Staff Profiles
Vera A. Livingstone
Attorney, Owner
Taylor Oliphant, JD
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As a family law clerk, Taylor Oliphant is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective advocacy for clients navigating complex domestic transitions. She earned her Juris Doctor from California Western School of Law in May 2026 and sat for the California Bar Exam in July 2026.
During her legal education and clinical externships, Taylor gained hands-on experience managing complex family law litigation from initial consultation through final judgment, including drafting Requests for Orders, arguing oral motions, managing discovery, and supporting evidentiary trials and domestic violence restraining order (DVRO) hearings. During law school, Taylor pursued a concentration in Alternative Dispute Resolution, which provided her with advanced knowledge and practical expertise in settlement negotiations and mediation.
In addition to her litigation background, she is a published author for a West Academic textbook focusing on the intersection of Artificial Intelligence and the law, with a specialization in AI statutory regulation. Her broader experience includes serving as a judicial intern at the Second Judicial District Court of Nevada under the Honorable Kathleen M. Drakulich and as a legal assistant in the family law and civil litigation practices.
Education and Experience
Taylor holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a minor in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.
Outside of the office
You can often find Taylor at the beach, wake surfing, or hitting the ski slopes in Lake Tahoe with her family.
Britney “Brit” Malpiede
Senior Attorney
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Brit brings to Livingstone Law more than a decade of family law litigation experience including high-asset dissolutions and high-conflict custody cases. Britney is client-focused and believes effective advocacy begins with listening. Understanding each client’s priorities, concerns, and goals is paramount to building a productive and trusting attorney-client relationship and ultimately achieving the client’s stated goals.
Her approach to family law is practical and strategic. Brit recognizes that each client and each client’s case is unique and requires an equally unique solution.
When cooperation is possible—particularly when children are involved—she believes a thoughtful and cooperative approach can often produce effective results while reducing unnecessary conflict.
When informal resolution is not possible, Brit brings with her significant trial and motion experience. She employs a strategic and assertive approach to achieve results.
This balance between thoughtful problem-solving and effective litigation makes Brit an excellent addition to the Livingstone Law team.
Experience and Education
Brit is a member of the State Bar of California and is admitted to practice before the United States District Court for the Southern District of California.
She earned her Juris Doctor from California Western School of Law, where she was named to the Dean’s List, received an Award for Academic Excellence and other academic recognition, and served as President of the Women’s Law Caucus.
Brit earned her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, cum laude, from Colorado State University.
Beyond the Office
Originally from Colorado, Brit has a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors. When she is not practicing law, she enjoys yoga, camping, hiking, cycling, international travel, spending time with friends, and exploring new places with her dog, Lula.
Her adventurous spirit and Colorado roots continue to fuel her love of being outside whenever she has the opportunity.
Elaine Graze
Office Manager
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Elaine has more than 35 years of experience as a paralegal, legal assistant, and office manager. She has been an essential part of legals teams for family law, business, and civil law offices. She is originally from Los Angeles but has called San Diego her home for more than 30 years. Elaine is a huge asset for Livingstone Law, APC.
Melissa Rodriguez Martinez
Paralegal
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Melissa Rodriguez Martinez is a native San Diegan who earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a Concentration in Public Law and Bachelor of Science in Cognitive Psychology from UC San Diego. During her undergraduate studies, Melissa served as a JusticeCorps Intern at the San Diego Superior Court Family Law Facilitator's Office. She is passionate about serving clients and helping them navigate their family law matters. In her free time, Melissa enjoys staying active, painting, and spending time with her family.
Chloe James
Paralegal
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Chloe James has been a member of the Livingstone Law team since 2025. A versatile and driven paralegal, she prioritizes efficiency and excellence while helping attorneys and clients navigate every stage of a family law matter. Chloe approaches each assignment with precision, organization, and relentless drive. Just as importantly, Chloe builds strong relationships with clients, attorneys, and colleagues and helps keep cases moving forward through thoughtful communication, careful preparation, and close attention to deadlines.
Experience and Education
A proud San Diego native, Chloe graduated early from the University of California, Berkeley in 2024 with a Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies, and a distinction in general scholarship. She was named to the Dean’s List and served as a student manager for the Division 1 Women’s Basketball team, where she developed the leadership, teamwork, and discipline she brings to her legal work today.
Before joining Livingstone Law, Chloe gained legal experience through an internship with Legal Services for Prisoners with Children in Oakland. She looks forward to attending law school in Fall 2027 and continuing to pursue her goals with heart and hustle.
Beyond the Office
Outside of work, Chloe enjoys surfing with friends and watching NBA basketball
Collin Micelli
Research Specialist & Paralegal
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Collin Micelli brings more than seven years of family law experience to Livingstone Law while pursuing his Juris Doctor at California Western School of Law. He is known for meticulous work, thoughtful legal analysis, and clear, focused writing. His briefs distill complex issues and communicate the relevant law directly and effectively to the court.
At Livingstone Law, Collin supports attorneys through legal research, drafting pleadings and motions, litigation strategy, and trial preparation. His research has covered a broad range of family law matters, including child custody and support, property division, and evidentiary issues. He also works extensively on cases involving minor’s counsel, helping ensure that the child’s best interests remain central.
