About Bruce Edward

Bruce Edward Avery is a seasoned family law attorney based in Rockville, Maryland. He has been practicing law for over four decades, focusing primarily on family law matters such as divorce, child custody, and collaborative law. His experience has made him a respected figure in the legal community. Avery earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Louisville in 1976, following a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Political Science from Hobart College in 1971. His legal career began in Kentucky, where he was admitted to the bar in 1976. In 1984, he joined the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps, serving for 15 years and gaining experience in military law.

After retiring from the Army in 1993, Avery transitioned to civilian practice, focusing on family law in Montgomery County, Maryland. In 1992, Avery was admitted to the Maryland Court of Appeals. This lets the attorney practice law in Maryland. He also holds memberships in the District of Columbia Court of Appeals (admitted in 1993) and the Supreme Court of the Republic of Korea (admitted in 1989). His diverse admissions reflect his broad legal expertise and international experience. In 2004, Avery co-founded Avery & Upton, a law firm dedicated to family law. The firm emphasizes collaborative practice, aiming to resolve disputes amicably without resorting to litigation.

Avery is a certified mediator in both general civil matters and family law, focusing on property and child-related issues. He serves as a facilitator for the Family Law Division of the Montgomery County Circuit Court. Avery is a founding member and past president of the Collaborative Dispute Resolution Professionals, Inc. (CDRP) and a member of the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals. He is also a founding member of the Collaborative Practice Training Institute, where he trains professionals in collaborative practice. His commitment to alternative dispute resolution methods shows his dedication to helping clients find mutually agreeable solutions. Throughout his career, Avery has been recognized for his contributions to the legal field.

He has been listed in Maryland Super Lawyers from 2008 to 2020 and in Washington, D.C., Super Lawyers during the same period. Additionally, he has been included in Best Lawyers in America from 2014 to 2020. These accolades reflect his expertise and reputation among peers and clients alike — Avery's commitment to professional development is evident in his continuous education. He regularly attends courses, workshops, and seminars to enhance his skills and stay updated on legal developments. His dedication to learning ensures that he provides the highest level of service to his clients. In summary, Bruce Edward Avery's experience, diverse legal admissions, and commitment to alternative dispute resolution make him a attorney in the field of family law. His work continues to positively impact the lives of many individuals and families in Maryland and beyond.

Education

University of Louisville

J.D.

1972

Hobart and William Smith Colleges

B.A. | Sociology & Political Science

1967

Experience

Partner

Avery & Upton
2004

Sole Owner

Law Office of Bruce E. Avery
1992

Major

US Army JAG Corps
1971

Accepted Jurisdictions

Maryland
Republic of Korea
U.S. Supreme Court
Kentucky
District of Columbia

Court Admissions

Supreme Court of Kentucky State Supreme Court · Admitted 1976
U.S. Supreme Court U.S. Supreme Court · Admitted 1984
Supreme Court of the Republic of Korea Admitted 1989
Maryland Court of Appeals State Supreme Court · Admitted 1992
District of Columbia Court of Appeals State Appeals Court · Admitted 1993

Types of Cases Handled

divorce child custody collaborative law

Legal Services Scope

Mediation Collaborative practice Litigation

Professional Associations

Collaborative Practice Training Institute

Founding has membership 2008 - Current

Maryland Collaborative Practice Council

Founding has membership 2006 - Current

Collaborative Dispute Resolution Professionals, Inc

Founding has membership 2005 - Current

Office Locations

Main Office

 51 Monroe Street Suite 701 Rockville MD 20850-2421