nature, I am aggressive when it comes to protecting my clients’ best interests. I believe in being honest and transparent, even when the truth is difficult, because my clients deserve clear expectations and trustworthy counsel at every step of the process.

Throughout my career, I have managed high-volume caseloads and litigated high-stakes matters with success. I am no stranger to the courtroom, and I embrace litigation when necessary, always balancing zealous advocacy with professionalism and integrity.

In recognition of my dedication to the legal profession and my broader community, I have been honored with several awards and distinctions. I received the President’s Award from the J. Franklin Bourne Bar Association, Inc., recognizing outstanding service to the Bar. In 2021, I was named a Top 40 Under 40 Attorney by the National Black Lawyers organization. In addition to my legal work, I remain deeply committed to community service across Maryland and Virginia, and I’ve received numerous certificates of appreciation for my volunteer efforts.

My professional background includes a role as a Special Assistant United States Attorney with the U.S. Department of Justice, where I gained invaluable experience handling matters on behalf of the United States Government. I am licensed to practice in Maryland and Washington, D.C., and I am also barred before the Supreme Court of the United States and the United States District Court for the District of Maryland.

At the core of my practice is the belief that everyone deserves strong, thoughtful, and honest representation. Whether you are facing a divorce, negotiating custody, or preparing for marriage with a prenuptial agreement, my goal is to advocate for you with skill, care, and clarity.