Kaitlin Santibanez, JD
Kaitlin Santibanez, JD, is a dedicated Trial Attorney at Avalos Family Trial Attorneys in Greater Houston, specializing in family law, child welfare, and civil litigation. Driven by a personal journey as an emancipated youth, Kaitlin combines her legal expertise with a deep commitment to advocacy for vulnerable children and families. Her approach emphasizes protecting parental rights, supporting foster youth, and ensuring equitable outcomes for her clients.
Kaitlin earned her Juris Doctor from South Texas College of Law Houston and holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from the University of Houston. Her education provides a strong foundation for understanding human behavior, relationships, and the social dynamics that inform her legal practice. Throughout her career, she has gained experience in family law, civil, criminal, immigration, and personal injury law through clerkships and internships, including roles with Covington Law Firm and the Honorable Judge Angela L. Graves-Harrington’s family court.
Beyond the courtroom, Kaitlin is actively engaged in her community. She founded Shack Track & Field, a wellness-focused social running club, and contributes to causes such as The Snowdrop Foundation, the Houston Area Women’s Center, Boys and Girls Country of Houston, and The Lighthouse of Houston. An avid long-distance runner, she brings the same dedication, perseverance, and teamwork from her personal pursuits to her legal practice, mentoring young professionals and advocating for systemic improvements in child welfare and family law.
• Licensed Civil Mediator
• University of Houston – Bachelor of Science (BS), Psychology; Minor in Sociology
• South Texas College of Law Houston – Doctor of Law (JD)
• Cowley Award of Excellence in Family Law
• Family Law Award Recipient
• Texas Bar Association
• Texas Hispanic Bar Association
• American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division
• Founder, Children – Shack Track & Field
• Fundraiser, The Snowdrop Foundation
• Community Lead, Houston-Montrose Chapter Social Run Club
• Volunteer Assistant, Houston Area Women’s Center
• Mentor, Boys and Girls Country of Houston
• Volunteer, The Lighthouse of Houston
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to resilience and determination. Growing up as an unaccompanied youth, I learned early on the importance of perseverance, self-advocacy, and working tirelessly toward my goals. My personal experiences drive my commitment to family law and advocacy, allowing me to approach my work with empathy, focus, and a deep understanding of the challenges my clients face.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women entering the legal profession to stay committed to their passions and never underestimate the value of their unique perspectives. In family law especially, empathy, patience, and dedication to justice are essential. Seek mentorship, remain curious, and use every opportunity to learn from experienced professionals.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in family law is navigating complex cases involving children in foster care or parental rights disputes. At the same time, these challenges create opportunities to make meaningful, lasting impacts in the lives of vulnerable families and to advocate for systemic improvements in child welfare and family support programs.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Transparency, compassion, and integrity are central to both my professional and personal life. I believe in advocating for others with honesty and empathy, while also prioritizing wellness, teamwork, and community engagement outside of work. These values guide my practice and my commitment to helping children, families, and the broader community thrive.