For Stephanie Cañas Hunnell, owner of the Hunnell Law Group, practicing law has always been personal. Her childhood experience navigating her parents’ divorce instilled a determination to advocate for families and children during their most difficult moments — a mission that defines her boutique firm today.
Stephanie runs the practice with her husband, Rich Hunnell. The couple has worked together since 2007 and they have been married for 23 years, building both a family and a firm grounded in trust, collaboration and shared purpose.
Hunnell Law Group (HLG) focuses on family law, including divorce, child custody, child support and post-judgment issues, as well as complex estate administration. The team collaborates on every case, ensuring clients are supported even if one attorney is unavailable. “We really see good people, often at their worst,” Hunnell says. “It’s important to treat each client with empathy and make sure they feel heard.”
Inspired by Experience
When her mother, who could not read or write, struggled after divorce, Hunnell stepped in at just 11 years old to manage the family’s finances. That early responsibility fueled her desire for independence and eventually a career in law. After clerking for a family law judge, she quickly realized how much she loved the work. “I wanted to help families overcome the most difficult times of their lives and to help children navigate the divorce process,” she says.
A Community Approach
Hunnell and her team are deeply rooted in Asbury Park, where they have lived and worked for nearly two decades. Caitlin Holland, an attorney on the HLG team, works with community organizations to provide accessible legal services to residents from all walks of life. Hunnell has served as a board member for many local non-profits, including currently on the board of the Asbury Park Tennis Initiative, where she helped negotiate a deal to build tennis courts at the Barack Obama School.
In addition, she founded Cañas Legal Advocates for Children, a nonprofit providing pro bono and low-cost legal services, and hopes to expand the program to include counseling for children adjusting to new family structures.
A Lasting Impact
For Hunnell, the most rewarding part of her work is seeing lives changed. She recalls a former client introducing her to friends who praised her for helping secure custody of children who are now thriving, with one headed to college. “Knowing I had a little part in making that happen makes all the rough days worth it,” she says.
Even in the office, the firm emphasizes support. Clients — and attorneys — often find comfort in Phillip, the firm’s office dog, who has been known to ease tears during mediation.
Looking Ahead
Hunnell notes that family law is shifting, particularly in custody cases, where courts increasingly favor 50/50 parenting time. She stresses the importance of informed decisions, encouraging clients to gather information and seek second opinions if needed.
“As lawyers, we can provide guidance and perspective,” she says. “But ultimately, it’s about empowering clients to make the best choices for themselves and their families.”
For the Hunnells and their team, gratitude is central to their work — gratitude for the trust of their clients, the resilience of families, and the community they continue to serve.
For more information visit hunnelllaw.com.
Hunnell Law Group, LLC
Address: 908 Main St #1A, Asbury Park
Located in: Formerly the Tides Hotel
Phone: (732) 749-3500