Kristine J. Rea

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Attorney/Partner, Rea | Ripley Law

Kristine J. Rea serves as founding partner of Rea | Ripley Law. A New York native, she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism from the University of Maryland, College Park, and received her law degree from the University of Baltimore. Rea was admitted to the bar in 2005 and has practiced family law throughout her career.

Before co-founding her current firm, Rea worked as managing attorney and member of the Appellate Practice Division at one of the country’s largest national family law firms. She concentrates her practice in divorce, child custody, parenting agreements, separation agreements, pre-nuptial and anti-nuptial agreements, alimony, marital property division, child support, visitation, paternity, UCCJEA issues and jurisdictional disputes.

What’s the most important thing you do in your job?

Family matters are deeply personal, multidimensional, and frequently charged with emotion. Regrettably, the legal system can be complex and challenging for individuals to navigate on their own.

I believe it is my duty to genuinely understand my clients and every detail of their situation, enabling me to guide them through one of the most trying periods of their lives and aid them in determining the best path forward.

What qualities do you need to be a successful family law practitioner?

A successful family law practitioner combines legal expertise with empathy, clear communication, and professionalism. They balance strong advocacy with practical problem-solving, remain calm in conflict, and guide clients through emotional challenges with compassion and integrity. Strong communication skills — both listening and explaining complex issues clearly — are essential, as is the ability to remain calm under pressure and avoid being drawn into unnecessary conflict.

Outside of your legal practice, what activities or interests are you passionate about?

Outside of work, I value time spent with family and friends at our home on the Jersey Shore. Much of my free time is spent on the field supporting one of my three children, but I also enjoy quiet dinners with my husband and the chance to unwind with a good book.

This profile is part of The Daily Record's Family Law Power List for 2025. Information used in this profile was sourced from the honoree. See the full list at origintdrdev.wpengine.com.