Heather Cullen
Certified Family Law Specialist
Premium Member
Experience:
28 years
Language(s):
English
Heather M. Cullen, CFLS | Riverside Divorce & Family Law Attorney
Premium Member
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In Good Standing
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Accepts Credit Cards
Accepts Referrals
Main Office
4094 Chestnut Street
Riverside, CA 92501
Office Hours
Monday - Friday9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Other Locations
28465 Old Town Front Street
Suite 321
Temecula, CA 92590
Cullen Family Law Group
About Heather
Heather M. Cullen, CFLS – Certified Family Law Specialist and Managing Attorney at Cullen Family Law Group
Heather M. Cullen, CFLS, is the founding and managing attorney of the Cullen Family Law Group and a distinguished Certified Family Law Specialist, certified by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization. This elite certification—held by fewer than 5% of family law attorneys in California—recognizes her advanced legal expertise, extensive courtroom experience, and dedication to excellence in family law.
Since founding the firm in 1998, Attorney Cullen has devoted her career exclusively to family law. For more than 25 years, she has represented clients in complex divorce, custody, spousal support, and domestic violence matters throughout Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. Her practice also includes high-asset property division, business valuation, and post-judgment modification cases.
Attorney Cullen earned her Juris Doctor from the University of California, Davis School of Law (King Hall), and graduated cum laude from the University of California, Riverside, with dual Bachelor’s Degrees in Philosophy and Law & Society. She is licensed to practice in all California state courts and the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California.
Heather’s legal practice is built on compassion, strategy, and results. Known for her ability to guide clients through emotionally charged disputes with professionalism and clarity, she provides honest counsel and effective advocacy. She leads a team of experienced family law attorneys who share her commitment to personalized service and ethical representation.
Under her leadership, the Cullen Family Law Group has earned repeated recognition for excellence, including features in Super Lawyers®, Inland Empire Magazine, Lawyers of Distinction, Martindale-Hubbell®, and Expertise.com’s “Best Divorce Lawyers” list. She has been honored multiple times as one of the Top Family Law Attorneys in California and recognized for both client satisfaction and peer-review excellence.
Attorney Cullen remains an active member of the California State Bar, the Riverside County Bar Association, and the San Bernardino County Bar Association. Her focus on delivering effective, results-driven legal solutions has helped countless families navigate the most difficult moments of their lives with confidence and dignity.
If you are considering divorce or facing a family law issue, contact Heather M. Cullen and the Cullen Family Law Group for trusted guidance and skilled legal representation.
Heather M. Cullen, CFLS, is the founding and managing attorney of the Cullen Family Law Group and a distinguished Certified Family Law Specialist, certified by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization. This elite certification—held by fewer than 5% of family law attorneys in California—recognizes her advanced legal expertise, extensive courtroom experience, and dedication to excellence in family law.
Since founding the firm in 1998, Attorney Cullen has devoted her career exclusively to family law. For more than 25 years, she has represented clients in complex divorce, custody, spousal support, and domestic violence matters throughout Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. Her practice also includes high-asset property division, business valuation, and post-judgment modification cases.
Attorney Cullen earned her Juris Doctor from the University of California, Davis School of Law (King Hall), and graduated cum laude from the University of California, Riverside, with dual Bachelor’s Degrees in Philosophy and Law & Society. She is licensed to practice in all California state courts and the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California.
Heather’s legal practice is built on compassion, strategy, and results. Known for her ability to guide clients through emotionally charged disputes with professionalism and clarity, she provides honest counsel and effective advocacy. She leads a team of experienced family law attorneys who share her commitment to personalized service and ethical representation.
Under her leadership, the Cullen Family Law Group has earned repeated recognition for excellence, including features in Super Lawyers®, Inland Empire Magazine, Lawyers of Distinction, Martindale-Hubbell®, and Expertise.com’s “Best Divorce Lawyers” list. She has been honored multiple times as one of the Top Family Law Attorneys in California and recognized for both client satisfaction and peer-review excellence.
Attorney Cullen remains an active member of the California State Bar, the Riverside County Bar Association, and the San Bernardino County Bar Association. Her focus on delivering effective, results-driven legal solutions has helped countless families navigate the most difficult moments of their lives with confidence and dignity.
If you are considering divorce or facing a family law issue, contact Heather M. Cullen and the Cullen Family Law Group for trusted guidance and skilled legal representation.
Fees determined on a case by case basis.
