Photo of Chelsea J. Strauss

LEGAL ASSISTANT

Melissa DiFalco

From the earliest days of her legal career, Chelsea has been drawn to family law for one compelling reason: it centers on people.

Her practice is rooted in the belief that law should be a tool not just for resolving disputes, but for supporting individuals through some of their most difficult and personal transitions. Chelsea represents individuals in a wide range of domestic relations matters, including divorce, asset division, alimony, custody and child support related issues, modifications, and contempts. Whether the case involves a contested divorce issue or a collaborative approach to separation, she offers strategic advocacy and steady guidance. Clients value her ability to demystify the legal process, explain options clearly, and help them make informed decisions that reflect their values and long-term goals.

Chelsea is a hands-on advocate who believes that legal skills alone are inadequate without clear communication. She prioritizes being accessible, listening, and guiding clients with honesty and empathy. Her approach is never one-size-fits-all—every case is met with fresh thinking and a deep understanding of the emotional stakes involved.

Chelsea is equally adept in the courtroom and in alternative dispute resolution settings, such as mediation and conciliation. As the field of family law continues to shift toward out-of-court solutions, she remains at the forefront of these developments, offering balanced counsel that aligns with each client’s unique needs and circumstances.

Her clients often come to her overwhelmed, worried about their future, their families, and what life will look like after the legal process ends. Chelsea provides clarity, calm, and often a dose of levity when needed most, reminding clients that there is light at the end of the tunnel.

Chelsea practiced at a boutique family law firm on the North Shore of Massachusetts before joining Rubin Rudman. She has dedicated her entire career to family law, gaining experience early on as a judicial clerk and law clerk in both court and firm settings. Her longstanding commitment to the practice of family law is matched by her unwavering dedication to the individuals and families she serves.

LEGAL SOLUTIONS

Protected Substantial Inherited Wealth in Divorce Settlement

  • Represented a client with significant inherited assets and complex trust interests. Through careful strategy and negotiation, Chelsea successfully preserved the integrity of those assets during the divorce process, ensuring the assets remained protected and available for the client’s long-term financial security.

Secured Custody Agreement Through Out-of-Court Resolution

Helped a client navigate a highly contentious custody dispute without the need for litigation. By prioritizing thoughtful negotiation and collaboration, Chelsea secured a parenting plan that aligned with her client’s goals and supported the well-being of his young children, allowing him to move forward with stability in his family and professional life.

Obtained Disproportionate Division of Assets

Advocated successfully for a client to receive a significantly disproportionate division of assets after a long-term marriage.

CREDENTIALS

Education

  • JD, Suffolk University Law School, 2017
  • BA, Syracuse University, 2014

Bar Admissions

  • Massachusetts
resources

Experience in practice

33rd Annual Family Law Conference, Massachusetts Bar Association (October 2024, Moderator)

  • Massachusetts Bar Association, Director-at-Large Young Lawyers Division
  • Lawyers for the Day Program, Volunteer
  • Boston Bar Association