With 19 years of diverse legal experience, Tracy L. Schimelfenig is a seasoned attorney dedicated to delivering high-quality, effective legal solutions. Known for her leadership, integrity, and sound judgment, she excels at navigating complex legal matters and advising clients across a wide spectrum of industries, including business, real estate, nonprofit, and sports.

As the founder and Managing Attorney of Schimelfenig Legal, Tracy plays a pivotal role in managing sophisticated legal issues, ranging from business transactions and corporate governance to real estate, sports, nonprofit compliance, and risk management. She is highly skilled in contract negotiation and general business operations, offering tailored legal strategies that align with her clients’ unique needs. Her extensive expertise allows her to serve as fractional general counsel, providing flexible, strategic legal support on an as-needed basis—an invaluable resource for businesses seeking expert guidance without full-time counsel.

Tracy’s corporate and nonprofit experience includes previously serving as Chief Legal Officer and Compliance Officer at a multi-million-dollar nonprofit organization, where she played a pivotal role in guiding high-stakes transactions, real estate development projects, regulatory compliance initiatives and board governance. She combines a strong background in litigation and dispute resolution with practical experience in business transactions. Having worked extensively on legal disputes in state and federal courts on a broad array of matters, including business disputes, intellectual property, real estate conflicts, probate, and complex commercial litigation, Tracy understands how problems can arise and uses that insight to help clients avoid issues before they happen. This experience helps her write clear contracts and negotiate deals that protect clients’ interests.

Beyond her legal practice, Tracy is deeply committed to her community and has served on numerous nonprofit boards, lending her expertise to organizations focused on fostering positive social change. A former college basketball player with a passion for the business of sports, Tracy brings a distinctive perspective to her legal practice. Her leadership roles with organizations such as the Premier Ultimate League, Lawyers Club of San Diego, California Women Lawyers, She’s Got Time, Sports Lawyers Association, and Women in Sports & Events demonstrate her commitment to supporting the advancement and empowerment of women and underrepresented groups within the legal and sports industries. 

Tracy holds a Juris Doctor from California Western School of Law, a Master of Science in Sport Administration from Arkansas State University, and a Bachelor’s degree in English from Marywood University. She also completed the Sports Business Classroom’s Business of Basketball program to further enhance her expertise in sports business operations.

Whether negotiating contracts, advising on strategic business decisions, or representing clients in dispute resolution, Tracy approaches every challenge with a solutions-oriented mindset, unwavering ethics, and a steadfast commitment to achieving the best outcomes. In the boardroom, courtroom, or community, she consistently embodies excellence, professionalism, and dedication. Her clients value her integrity, approachability, and dedication to delivering legal services with the highest level of excellence. 

— LinkedIn