Collin began his legal career in Reno, Nevada, working as a family law clerical assistant while completing his undergraduate studies. Since beginning law school, he has continued to build on that experience through law clerk positions in San Diego, assisting attorneys with litigation and trial preparation.
Experience and Education
Collin is pursuing his Juris Doctor at California Western School of Law and is expected to graduate in Spring 2027. He has earned recognition on the Dean’s Honor List and ranks among the top of his class. He has also developed his courtroom advocacy skills through trial practice coursework and trial competitions.
He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics, with a minor in English focused on Creative Writing, from the University of Nevada, Reno.
Outside the Office
Collin enjoys exploring San Diego’s coffee shops, spending time at the beach or on a boat, baking—especially sourdough bread—practicing yoga, and spending time with family and friends. He also enjoys diving into a good book.
Collin’s analytical skills, careful attention to detail, and commitment to clear legal advocacy make him a valued member of the Livingstone Law team.
Tiffany Zapelli
Senior Paralegal
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Tiffany R. Zappelli brings 20 years of legal experience to her role as Senior Paralegal at Livingstone Law. Her background spans litigation, case management, legal research, discovery, document preparation, and coordinating cases from start to finish.
Special Skills
Tiffany is especially skilled in discovery and organizing complex financial information. She helps identify and track assets, creating detailed spreadsheets that make important information easier for attorneys and clients to review. Her thorough, methodical approach helps ensure key details are accounted for and cases stay organized and moving forward.
Background
Before joining Livingstone Law, Tiffany worked in civil litigation, bankruptcy, and real estate, handling complex, high-volume caseloads. Her experience includes preparing pleadings and discovery, coordinating settlement agreements, managing court filings, and supporting trial preparation. She also has experience in law firm operations and staff supervision.
In family law, Tiffany understands that clients may be facing deeply personal and difficult circumstances. She works closely with attorneys and clients to provide dependable support, communicate clearly, and help clients feel informed throughout the process.
Experience and Education
Tiffany earned a Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies from Purdue University and an Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies from Kaplan University. She is also a Notary Public.
Beyond the Office
Outside of work, Tiffany enjoys exploring farmers markets, volunteering with senior dog rescues, and cheering on her son at his football games.
Tiffany’s extensive experience, discovery skills, and commitment to careful case preparation make her a valued member of the Livingstone Law team!
Natasha “Tasha” Smith
Senior Paralegal
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Natasha “Tasha” Smith brings a decade of family law experience, a strong sense of service, and a thoughtful, client-centered approach to her role as Senior Paralegal at Livingstone Law.
Tasha is known for her exceptional attention to detail and organization. She works diligently to keep cases on track and is always ready to help. Just as importantly, she builds excellent relationships with clients, offering professionalism, compassion, and steady support during challenging times.
Tasha has significant experience working on military divorces, separation of military assets, and has a wealth of knowledge regarding all military issues.
Experience
A Virginia Beach native and Navy veteran, Tasha’s path to the legal profession began during her military service, when she had the opportunity to work alongside Navy Judge Advocate General attorneys at the Defense Service Office. That experience sparked her interest in the law. Though initially drawn to criminal law, she ultimately found her calling in family law, where she helps individuals and families navigate significant life transitions.
Background
For the past 10 years, Tasha has worked as a family law paralegal, developing a deep understanding of the legal process and the care these matters require. Her military service instilled a strong sense of discipline, commitment, and service—qualities she brings to her work with clients and colleagues every day.
At Livingstone Law, excellent representation includes careful preparation and dependable support throughout the legal process. Tasha brings both to her work, along with a genuine desire to help clients feel heard and supported. We are grateful to have her as a Senior Paralegal on our team.
Hear from Our Happy Clients
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“She is truly worth her weight in gold”
She handled my dissolution case with class. She allowed me to be free of worries and stress by dealing with all the paperwork. She is truly worth her weight in gold. She is an excellent lawyer, and pushes for what is best for you and family. Amazing work and amazing legal team. Thank you!
– Kristabel
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“We highly recommend her service”
Vera is awesome! Even though we are located out of the area, she was still able to provide us with crucial information and took the time out of her hectic schedule to review our concerns. Her vast knowledge of family situations in the courtroom really gave us a clear perspective on what could happen and what to be prepared for! We highly recommend her service.
- Previous Client
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“Above & Beyond”
This woman went above and beyond in my time of need she provided me with my rights to help calm me down. When dealing with crazy people trying to grasp onto your child by taking you to court is heartbreaking. She took time out of her 10 hour day work schedule to help. For free.
- Previous Client
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“Very Knowledgeable”
On November 30, 2012 I contacted Vera for a consultation. She was very friendly and professional. She made me feel comfortable and at ease as though I had known her for years. She was very knowledgeable and was able to answer all my questions and welcomed me to give her a call back if needed. I would definitely recommend her as a lawyer.
- Previous Client
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“I would recommend her to anyone that needed a great lawyer”
Great person and lawyer to use. Vera took over my case from another lawyer, fixed everything that wasn't right, and did everything needed to win my case. I would recommend her to anyone that needed a great lawyer.
- John
