About Matthew A. Katz

Matthew A. Katz, Esq., MSW, MBA is a Chicago-based divorce and family law attorney whose multidisciplinary background uniquely blends law, psychology, business, and education. With over two decades of experience serving the diverse communities of Chicago and beyond, Matthew offers a deeply human and strategic approach to resolving complex family law matters.

Raised in Evanston, Illinois, Matthew earned his Bachelor’s in Teaching of Social Studies from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in 1997. He taught high school in Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood for seven years before graduating cum laude from DePaul University College of Law in 2003. Fluent in Spanish, he built his early law career serving the very communities he once taught, combining advocacy, empathy, and a commitment to justice.

Legal Career

In 2004, Matthew founded Katz Law Offices, P.C. — a firm that grew to include sixty staff across six offices in Chicago and Mexico City. Under his leadership, the firm successfully handled thousands of cases in family law, criminal defense, and immigration, earning a reputation for excellence, integrity, and community impact. From divorce and custody cases to property division and orders of protection, Matthew has become a trusted advocate for families navigating life’s most challenging transitions.

Education & Advanced Credentials

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) – DePaul University College of Law, cum laude (2003)
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) – University of Chicago Booth School of Business
• Master of Social Work (MSW)
• Master of Divinity (M.Div.)
• Bachelor of Arts (Teaching of Social Studies) – University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (1997)

Matthew is currently completing two Ph.D. dissertations and maintains an active psychotherapy practice alongside his legal work — a rare combination that gives him unparalleled insight into the emotional and interpersonal dynamics that underpin family law disputes.

Practice Areas

• Divorce & Legal Separation
• Child Custody & Visitation
• Child Support & Spousal Maintenance
• Orders of Protection
• Property Division
• Parentage & Paternity Cases

Philosophy & Approach

Matthew believes that law and empathy are not mutually exclusive. His background in education, mental health, and theology allows him to approach every case with intellectual depth and emotional intelligence. He integrates strategic legal advocacy with compassionate guidance, ensuring clients feel both protected and understood throughout their legal journey. His mission is to empower individuals and families to move forward with dignity, clarity, and renewed confidence.

Community & Legacy

Having built his first firm in the same Chicago neighborhood where he once taught, Matthew’s career reflects a lifelong dedication to serving the community. He continues to lead by example — as a lawyer, educator, and healer — offering clients not just legal representation, but holistic support through change.

Fantastic Lawyers Editorial

“A rare blend of intellect, empathy, and leadership, Matthew A. Katz stands at the intersection of law and humanity. As a Chicago divorce lawyer, psychotherapist, and educator, he redefines advocacy — combining legal strategy with emotional insight to help clients achieve balance, fairness, and peace of mind.”