Patricia E. Apy, Of Counsel at Chinn & Associates, PC, brings a wealth of insights and a compassionate approach to her work in international and interstate family law. With a keen focus on guiding clients through the intricate landscape of separation and divorce, Patricia is dedicated to preserving the well-being of families and facilitating practical solutions for their children amid challenging circumstances.
Her extensive experience spans the globe, having litigated child custody cases internationally and skillfully crafted enforceable, multi-jurisdictional agreements. Patricia's adept handling of complex international parental abduction matters has earned her recognition as a sought-after co-counsel in international family law.
Notably, Patricia is a trusted consultant to esteemed entities such as the U.S. Department of State, the Department of Defense, and members of Congress, leveraging her robust network of diplomatic connections and professional relationships. Her invaluable insights have led her to testify three times before Congress, advocating for crucial legislation regarding international parental abduction and offering her insights on child custody matters, especially concerning military members.
Recognized for her nuanced approach, Patricia navigates cases involving religious law and the resolution of child custody disputes with utmost sensitivity and respect. Her commitment to her clients' well-being and influential contributions to legal discourse distinguish Patricia as a compassionate advocate and an authority in international family law.
Lecturer and Commentator
As an esteemed lecturer and commentator in international family law, Patricia E. Apy extends her influence beyond legal practice, actively engaging in education and advocacy. Her commitment to knowledge dissemination and insightful commentary underscores her dedication to advancing the understanding of complex legal issues.
Patricia has earned guest faculty positions at prestigious institutions such as the Judge Advocate General School of the United States Army at the University of Virginia, the United States Naval Justice School, and the United States Air Force Judge Advocate General School.
In recognition of her impactful advocacy, Patricia was honored with the New Jersey State Bar Association’s Legislative Service Award in 2010. This esteemed accolade celebrated her pivotal role in proposing legislation to amend New Jersey’s child custody law, specifically enhancing protections for deployed military parents.
Educational Background
- Juris Doctorate Degree, Case Western Reserve University School of Law, Cleveland, Ohio, 1986
- Continuing legal education at the Harvard Law School Islamic Legal Studies Program
- Master’s Degree (Social Work, with a clinical concentration in Family and Children), the University of Missouri – Columbia, School of Public Service, 1986
- Bachelor's Degree (Social Work, with a concentration in Community Organization and Human Rights), Oral Roberts University, Tulsa, Oklahoma
Professional Organizations
- Member of State and local bar associations
- Leader in the American Bar Association in her field
- Fellow of the International Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers
Past Memberships & Service
- Chair of the International Law and Procedures Committee of the Family Law section of the ABA
- Member of the Legal Assistance for Military Personnel Committee of the ABA
