Carolyn Abbate

Carolyn M. Abbate serves as the Family Law Division Lead at Fairfax County Criminal Defense Attorneys. Over the course of her career, she has earned a strong reputation for her adept handling of complex divorce, custody, and support cases throughout Northern Virginia.

An Arlington native, Carolyn brings both local insight and legal precision to her practice. After earning her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Virginia in 2004, she went on to graduate cum laude from George Mason University School of Law in 2009. While at George Mason, Carolyn demonstrated academic and professional excellence, receiving the prestigious Family Law Book Award from the Virginia State Bar and the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.

Following law school, she served as a law clerk to the Judges of Virginia’s 17th Judicial Circuit in Arlington County from 2009 to 2010, a foundational experience that shaped her deep understanding of family law litigation and courtroom procedure.

Carolyn’s dedication to client service and her reputation for professionalism have earned her numerous accolades, including recognition in The Best Lawyers in America (2024), Virginia Super Lawyers (2023), and multiple listings as a Top Attorney by Arlington Magazine (2019, 2021–2024).

In 2024, Carolyn was elected to the Board of Directors for the Arlington County Bar Association, where she continues to contribute to the legal community. Clients and peers alike commend her for her clarity, responsiveness, and commitment to helping families move forward with dignity and stability.

Whether negotiating settlements or litigating in court, Carolyn brings over 15 years of focused legal experience and unwavering dedication to each case she handles.