Sean Martin

About Sean Martin

Sean J. Martin has practiced family law in Middle Tennessee for 25 years. Following his judicial clerkship for a family law court in Davidson County, Tennessee, he began trying, mediating, and negotiating family law disputes of every description. He found immediate success in family law by applying the lessons he learned as a judicial clerk.

Over the years, Sean developed a reputation as a talented courtroom advocate and skilled negotiator, and known for his ability to bring difficult cases to conclusion. He credits the success he has enjoyed to his “time in the trenches,” as he calls it.

“The best lawyers have tried lots of cases, argued lots of motions. They have been involved in heated, marathon negotiation sessions where the stakes are very, very high. Basically, they’ve been in the trenches, have the scars to prove it and use all that to deliver results.” — Sean Martin

Sean Martin as a Mediator:

In 2022 Sean completed the required coursework to become a Rule 31 mediator in the State of Tennessee. Sean’s approach to mediation is unique, summarized in his own words below:

A little about my approach:

“I approach mediation believing the case can be resolved.

I approach mediation aware of the opportunity it presents for parties to be the architects of their respective futures and, if kids are involved, their futures too, rather than forfeiting such planning to a judge who may lack critical perspective.

I approach mediation as a positive process that seeks common ground respecting parties’ core values, which may differ significantly, rather than a negative process that forces parties to compromise their values.

I approach mediation prepared for an emotional journey that may include sadness, anger, frustration, and ultimately…hope.

Throughout, I look forward to that moment where parties can not only see the light at the end of the tunnel, but all that lies in store for them once they emerge from it.”

Education

J.D., University of Tennessee
Knoxville, Tennessee

B.A., University of Tennessee
Knoxville, Tennessee

Yale University
New Haven, Connecticut

Professional Honors & Awards

Too numerous to mention.

Sean’s Publications

Sean has published dozens of articles in bar journals, magazines and on social media. Topics include:

Family Law
Mediation
Technology and the Practice of Law
U.S. Supreme Court
U.S. History
Trial Practice
Tips for Litigators
Data Privacy

News and Media Appearances

Tennessee Bar Association’s BarBuzz Podcast, Co-Host, March 2022

Top Testimonials

“Have known David Heller and Sean Martin for 20+ years. Highly recommend both of them. Dave did the estate plans and wills for my family. Sean finalized a 20 year post divorce property settlement in the middle of COVID and the winter holiday season. Thanks for your hard work, guys.” – Client

“Honestly you are like finding a pair of designer shoes in the most popular size 7…. on clearance in Saks.” – Client

“Sean Martin was all the things you want in an attorney under these circumstances — professional, patient, experienced and totally focused on the outcome we wanted for our family. He did a wonderful job helping steer this to closure and worked effectively with both of us. It’s not easy to balance being one party’s advocate while working fairly with the other, but he made it look that way. Highly recommend him.” – Client

“I could write a book on how Sean Martin and his team helped me get through my divorce last year. He was dependable and always considered what was best for me and my children. Communication with Sean was outstanding. I knew if I had an urgent question I would hear from him in a timely manner. Sean’s staff went above and beyond on many occasions to ensure I understood every step of the process. Sean was honest and gave me common sense advice that I was able to apply to my situation immediately for a desired result. To this day if I need a question answered about the case I would not hesitate calling his office. Everyone has was so kind from day one. This tragic event did not break me. At times I honestly thought it would. Sean’s team stood beside me and made sure my children and I were taken care of. I cannot say thank Sean and his staff enough. They have been a blessing to us.” – Client

“Sean Martin is the epitome of a southern gentleman. We have used Sean and his group for about 7 years now. He has been our attorney in regard to the custody of our little girl. He has been more like a family member than a lawyer. He has been there for us for every step in the game. After reading some of the other reviews I felt it necessary to rebut the negative ones from the anonymous internet troll. Everything that was said in those two reviews is absolutely the furthest thing from the truth. Sean has been supportive, available, and honest with us in EVERYTHING he’s ever done for us. Sean is, and will forever remain, top-notch people in our book!!” – Client

“Sean handled my case with the highest professionalism. It was a very difficult time for me and his legal guidance was very helpful. He made himself available when I had questions, kept me updated and explained each step throughout the entire process. I could not have asked for more. If you are looking for an excellent and knowledgeable attorney I would highly recommend Sean Martin.” – Client

“Sean took care of my divorce which was a bit heated. Ex was hostile and to say the least, a bully. Sean was caring, clear and concise throughout the divorce and was quick to step in and remind me that I was not alone. His paralegal Christina was also very helpful, quick to respond and most importantly very kind. This firm realizes that divorce is not an easy process and they go above and beyond to help facilitate a speedy and non-confrontational solution to everything!! His team is the perfect example of what a law firm should be, and frankly, anyone would be fortunate to have Sean represent them.” – Client

“Sean represented me during my extremely difficult and highly emotional divorce case. We were up against a powerful, and unagreeable, divorce attorney. I give Sean my highest of recommendations. He guided me through the whole process with professionalism, grace, and honesty.” – Client

“Thank you. This was my first time mediating with you, but it won’t be the last. Thank you for help in resolving this matter.” – Client

“Thank you, Sean! Everyone said you were the best – and they were right.” – Client

“Hey Sean, I just wanted to send you a huge thank you for all your hard work yesterday. I’ve never had need for anyone in your field, but I could not have asked for a better person to work with. You certainly are in the right profession, Your demeanor just provides a calming effect on an otherwise unnerving and excruciating situation. I’d love to stay in touch, although not as if in need of your professional services…. Parallel brothers!

Again, I can’t tell you how much I appreciate you and all you’ve done.” – Client

Next Team Member

David Heller