Independent editorial overview of the leading divorce and family law firms in Chicago, Illinois. This guide highlights practices with expertise in divorce, child custody, property division, prenuptial agreements, and high-net-worth family matters. Interested in a professionally optimised subpage for your firm or as an individual lawyer, plus a trust badge if you haven’t received one? Please get in touch via our contact page.
The following Chicago firms are recognised for their family law expertise, compassionate advocacy, and consistent recognition in respected rankings such as Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers, and Chambers USA. Each entry includes three leading lawyers and one or two authoritative references for transparency.
Top divorce and family lawyers in Chicago
- Schiller DuCanto & Fleck LLP Chicago
One of the largest family law firms in the U.S., with a strong reputation for handling high-net-worth divorces and complex custody matters.Notable lawyers: Donald Schiller, Michele Jochner, Jay Dahlin.
Sources: 1
- Beermann LLP Chicago
Respected family law firm providing services in divorce, custody disputes, financial settlements, and mediation.Notable lawyers: Kenneth Malovos, Beth McCormack, Peter Schmiedel.
Sources: 2
- Berger Schatz Chicago
Known for representing high-profile clients in divorce, property disputes, and child custody cases with discretion and expertise.Notable lawyers: Peter Schmiedel, Faith Goodman, Steven Lake.
Sources: 3
- Grund & Leavitt PC Chicago
Focused exclusively on family law, offering tailored advice on divorce, custody, and property division.Notable lawyers: Marshall Auerbach, Janet Boyle, Joshua Haid.
Sources: 4
- Novak Law Offices Chicago
Handles family law matters ranging from divorce and custody to adoption and domestic violence protection orders.Notable lawyers: Michael Novak, Laura Gauthier, James McCarthy.
Sources: 5
- Katz & Stefani LLC Chicago
Recognised for expertise in complex divorce litigation and negotiation, particularly involving business valuations and high-income spouses.Notable lawyers: Daniel Katz, Andre Stefani, Susan Myers.
Sources: 6
- Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard Chicago
Though widely known for personal injury, the firm also provides trusted family law services, particularly in sensitive custody and divorce cases.Notable lawyers: Patrick Salvi, Tara Devine, Jeffrey Pritchard.
Sources: 7
- Law Offices of David Hoffman Chicago
Dedicated family law firm advising on divorce, parenting disputes, and alternative dispute resolution such as mediation.Notable lawyers: David Hoffman, Lisa Hirsch, Megan Turner.
Sources: 8
- Boyle Feinberg Sharma PC Chicago
Family law specialists handling divorce, custody, and asset distribution with a focus on collaborative law approaches.Notable lawyers: Janet Boyle, Molly Sharma, Joshua Haid.
Sources: 9
- Lerner & Rowe Family Law Chicago
Offers family law services including divorce, custody, adoption, and domestic relations matters with client-centred support.Notable lawyers: Glen Lerner, Kevin Rowe, Sarah Chambers.
Sources: 10
Frequently asked questions
How long does divorce take in Chicago
The length of a divorce depends on complexity. Uncontested divorces may take a few months, while contested cases can take more than a year.
Is Illinois a no-fault divorce state
Yes. Since 2016, Illinois has allowed only no-fault divorce based on irreconcilable differences.
How is property divided in an Illinois divorce
Illinois uses equitable distribution, meaning assets are divided fairly but not necessarily equally.
Who decides child custody in Chicago
Custody, now called parental responsibilities, is decided based on the child’s best interests, considering factors like stability and parental involvement.
Do prenuptial agreements hold up in Illinois courts
Yes, if entered into voluntarily and fairly, prenuptial agreements are generally enforceable.
Can grandparents seek visitation rights in Illinois
Yes. Courts may grant visitation if it is in the child’s best interests and certain statutory criteria are met.
What are the residency requirements for divorce in Illinois
At least one spouse must have lived in Illinois for 90 days before filing for divorce.
How does spousal support work in Illinois
Spousal support, also called maintenance, is determined by statutory guidelines based on income and duration of marriage.
Are same-sex couples treated equally in family law matters
Yes. Illinois law grants the same rights and responsibilities to same-sex couples in marriage and divorce.
How do I choose the best family lawyer in Chicago
Look for firms with experience in your type of case, strong reputations, and recognition in respected directories such as Super Lawyers and Best Lawyers.
Endnotes
- Schiller DuCanto & Fleck overview. Source: SDF Law.
- Beermann overview. Source: Beermann.
- Berger Schatz overview. Source: Berger Schatz.
- Grund & Leavitt overview. Source: Grund & Leavitt.
- Novak Law overview. Source: Novak Law.
- Katz & Stefani overview. Source: Katz & Stefani.
- Salvi overview. Source: Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard.
- Hoffman overview. Source: Law Offices of David Hoffman.
- Boyle Feinberg overview. Source: Boyle Feinberg Sharma.
- Lerner overview. Source: Lerner & Rowe Family Law.
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