Experience
Founder and Managing Attorney
Cullen Family Law Group
1998-Present
Riverside, CA
Admission
California State Bar
1998
Education
University of California, Davis School of Law
J.D.
1997
Recognitions & Achievements
Associations
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State Bar of California
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United States District Court for the Central District of California
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San Bernardino County Bar Association
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Riverside County Bar Association
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American Bar Association
Honors / Awards
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2025
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Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
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Leading Women Attorneys of the Inland Empire, Inland Empire Magazine
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Women Who Lead, Inland Empire Magazine
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Top Lawyers in the Inland Empire, Inland Empire Magazine
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Who’s Who in Law & Leadership, Inland Empire Magazine
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2024
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Leading Lawyers, Inland Empire Magazine
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Industry Leaders, Inland Empire Magazine
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Who’s Who in the Inland Empire, Inland Empire Magazine
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Best of the Inland Empire, Inland Empire Magazine
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Annual Women’s Issue Honoree, Inland Empire Magazine
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2023
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Top Rated Lawyers in California, Lawyers of Distinction
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Best of the Best – Lawyer Awards, Inland Empire Magazine
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2022
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Leading Divorce & Family Law Attorney of the Year, AI Global
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Family Law Top 10 Firm, Attorney & Practice
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Leading Lawyer, Inland Empire Magazine
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Super Lawyer (Firm Attorney), Super Lawyers
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Best of the Best, Inland Empire Magazine
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2021
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Client Champion – Platinum Distinction, Martindale-Hubbell®
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Lawyer of Distinction, Lawyers of Distinction
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Best Divorce Lawyers in Temecula, Expertise
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Annual Best of the IE – Lawyers Awards, Inland Empire Magazine
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2020
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Industry Leader, Inland Empire Magazine
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Top Rated Lawyer, Lawyers of Distinction
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2019
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2018
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Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award, Marquis Who’s Who in American Law
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Top 10 Family Law Attorney for California, American Jurist Institute
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10 Best – California, American Institute of Family Law Attorneys
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2017
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Divorce Lawyer of the Year – Riverside County, North America News
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Esteemed Lawyer of America, Esteemed Lawyers of America
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Top 10 Family Law Attorney in California, American Jurist Institute
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Top 100 Matrimonial and Family Law Lawyers, The National Advocates
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2016
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Inland Empire Top Lawyer, Inland Empire Magazine
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Outstanding Women Leaders, Inland Empire Magazine
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Top 10 Best Family Law Attorney in California, American Institute of Legal Counsel
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2015
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Client Distinction Award, Martindale-Hubbell
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2014
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Outstanding Women in Law, Inland Empire Magazine
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Woman of Distinction, Inland Empire Magazine
Notable Work
Cases
Doe v. Doe Practice Area: Family Outcome: Sole legal and physical custody awarded to client. Description: Establishment of parental relationship and child custody rights in a contested matter involving complex parenting issues. Marriage of A & B Practice Area: Divorce & Separation Outcome: Equitable division of assets, structured support orders, and attorney fees awarded. Description: Dissolution of marriage involving high-value property, business valuation, and parenting plan resolution. In re Custody of Minor Child Practice Area: Child Custody & Visitation Outcome: Client obtained primary custody with detailed visitation schedule for the other parent. Description: Representation in a modification proceeding to secure stable custody and protect the child’s best interests. Marriage of C & D Practice Area: Property Division & Support Outcome: Client received fair allocation of community property and favorable spousal support terms. Description: Divorce involving complex financial disclosures, valuation of multiple real estate holdings, and contested support issues. Doe v. Roe Practice Area: Domestic Violence Restraining Order Outcome: Permanent restraining order granted and full custody awarded to client. Description: Representation in domestic violence proceedings involving protective orders, custody determinations, and safety planning for minor children. Disclaimer: Lawyer case results depend upon a variety of factors unique to each case. Case results do not guarantee or predict a similar result in any future case undertaken by the lawyer.
Publications
California Child Custody Talks Should Also Involve an Emergency Plan
Highlights the importance of creating emergency custody plans to protect children and reduce conflict in unexpected situations.
Financial Planning Is Crucial Following Divorce in California
Discusses the financial steps individuals should take after divorce, including budgeting, asset protection, and long-term planning.
Enjoying the Holidays After Divorce in California
Offers guidance for parents navigating the holiday season post-divorce, with tips for maintaining stability and positive traditions.
