Samantha Lysk, J.D.

Why I Do What I Do

For me, it has always been about the children.

Before becoming an attorney, I was a teacher, working with students of all ages—from young children just beginning their journey through life to high school seniors preparing to take their first steps into adulthood. That experience shaped the way I view families, children, and the critical role adults play in guiding and protecting them during life’s most important transitions.

After graduating from Rutgers Law School, I went on to serve as a Deputy Attorney General representing the State of New Jersey’s child protective agency, the Division of Child Protection and Permanency. In this role, I worked closely with families navigating some of the most difficult and emotional circumstances imaginable, always with the goal of protecting children and promoting their safety and well-being.

Practice Summary

Today, I am honored to assist families during both joyful milestones, such as adoptions, and challenging transitions, including divorce, custody disputes, and matters involving child protective services. I understand how overwhelming these moments can feel, particularly when children are involved, and I am deeply committed to helping families move forward with dignity, clarity, and compassion.

While parents may disagree on what is best for their children or how to achieve it, I believe that meaningful, productive negotiation can often lead to solutions that serve the best interests of both parents and children—while minimizing conflict and avoiding unnecessary litigation. My goal is always to help families reach thoughtful, child-centered resolutions whenever possible. However, when cooperation is not an option and a child’s best interests are at risk, I am fully prepared to advocate aggressively in court on your behalf.

Whether in the classroom or in the courtroom, my work has always been guided by one principle: protecting children and prioritizing their well-being. I look forward to working with you as you take the next steps forward and begin a new chapter for your family.

Education

  • J.D., Widener University School of Law, 2003

  • B.S., Rutgers University (Camden), 1998

Bar Admissions

  • Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, 2003

  • State of New Jersey, 2003

  • United States District Court for the District of New Jersey, 2003

  • U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, 2010

 Professional Associations

  • New Jersey State Bar Association

  • Gloucester County Bar Association

Political Appointments

  • Mayor, Borough of Clayton, 2008 - 2009

  • Councilwoman, Borough of Clayton, 2004-2008 (President, 2006 term)

  • New Jersey Democrat Presidential Campaign Committee for Diversity, 2008

  • Secretary, Gloucester County Democratic Committee, 2008-2010

Past Experience

  • Hoffman Family Law

    • Founder (2014-present)

  • Hoffman & Mancini, PC

    • Founding Partner (2007-2014)

  •  Phelan Hallinan & Schmieg

    • Associate (2004-2007)

  • Honig & Greenberg

    • Associate (2003-2004)

 Giving Back

  • 2010 to present: Our Lady of Peace Parish Thanksgiving Food Drive

  • Toys for Tots

  • Gloucester County Bar Association Children’s Christmas Breakfast Shopper

  • Melissa Hoffman and her daughter walked at the Center For Family Services Empower 5k run/ 1 mile walk in October of 2018

Melissa Spears, J.D.-Spears Family Law
Melissa Spears, J.D.-Spears Family law
Melissa Hoffman, J.D. Family Law