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Mary Commander

Attorney Mediator
Norfolk, VA, United States

About

With over four decades of legal practice since 1981, Mary Commander has focused extensively on family law matters. She has been a certified mediator since 1994 and has served as a Substitute Judge for the General District and Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Courts for more than 20 years. Her background includes handling complex domestic relations cases through litigation, mediation, and collaborative processes.

Practice Areas

Child Custody & Parenting Family Law & Divorce

Professional Experience

Commander & Carlson
Substitute Judge
General District and Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Courts

Publications Leadership

  • Frequent lecturer on family law and mediation topics for various legal organizations
  • Past leadership roles in local and state bar associations

Positioning Takeaways

This practitioner offers a comprehensive suite of family law services, blending judicial insight with mediation expertise to resolve domestic conflicts outside of traditional litigation.

License & Certifications

  • Certified Mediator
  • Supreme Court of Virginia (since 1994)
  • Admitted to Virginia State Bar (1981)
  • Certified in Collaborative Law

Education

Juris Doctor
University of Richmond School of Law
1981
Bachelor of Arts
Old Dominion University
1978

Distinction

Holds the unique perspective of having served as a Substitute Judge for over two decades while maintaining a private mediation and collaborative law practice.

Reputation

Known for providing a balanced approach to dispute resolution, drawing on her extensive experience as both a judicial officer and a private practitioner to facilitate settlements in highly emotional family disputes.