Valentina Shaknes

Valentina Shaknes: Experienced Matrimonial and Family Law Attorney in New York

Valentina Shaknes is a founding partner at KSTM, where she has practiced exclusively in matrimonial and family law for nearly two decades. Her extensive experience encompasses a wide variety of complex matrimonial matters including equitable distribution disputes, custody battles, child and spousal support, prenuptial and post-nuptial agreements, as well as international child custody and abduction proceedings under the Hague Convention.

Practice Areas

• Matrimonial and Family Law
• Custody Battles
• Equitable Distribution Disputes
• Child Support Cases
• Spoil Spousal Support Claims
• Prenuptial Agreements
• Post-Nuptial Agreements
• International Child Custody and Abduction Disputes (Hague Convention)

Awards and Recognitions

• Chambers High Net Worth: Top Lawyer for Family/Matrimonial Law in New York, 2022-2024
• Distinguished Leader Award from the New York Law Journal, 2020
• Notable Woman in Law from Crain’s New York Business, 2022
• Elite Boutique Trailblazer from The National Law Journal, 2020
• Divorce, Trusts & Estates Trailblazer from The National Law Journal, 2017
• New York Super Lawyer in Family Law, 2020-2023
• Outstanding Young Lawyer from The New York Times, 2014-2019
• New York Super Lawyer Rising Star in Family Law, 2014-2019

Credentials and Affiliations

• Universities: Brooklyn Law School, Rutgers
• Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Brooklyn Law School, Brooklyn, New York, 2008
• J.D., Rutgers University School of Law, Newark, NJ, 2012
• A.B. in Political Science and Economics, Brooklyn College, Brooklyn, NY, 2004
• Bar Admissions: New York State (2012), California (2013)
• Firms: Co-Chair of the Matrimonial Practice at McLaughlin & Stern LLP (2010-2012); Associate in the Matrimonial Department at Blank Rome LLP (2008-2010)
• Affiliations: Certified Divorce Mediator, Certified Parent Coordinator