Yvonne Armendáriz
I learned early what it means to navigate different worlds at once.
Growing up as a first-generation Mexican-American in El Paso – a city of two vibrant but distinct cultures – meant learning to move between different worlds every day. I saw firsthand how families could feel unseen or misunderstood in systems that didn’t speak their language or know their culture.
Those experiences taught me the importance of advocacy and respect, and shaped the way I guide my clients.
I had the privilege of watching Attorney Armendariz during a trial for my fiancé, and it was truly remarkable to witness her in action. Her level of professionalism is extraordinary, but what stood out even more was her genuine care for her clients. She didn’t just advocate—she truly listened. Watching her command the courtroom with such focus, heart, and strength was incredible. It was clear that she was not just doing a job; she was fighting for her client’s best interest with everything she had.
Yvonne's expertise and clarity gave me confidence throughout the process, while Joanna's attention to detail and consistent communication ensured that everything was handled efficiently. Together, they worked tirelessly to help me achieve a positive outcome, and their unwavering support made me feel truly cared for as a client.
Attorney Yvonne Armendariz is an excellent lawyer. She is very kind and professional. She helped me with my case, and I am very satisfied and happy with the results. I recommend her 100%.
I’ve always felt a deep sense of responsibility to stand up for my community and ensure families have a voice.
That perspective carried me through college, where I served as vice president of my university’s Latino student group, and law school, where I led the Hispanic Law Society for two years.
My time at the University of Pennsylvania helped me understand how it feels to enter spaces where your experiences and culture aren’t recognized, while an internship with the Indiana Commission on Latino Affairs and studying Latin American legal systems abroad gave me insight into how culture shapes expectations and rights.
I came to North Carolina in 2006 and soon began leading family law cases for the local Latino community. Over the past two decades, I’ve built close, trusted relationships with clients, guiding them through divorce, child custody, and property disputes with clarity and compassion. I make sure families understand the process, feel respected in court, and are never left to face the system alone. My goal is always to protect what clients have worked so hard to build: their homes, their children, and their futures.
In 2022, my professionalism was recognized when I was inaugurated as the first Latina President of the Wake County Bar Association in its 100-year history—the largest bar association of attorneys in North Carolina.
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I’m known for being resourceful, determined, and fiercely loyal to the families I represent.
I work directly with every client and collaborate with other attorneys when creative solutions are possible. I make sure nothing falls through the cracks. That attention to detail and personal care has earned me consistent referrals from both attorneys and past clients.
Outside the office, I treasure time with my family and enjoy hiking, Latin American literature, global cuisine, and stand-up comedy. I’m proud of my children’s achievements – my daughter, who is pursuing her PhD at Stanford University, served as one of the first Latina presidents of her sorority, and my son, pursuing his PhD at UPenn, served in multiple leadership roles in science and sports. They both reflect the values of resilience, curiosity, and dedication that guide my work every day.
Every family I represent deserves to feel safe, heard, and protected. Having grown up navigating different communities and traditions taught me how much understanding and advocacy matter, and that’s the lens I bring to every case. Each case I take is about helping families move forward with clarity, respect, and the confidence that they’re not facing these challenges alone.
Education
Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law
J.D., MPA
Latin American Law Summer Program at Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Argentina
Comparative Law Program with emphasis on Latin American Legal Systems and Trade Law (Fulbright Sponsored)
The Wharton School
International Business - Post-Baccalaureate courses
University of Pennsylvania
Bachelor's Degree, History
Board Memberships & Professional Associations
President, Wake County Bar Association, 2022
NC Administrative Office of the Courts, Language Access Stakeholder 2023- Present
Board of Directors, Wake County Bar Association, 2018 – 2021
Founder, Triangle Latino Attorney Network (TLAN)
Member, Exhibition Advisory Committee, CAM Raleigh (Contemporary Art Museum),
Member, 10th Judicial/WCBA Nominations Committee, 2019 – Present
Member, 10th Judicial/WCBA Bench/Bar Committee, 2019 – Present
Chair and Founding Member, Wake County Bar Association, Leadership Development Committee 2014 – 2017
Member, 10th Judicial/WCBA Grievance Committee, 2015 – 2018
Board of Directors, Triangle Literacy Council 2014 – 2018
Board of Directors, Diamante, Inc. 2009 – 2011
Admitted to North Carolina Bar 2007
Get in Touch with Our Legal Team
Are you looking for a family law attorney in Raleigh, NC and surrounding areas?
At Armendáriz Law Office, we take the time to understand your situation, explain your options, and advocate for you with clarity and care.