About Penny
Penny Clemmons practices family law in Santa Barbara, California. A member of the California State Bar since 1990, she has dedicated her career to various aspects of family law, including divorce, child custody, and support issues. Her firm offers a comprehensive approach, also addressing health care law and juvenile law. This diverse practice allows her to meet the multifaceted needs of her clients, ensuring that they receive well-rounded legal support. Penny earned her Juris Doctor (J.D.) from Santa Barbara & Ventura Colleges of Law in 1990. Her academic credentials extend beyond her law degree; she holds a Ph.D.
in Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, which she obtained in 1976. This unique combination of legal and psychological education enhances her understanding of the emotional complexities involved in family law cases. In 2014, she further broadened her expertise by earning a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Art Business from the Claremont Consortium of Colleges, complementing her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) from the University of Illinois - Chicago, earned in 1970. Since 2009, Penny has focused much of her work on mediation and dispute resolution. In her role as a dispute facilitator and settlement master, she helps parties reach amicable agreements outside of court. This emphasis on mediation supports her resolving conflicts in a constructive manner, minimizing the emotional toll on families.
Her experience in this area is invaluable, as it allows her to guide clients through the often challenging process of family law disputes. In addition to her practice, Penny has served as an adjunct professor since 1996 — This role shows her dedication to education and mentorship in the legal field. She teaches aspiring lawyers about family law and related subjects, sharing her extensive knowledge and experience. Before becoming a partner in her firm in 2001, she actively participated in community training programs, including the Training Academy for Field Organizers in 2012. Her certifications as a specialist in family law and as a licensed psychologist enable her to approach cases with a unique perspective, addressing both legal and emotional challenges faced by her clients. Penny Clemmons is also certified as a community college instructor, which complements her teaching role.
Her multifaceted expertise equips her to handle complex cases that require both legal acumen and psychological insight. Committed to advocating for her clients, she ensures their voices are heard in family law matters. Her practice is characterized by a understanding of the emotional dynamics at play in these cases. Penny remains dedicated to serving her community in Santa Barbara, providing compassionate and knowledgeable representation to those navigating family law issues.
