
Joseph A. Lambson
Partner
(314) 390-0231
Joseph A. Lambson is a seasoned Missouri family law litigator and civil litigation attorney who represents clients in high-stakes matters where the facts are contested, the stakes are high, and the human cost is real. Known for focused courtroom advocacy and disciplined negotiation strategy, Joe has tried dozens of cases in Missouri courts and has successfully argued cases before the Missouri Court of Appeals.

Joe’s family law practice centers on high-asset divorce and complex custody litigation. He regularly handles cases involving closely held businesses, professional practices, hidden or disputed income, and sophisticated financial issues that require careful investigation and clear presentation. In child custody matters, Joe is frequently involved in cases with serious allegations and safety concerns—including mental health issues, substance abuse, and domestic violence—where thorough preparation and a steady hand in court are essential.
In addition to his private practice, Joe has served as a Special Prosecutor in St. Louis County, prosecuting domestic violence cases.
Because of his experience handling complex family law disputes, judges frequently appoint Joe to serve as guardian ad litem for at-risk children. In that role, he investigates the child’s circumstances, works with relevant professionals, and makes recommendations designed to protect the child’s best interests. Joe has a longstanding commitment to children’s safety and also represents families navigating school bullying and cyberbullying, as well as situations involving abuse, harassment, and institutional negligence.
Joe’s civil litigation practice often intersects with family law. He represents clients in wrongful death, personal injury, invasion of privacy, and negligence claims against corporations and school districts. In 2024, he and his partner, Justin Gelfand, secured a $2.1 million jury verdict on behalf of a survivor of sexual battery—reflecting his commitment to holding wrongdoers accountable and pursuing justice for those who have suffered abuse.
In 2025, Joe was inducted as a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), one of the leading professional organizations dedicated exclusively to family law. AAML fellows are selected based on substantial experience, peer evaluation, and a demonstrated commitment to the highest standards of practice—particularly in complex divorce and custody matters where discretion, judgment, and credibility with the court are essential. Joe currently serves as Secretary of the Missouri Chapter of the AAML and remains actively involved in advancing professionalism in family law practice across Missouri. Fluent in Spanish, Joe is also a founding member and former President of the Hispanic Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis and has served on Missouri Bar committees, including the Diversity Committee and the Annual Meeting Planning Committee. Joe regularly presents at legal conferences across Missouri, including the Missouri Family Law Conference and the Missouri Bar Annual Meeting.
Joe has been recognized as a Super Lawyers selectee and listed in The Best Lawyers in America in 2025. He earned his J.D. from Washington University School of Law in St. Louis and his B.A. in Philosophy from Brigham Young University. He lives in St. Louis County with his wife, three children, and two dogs.
Awards and Recognitions
Each year since 2017, Joe has been selected to the Best Lawyers in America List by U.S. News & World Report. Nominees are selected on the basis of their legal experience, educational background, community outreach, successful verdicts, and peer evaluation. Joe was also named a 2023 Super Lawyer, which vets and selects the top 5% of attorneys by practice area in a peer-influenced and research-driven selection process. Since 2013, Joe has maintained a rating of 10.0 Superb by Avvo, a legal services forum dedicated to providing legal consumers with information about attorneys by area of practice.
