MD and DC family law attorney Katherine O’Rourke

Conflict is at the core of many divorces and can produce volatile emotions. Divorcing clients appreciate the combination of strength and compassion Katherine brings to her cases, especially when substance abuse, mental illness, domestic violence or contested child custody issues are involved. Katherine firmly believes in putting the children first in every divorce situation and in trying to reduce conflict between divorcing parents.  A skilled problem-solver, Katherine acts decisively on behalf of her clients and is known for moving forward in a prompt and effective way to achieve her client’s goals.

Katherine, a partner at Tucker PLLC, practices all aspects of family law including complex financial issues and child related matters. She has been litigating family law cases for over ten years.  As a former trial attorney with the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia, Katherine has extensive experience in the courtroom.  She ensures her clients understand the court process and are well prepared in the event a case goes to court.

A respected and skilled litigator, Katherine is equally comfortable negotiating and formulating settlement agreements for her clients that prioritize the needs of children in the process and focus on protecting a secure financial future.

Representative Matters

  • In the Matters of M.D. and B.D. – served as lead governmental counsel in termination of parental rights case. Affirmed by Judge Cheryl M. Long on April 13, 2007, and reported in the Daily Washington Law Reporter on May 14, 2007.

Honors/Awards

  • The Best Lawyers in America® – Family Law (2018-2023, 2025)
  • Selected to the Washington, DC, Super Lawyers list – Family Law (2019-2024)
  • Washingtonian Magazine, Top Lawyer – Divorce and Family Law (2017, 2018, 2023)

Classes/Seminars Taught

  • American University Law School, Guest Speaker – 2009, 2010
  • DC Family Court Training – Permanency for Children Including Termination of Parental Rights and Adoption Issues – February 2007
  • Child Protection Mediation Training – September 2006
  • The Child and Family Services Community Training – Teen Pregnancy – July 2005
  • Office of the Attorney General Trainings for Social Workers – 2005, 2006, 2007
  • DC Family Court Training – Adoption – July 2003
  • World Teach, Costa Rica – Volunteer Teacher – 1993

Previous Experience

  • Feldesman Tucker Leifer Fidell LLP, Partner (2013-2023)
  • Feldesman Tucker Leifer Fidell LLP, Associate (2008-2012)
  • Office of the Attorney General of the District of Columbia (2004-2008)
  • Hon. Nan R. Shuker, Superior Court, Washington, D.C. (2003-2004)
  • D.C. Bar Pro Bono Program (2001-2002)

"I encourage clients to focus on what matters most, so they can feel settled and empowered to begin the next stage of their lives.”

Education

  • J.D., Chicago-Kent College of Law
  • B.A., College of Wooster

Bar/Court Admissions

  • District of Columbia
  • Illinois
  • Maryland

Professional Memberships / Affiliations

  • Custody Workshop Committee, Chair
  • D.C. Bar, Family Law Steering Committee, Member
  • Domestic Violence Rules Committee, Member
  • Friends of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, Treasurer