About Judy S. Howard, Esq.

I have practiced law for over 40 years, first as a water lawyer in Colorado, then a Proctor in Admiralty in Honolulu and, for the last 25 years or so as a Family Law attorney in Waimea, Hawaii. I have called Waimea home for more than 34 years. My practice focuses on the areas where I can be most effective — property division, marital agreements, and mediation — and I refer custody matters to colleagues better suited to handle them.
I am a strong believer in mediation. In my experience, couples who resolve their differences through mediation cause themselves significantly less damage — financially and emotionally — than those who litigate. I encourage this path whenever it is appropriate.
I am also a licensed Hawaii real estate broker (RB-23241) and a Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert (CDRE). This combination allows me to assist divorcing clients with the sale of real property in a way that most attorneys cannot. I keep these roles strictly separate — I do not take real property law cases — to avoid any conflict of interest with my brokerage work.

A Note for Those Moving to Hawaii
Hawaii has unique marital property laws that frequently surprise couples relocating from the mainland. If you are planning a move to Hawaii, I strongly encourage you to consult with a Hawaii family law attorney about a marital agreement before or shortly after your arrival. An ounce of prevention here is worth considerably more than a pound of cure.

How I Work
I do not accept every case that comes my way, and I am straightforward with prospective clients about whether I can help them. All new matters begin with a one-hour Zoom consultation scheduled after receipt of a $300 consultation fee. From there, we decide together whether to establish an attorney-client relationship.
I maintain an answering service and work primarily by email and Zoom. You can reach me at judyhowardesq@gmail.comjudyhowardesq@gmail.com.