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Women's Rights Attorney

Guiding You Through Life’s Hardest Family Decisions

Whether you are facing divorce, custody issues, or planning for the future, we provide thoughtful legal guidance focused on protecting you, your children, and what matters most.

Feeling Stuck About Divorce or Custody Because of Stress, Cost, or Uncertainty?

You’re not the only one who feels this way. Many people delay making important legal decisions because traditional divorce and custody battles can seem overwhelming, expensive, and emotionally draining. Taking the first step can feel harder than the situation itself.
The good news is that the process does not have to be filled with conflict.
At Women’s Rights Attorney, we focus on helping clients resolve family law matters with respect, clarity, and a practical plan. Whether you are considering divorce, working through a custody arrangement, or planning for marriage with a prenuptial agreement, our goal is to guide you toward solutions that protect your future without unnecessary stress.
Our team understands these situations on a personal level. Several members of our firm have experienced divorce themselves, so we know how challenging this time can be. Because of that, we have created a process designed to give you support, direction, and confidence every step of the way.

A Simple Path Forward

Schedule a Conversation

We start with a call to understand your situation, your concerns, and what you want for the future.

Create a Clear Legal Strategy

During your strategy session, we explain your options and outline the next steps so you know exactly what to expect.

Move Forward with Confidence

With the right plan in place, you can make decisions calmly, reduce conflict, and focus on what matters most for you and your family.

Our Core Planning Areas

Divorce

Ending a marriage can be complicated, both emotionally and legally. We guide clients in Minnesota through the divorce process—from property division to spousal support—so you can make informed decisions at each step with confidence and clarity.

Child Custody

When children are involved, decisions can feel overwhelming. We focus on creating custody arrangements that serve the best interests of your children while supporting your role as a parent. Our approach is collaborative, clear, and centered on the well-being of your family.

Child Support

We help clients navigate child support matters, whether calculating, modifying, or enforcing agreements. Our goal is to provide fair, transparent guidance that reduces stress and helps families meet their needs.

Protection Orders

Whether you need an Order for Protection for domestic abuse or a Harassment Restraining Order for stalking or harassment, we provide support throughout the filing process. Attorney Derek Birkeland can assist with free or low-cost filings, making legal protection accessible when safety matters most.

About the Founder

Derek Birkeland

After a number of years practicing in house, working on negotiating agreements for financial firms, Derek decided that it is time to get back to his roots and purpose, helping people navigate an often complex legal system.
Everything changed when he began meeting women navigating high-conflict custody cases and situations involving domestic abuse. He saw how overwhelming the legal system can feel for someone already facing fear, uncertainty, and emotional exhaustion. In those moments, Derek discovered a deeper purpose: helping people find protection, clarity, and a path forward.
He transitioned his practice to family law with a focus on trauma-informed advocacy. Derek believes legal representation should not only be strategic and effective, but also grounded in compassion, patience, and respect for what clients are going through.
While Derek represents clients of all backgrounds, he is especially committed to supporting women facing difficult family transitions. Many women entering the legal system are dealing with power imbalances, fear, or years of being unheard. Derek’s approach centers on active listening, clear guidance, and creating a space where clients feel safe, supported, and confident as they move forward.
Derek practices trauma-informed advocacy, which means the legal strategy is built with an understanding of how stress, fear, and past harm can affect decision-making and communication.

What to Expect When You Book a Consultation

Reaching out to a lawyer for the first time can feel intimidating. The goal of the consultation is simple: to give you clarity about your situation and help you understand your options.

Step 1: Schedule Online

You can choose a time that works for you using the online scheduling tool. This makes it easy to book without phone calls or pressure.

Step 2: Meet with Derek on Zoom or in person

During your consultation, you’ll meet directly with Derek in a private Zoom meeting or in person. You’ll have the chance to explain what’s happening, ask questions, and share any concerns you have about your situation.

Step 3: Understanding Your Options

Derek will walk you through the legal landscape in Minnesota, explain possible next steps, and answer your questions. The goal is to help you leave the conversation feeling more informed and less overwhelmed.

Deciding What Comes Next

At the end of the consultation, you’ll understand what options are available to you. Some people decide to move forward with representation, while others simply leave with clearer information about their situation. The decision is always yours.