About Carolyn
Carolyn Helwick built a practice from the ground up. She combined a background in history and public policy with professional legal training to anchor a career in family law and related matters. Her academic path began at the University of California, Los Angeles, where she completed a B.A. in History and Public Policy. She then earned a J.D. from the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco, where she concentrated on family law issues during her studies.
Her early legal career led to a partnership at McManis Faulkner in 2008. There she worked on contested family law matters, representing clients in custody, support and property disputes. That period exposed her to high-stakes courtroom work as well as negotiated resolutions. It also gave her experience handling complex financial and parenting issues that often arise in family law cases.
In 2016 she took the next step and co-founded Helwick Sevier LLP. The firm’s founding marked a shift from larger firm structures to a smaller, partnership-driven practice. As a founding partner she helped shape firm policies, case strategy and client intake processes. Her role involved both trial preparation and client counseling. Colleagues describe her approach as pragmatic; she balances litigation readiness with an eye toward realistic outcomes for each client.
Practically speaking, her day-to-day work has included contested custody hearings, spousal and child support negotiations, and division of assets in dissolutions. She has handled cases that require careful financial analysis, including valuation and tracing of separate property. She also represents clients in temporary restraining orders and emergency hearings, where swift action is often necessary.
Helwick’s courtroom experience is complemented by an attention to client communication. She prepares clients for hearings, explains procedural steps and breaks down legal options. Outside the courtroom she has been involved in mediation sessions and settlement conferences, aiming to resolve disputes when possible but prepared to litigate when necessary.
Licensed to practice in California, she has kept her practice rooted in state law and local court procedures. Her career path shows a steady progression from a partner role at an established firm to leading a boutique practice. She continues to split her time between courtroom appearances and advising clients on strategy and negotiation. Her current practice focuses on family law matters including custody, support, and property division.
