Ellen Winick Stross

Ellen is a Certified Specialist in Family Law and a Fellow in the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.

Ellen’s practice encompasses all aspects of family law, including complex issues of property, support, and custody. She has successfully represented corporate executives, venture capitalists, and other high-net-worth individuals throughout the litigation process and in trial.

Northern California Super Lawyers named Ellen a Super Lawyer from 2005 to 2024, one of the top fifty women lawyers in Northern California from 2007-2008 and 2010-2024, and one of the top one hundred lawyers in Northern California from 2005-2024. Ellen received an AV Preeminent Rating and AV Peer Review Rating by Lexis Nexis Martindale-Hubbell. She was selected by her peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America from 2010-2022.

Education

• J.D., Northwestern University School of Law, 1992
• B.A. High Distinction, University of California at Berkeley, Phi Beta Kappa, 1988

Awards & Accolades

• The Legal Aid Society of San Mateo County awarded Ellen the Dorothy M. Wolfe Award for outstanding service in 2006.

Associations & Memberships 

• American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Northern California Chapter President 2017-2018; Board of Managers, 2010 to 2018; Annual Symposium Co-Chair 2013; Mentor, San Mateo County, 2011 to 2014
• Legal Aid Society of San Mateo County, Co-Chair, Justice for All Luncheon, 2007 to 2012
• Kids’ Turn, Co-Chair, Annual Fundraiser, 2009-2012; Board of Directors, Kids’ Turn San Francisco, 2009 to 2012
• NARAL Peninsula Power of Choice Luncheon, Co-Chair, 2019-2020
• NARAL Peninsula Leadership Council, Chairperson, 2021-2023