Utah family law- McKaela Dangerfield
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Education

S.J. Quinney College of Law, University of Utah
- Juris Doctor, HonorsUniversity of Utah
- Bachelor of Science, Political Science
- Bachelor of Social Work

Memberships and Board Positions

Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC), Member
Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake City, Board of Trustees
Young Lawyers Division, CLE Committee, Board Member

McKaela Dangerfield

Attorney


McKaela is an attorney at Hawkes Quam, LLC. She practices family law exclusively. McKaela is a dedicated advocate who pursued a career in family law to support families and children during their most challenging moments. Drawing from her previous experience with the Division of Child and Family Services, McKaela developed a profound appreciation for the complexities of family dynamics within the legal system. Her background in social work equips her with a profound sense of empathy, compassion, and understanding, making her uniquely qualified to assist families and children in navigating legal proceedings.

McKaela’s unwavering commitment to family law is evident in her work and advocacy. While in law school at the S.J. Quinney College of Law (University of Utah), McKaela directed the Pro Bono Initiative’s Family Law Site, overseeing the coordination of local volunteer family law attorneys. Her role involved organizing attorneys to offer brief, pro bono legal consultations to families in need who were unable to afford representation in family law matters.

During law school, McKaela clerked for the Utah Attorney General’s Office in the Child Protection Division, and for Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake City, where she assisted in the free representation to low-income families and victims of domestic violence in family law cases.

Awards

Outstanding Student Leader (2024)
Pro Bono Initiative Service Certificate, (2024)
CALI Excellence for the Future Award (highest grade), Family Law (2023)
CALI Excellence for the Future Award (highest grade), Juvenile Law (2023)
Outstanding Academic Achievement Award, Trial Advocacy (2023)

Reviews for McKaela

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I wasn't sure what to expect at first, but Mckaela exceeded every expectation. She came to my divorce mediation fully prepared, knew my case inside and out, and had a stronger command of the law than the opposing counsel.She understood what was truly worth fighting for and when to pivot, saving me time, money, and stress. Thanks to her expertise, I walked away with a far better financial outcome than anticipated and some major wins in our parenting plan.I'm incredibly grateful to have had Mckaela and her AMAZING paralegal Brooke, in my corner during such a diffcult process.

Erin A
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Having Mckaela Dangerfield represent me was a great decision. From the consultation to the end of the case she was compassionate, caring, fast with communication and ensured the case was handled fairly.I would recommend hiring Mckaela for any family law matter as you will always have an advocate on your side to swiftly guide you through the process.

– Jason B
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McKaela and her team saved me from what could've been an ongoing, lengthy, traumatic divorce from my ex. They were prompt, kind, compassionate and caring. The outcome was far better than I could've ever imagined due to McKaela's hard work and dedication. Do not hesitate to hire her, especially if you're leaving an abusive situation. The manner in which she handles the sensitive situation is respectful and comforting. I will be forever grateful.

– Jen Y
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We hired McKaela Dangerfield to help with a second parent adoption for our daughter. She was professional and everything ran smoothly. The judge even complimented how thorough she was! Would definitely use her again and recommend her to anyone looking.

– Kenzi A