Michelle Benedek-Barone

Partner

Michelle Benedek-Barone is a Partner in HDRB&B’s Matrimonial and Family Law Department. With a passion for helping clients navigate the complexities of high-stakes divorce proceedings, Michelle’s more than 20 years of expertise extends far beyond traditional family law practices.

Known for her strategic approach and keen legal insight, Michelle handles a broad spectrum of novel legal issues, offering her expertise as a fixer when divorce proceedings take unexpected turns. Her compassionate nature and hands-on approach allow her to provide unparalleled support to clients, guiding them step by step through their case. Michelle ensures her clients fully understand every aspect of their legal journey, providing frequent check-ins and comprehensive explanations to alleviate anxiety and uncertainty.

Michelle’s pursuit of excellence led her to earn an MBA, specializing in Finance and Management, enriching her practice. She collaborates seamlessly with forensic accountants, meticulously analyzing and uncovering gaps in discovery, especially in complex cases involving high net worth individuals and intricate financial structures. Michelle’s innovative strategies and ability to think outside the box consistently deliver favorable outcomes.

Previously, Michelle was a partner at Laufer, Dalena, Jensen, Bradley & Doran, LLC, and an associate at Cutler, Simeone, Townsend, Tomaio, & Newmark and Haber & Silver, PC. She began her legal career as a law clerk to the Honorable Stephan J. Schaeffer.

Michelle earned her Juris Doctor from Seton Hall University School of Law, obtained an MBA from Seton Hall University Stillman School of Business, and holds a certificate in Mergers and Acquisitions from the Wharton Aresty Institute of Executive Education at the University of Pennsylvania. She received her undergraduate degree from Drew University.

Admitted to the New Jersey State Bar and New Jersey District Court Bar, Michelle actively participates in the New Jersey State Bar Association and the Morris County Bar Association.

Beyond her legal accomplishments, Michelle volunteers in her community, previously serving on the Morris County Domestic Violence Crisis Response Team and Lecture Series. She can read braille and is passionate about bringing awareness to, and about, the capabilities of the visually impaired, blind, and disabled community.

Prior Experience

  • Partner, Laufer, Dalena, Jensen, Bradley & Doran, LLC, 2006-2023
  • Senior Associate, Cutler Simeone Townsend Tomaio & Newmark, LLC, 2003-2006
  • Associate, Haber and Silver, Esq., 2000-2003

Professional Affiliations

  • Morris County Bar Association
  • New Jersey State Bar Association
  • American Bar Association
  • Family Law Inn of Court

Honors & Awards

  • Listed in Super Lawyers®, New Jersey, 2020 – 2022
  • Listed in Super Lawyers® Rising Stars, New Jersey, 2011 – 2015

Awards Methodology

No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court of New Jersey,

Admitted to Practice

  • State of New Jersey

Education

  • Seton Hall University Stillman School of Business, Dual MBA, Finance & Management Concentrations, 2011

  • Wharton Aresty Institute of Executive Education, Certificate Program -Mergers and Acquisitions, 2008
  • Seton Hall University School of Law, J.D., 1999
  • Drew University, B.A. in History and minor in English, 1996