Monica H. Donaldson Stewart - Chandler, AZ

Overview

Practical Experience. Strategic Resolution.

Monica Donaldson Stewart is the managing attorney at Donaldson Stewart, P.C., where she focuses exclusively on family law, helping clients navigate prenuptial agreements, divorce, legal separation, parenting time, child support, and other complex transitions with clarity and confidence.

With nearly three decades of experience, Monica brings a calm, strategic approach to each case. Her goal is simple: to help clients resolve their family law matters efficiently and respectfully.

A Focus on Settlement

Monica is a trained mediator and collaborative divorce professional. She has served as a Judge Pro Tem for the Maricopa County Superior Court since 2007, where she has conducted more than 150 settlement conferences in family law matters. This resolution-focused perspective allows her to see cases from all sides—and helps her clients reach practical, long-lasting agreements without unnecessary conflict. Monica believes litigation should be a last resort, not a default strategy.

Education and Credentials

- Arizona State University, B.S., Political Science, summa cum laude (1993)

- Arizona State University, J.D. (1997)

- Bar Admissions: Arizona State Courts and U.S. District Court, District of Arizona (1997)

Monica began her legal career with a strong foundation in mediation, completing a semester-long clinic during law school. She completed her first collaborative divorce training in 2009 with the Collaborative Divorce Institute and has continued advanced training in the years since.

Leadership and Recognition

Monica is a respected leader in the legal community. She is a member of the Collaborative Professionals of Phoenix and her past service includes:

- President, East Valley Bar Association (2008–09)

- Treasurer, East Valley Bar Association (2010–19)

- Secretary, East Valley Bar Association (2020–21)

- Secretary, Maricopa County Association of Family Mediators (2018–20)

- Board of Legal Specialization, State Bar of Arizona (2009–2020)

She has been recognized by Super Lawyers as a Southwest Rising Star (2012–2013) and has been named a Southwest Super Lawyer every year since 2019.

Beyond the Office

Monica’s blended family includes her husband, six adult children and several four-legged family members. She enjoys nature photography, is an avid reader and is a published author of several novels. Monica understands that life is complex, and she believes that the legal process shouldn’t make it harder.