Setting a Positive Tone for Divorce in California
Encourages couples to approach divorce with cooperation and respect to minimize emotional strain and improve case outcomes.
Minimizing Costs in California Divorce Proceedings
Provides strategies to help clients reduce unnecessary legal expenses through preparation and effective communication.
California Court Decision on Pensions Holds Major Impact for Divorcing Couples
Analyzes how key California court rulings influence pension division and retirement account distribution in divorce cases.
Divorce Can Derail a California Family Business
Examines how business owners can safeguard their companies and assets during divorce with proper valuation and legal planning.
California Grandparents Often Need More Than Visitation Rights
Explores legal options for grandparents seeking custody or greater involvement in their grandchildren’s lives.
Supreme Court Hears Child Custody Case for Native American Child
Summarizes a pivotal Supreme Court case concerning the Indian Child Welfare Act and its impact on custody disputes.
Pre- and Postnuptial Agreements Can Simplify Property Division Matters
Explains how pre- and postnuptial agreements help couples clarify financial expectations and avoid litigation in divorce.
Questions & Answers
Please describe a case in the last year or two where you made a big difference.
Represented a client in a high-asset divorce involving multiple properties and a family-owned business. The case required extensive financial analysis and strategic negotiation to ensure a fair division of assets. The client ultimately retained a substantial portion of the business and community property, along with favorable custody orders that provided stability for the children. The judgment included sole legal and physical custody, as well as awards for child support, spousal support, and attorney’s fees.
How did you build a successful practice?
Through consistent dedication to each client’s unique needs, a commitment to professionalism, and the integration of modern technology to streamline communication and case management. By combining compassionate advocacy with efficiency and strategic insight, I built a practice known for both personal attention and strong legal results.
What should clients look for in a lawyer?
Clients should seek an attorney who values honesty, integrity, and clear communication. A strong family law attorney must understand both state and local court procedures while maintaining empathy for the challenges clients face. Experience, preparation, and trustworthiness are essential to achieving favorable outcomes in complex family matters.
How important is local knowledge to the success of your cases?
Local knowledge is essential in family law. Each courthouse operates with unique procedures, judicial expectations, and filing protocols. An attorney who regularly appears before local judges and understands regional court practices can anticipate challenges, streamline hearings, and present cases more effectively. My years of experience in Riverside and San Bernardino courts allow me to navigate these systems efficiently and advocate strategically for my clients.
What information can you provide in a free phone consultation?
Our office does not provide free consultations. We offer an initial consultation for a minimal fee of $50, which is applied toward the client’s retainer should they choose to retain our services. During this consultation, clients receive an informed assessment of their case, an explanation of legal options, and a clear understanding of potential next steps. The goal is to provide meaningful guidance from the very first meeting.
What information do you need in a free phone consultation?
Our office does not provide free consultations. We offer an initial consultation for a minimal fee of $50, which is credited toward the retainer if the client decides to move forward with representation. Prior to the consultation, we ask clients to provide basic background information, including the nature of the legal issue, any existing court orders, and upcoming deadlines. Having this information and any relevant documents ready allows us to review the matter efficiently and focus the discussion on practical, personalized solutions.
What differentiates you from other lawyers in your community?
I practice exclusively in family law and have done so for over 25 years. As a Certified Family Law Specialist recognized by the State Bar of California, I bring advanced knowledge and experience to each case. My approach combines legal precision with genuine compassion, ensuring that every client receives both strong advocacy and individualized support throughout their case.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
Helping clients regain stability during one of the most difficult times in their lives. Family law often involves sensitive and emotional issues, and it is deeply rewarding to guide clients toward resolutions that protect their rights, their children, and their future. Seeing clients move forward with confidence and peace of mind is the most fulfilling part of my work.
What are your other interests in addition to law?
I value time with my family and enjoy activities that allow me to recharge and stay grounded. Outside the courtroom, I appreciate opportunities to mentor young professionals, support local organizations, and promote work-life balance within the legal community.
Are you involved in your community?
Yes. I am actively involved in supporting local family-focused organizations and professional associations throughout Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. I participate in community outreach, legal education efforts, and women’s leadership initiatives that strengthen families and empower individuals navigating life transitions.
Additional Info
Founded 1998
Cullen Family Law Group Highlights
Divorce & Family Law
Firm Size:
3 Attorneys
Firm Locations:
1
Languages:
English, Spanish
Heather Cullen has been a Premium Member since February 11, 2016.
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