For nearly two decades, family law attorney Neveen Kurtom Phillips has guided Maryland families through some of life's most difficult transitions. From high-conflict custody disputes to complex divorces, she has built a reputation as a fierce advocate and trusted counselor for clients facing uncertainty about their future.
At the same time, Kurtom has navigated many of those life transitions herself. As the founder of The Law Office of Neveen Kurtom, she has built a successful legal practice while raising three sons, rebuilding her life after divorce, and recently creating a blended family with her husband, attorney Tony Phillips. Today, the Potomac resident sees both her personal and professional journeys as proof that difficult endings can lead to meaningful new beginnings.
"People often come to me during one of the hardest periods of their lives," Kurtom said. "I want them to know that while the process can be difficult, there is a path forward."
Kurtom immigrated to the United States from Kuwait at age seven and grew up in Beltsville
alongside her seven siblings. She credits much of her work ethic and determination to her
mother.
"My mother is my hero," she said. "She taught me the importance of family, resilience, and
independence. She showed me that women can be strong professionals while remaining
devoted mothers and caregivers."
After beginning her legal career as a prosecutor and later working in private practice, Kurtom
realized she wanted more control over her schedule and her future. At just 26 years old, she
opened her own law firm.
“I wanted to be an attorney without sacrificing my family life,” she said. “I knew I needed to
build something that allowed me to do both.”
That decision laid the foundation for a thriving practice that has now served Maryland families
for nearly 20 years. Kurtom focuses exclusively on family law matters, representing clients
in divorce, custody, child support, and related litigation. She believes her ability to listen
carefully and understand the emotional realities behind legal disputes is what distinguishes her
practice.
“People want an attorney who understands not only the law but also what they're going
through,” she said. “My goal is to provide honest advice, practical solutions, and strong
advocacy while helping clients move forward.”
Many of Kurtom’s cases span months or even years, allowing her to build lasting relationships
with clients. The most rewarding part of her work, she says, is helping families find stability and
begin a new chapter.
That perspective became even more meaningful following her own divorce. After several years
on her own, Kurtom met Phillips. The two were married last year and have since blended their
families, creating a busy, active household of five children, from elementary school to high
school, and adults that are full of energy.
Their Potomac home is often filled with basketball games, scout meetings, dance recitals, family
dinners, and weekend activities. Like many modern families, balancing schedules requires
teamwork, flexibility, and a healthy sense of humor.
“We call it divide and conquer,” Kurtom said, describing the family’s approach with a laugh.
“Every week looks a little different, but we make it work.”
The family enjoys spending time together outdoors, attending sporting events, traveling, and
creating new traditions. Last year, the kids had fun doing their own Secret Santa gift exchange.
For Kurtom, some of the most meaningful moments have been watching relationships develop
naturally among the children and seeing a new family identity emerge.
“I love seeing how people can come together through love, patience, and commitment,” she
said. “Blended families take work, but they can be incredibly rewarding.”
Kurtom believes those experiences have strengthened her ability to relate to clients who are
facing major life changes of their own.
“I understand what it means to rebuild,” she said. “I understand the challenges that come with
co-parenting, change, and uncertainty. More importantly, I know that happiness and stability
are still possible on the other side.”
Today, whether she’s advocating for a client in court or cheering from the sidelines at one of
her children’s activities, Kurtom remains focused on the same principle that has guided both
her personal life and her legal career: helping families move forward.
“Life isn't perfect,” she said. “There will always be challenges. But you can take control of your
future, create balance, and build a life that reflects what matters most to you.”
"I understand what it means to rebuild after major life changes. More importantly, I know that stability, happiness, and a fresh start are possible on the other side."
"You can take control of your future, even during difficult transitions. The right guidance can make all the difference."