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24 May, 2018 by Amanda
Brett was fantastic through the entire process of my divorce. He worked with me to keep fees reasonable. He let me know when it was worth the effort to fight and when it would not be beneficial in the long run. He also explained the process as we went along, which made it less overwhelming. If I ever had a friend in this situation, I would recommend him in a heartbeat.
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22 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Brett has a very keen strategic and legal mind which resulted in a positive outcome for me. Beyond mitigating my risk, Brett was also able to provide me with a few emotional victories along the way using his excellent negotiation skills.
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02 Mar, 2018 by Jim
Brett was proactive and professional from beginning to end. He made the best use of the time required to look at every angle of my divorce and made sure to keep me informed on where the process was and what next steps were ahead. He was flexible with location and time, and often times we were able to handle most details via phone. Brett is an excellent choice if you're looking for a lawyer who you can easily talk to and trust to help you make informed decisions.
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30 Aug, 2019 by Kelly
I highly recommend Valerie to anyone in need of a family law attorney. She is not only incredibly knowledgable, she is fierce and confident, yet kind, patient, and understanding. She knows what she is doing and never for one second did I feel worried while my case was in her hands. I interviewed several family law attorneys, and will continue to utilize her for any legal needs pertaining to my divorce/custody issues. We went on a 21 month journey together and she took care of me the entire way through. Thanks again Val,
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11 Apr, 2018 by Pam
Valerie jumped in to help me with my divorce after I previous attorney did not do the job correctly. She corrected many things and was extremely professional, kind and very easy to work with. When she said she would call she did. If she was late she had someone call to tell me. When I spoke with her she was patient and never rushed me. She is smart as a whip and knows everything there is to know about divorce. She also knows how to explain it to you so you understand the legal language. She is also extremely detailed and does not leave out anything. I can't say enough about her.
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12 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
I started working with Val in the later part of a custody disagreement; up until then I had worked primarily with her partner. I found her to be an exceptional communicator, strategic, and appreciated that she came prepared for any situation. Extremely intelligent, honest, and caring. Rare and redeeming qualities in an attorney.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Kristy
Michone is extremely nice and offers an in depth look at what the process will be like. She’s up front, honest, and above all- communicative. In my situation, there was a lot of back and forth and she always went the extra mile to make sure we were in contact.
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13 Dec, 2019 by Inna
Michone is very professional and very knowledgeable attorney.She was hired twice by me and my family members.She fights for you as hard as she can. Tiffany and Karen are also excellent. I definitely recommend her and her firm!!!
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25 Oct, 2018 by Catherine
I can't say enough about her or thank her enough for all she has done. She is extremely intelligent, professional, honest with great integrity, calming while in an intense situation. When going through an emotional situation such as divorce and or child custody, it's Michone Riewer you want to represent you.
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20 Aug, 2019 by Brian
Trying to work with a bad judge in Cook County to address dangerous parenting behaviors from my wife's ex-husband, Michael was professional but tough. We prevailed and my step-children are much better off as a result.
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19 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
I met Mr. Sabath today for a consultation of my case. He was honest and straightforward. I liked how he quickly he understood my case and gave great suggestions. I highly recommend this lawyer. He knows what he is doing.
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06 Sep, 2018 by Mark newman
Tremendous alimony reduction on the first go around. The second time resulted in a finalization of any future alimony payments.
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09 Dec, 2021 by Lindsey
I was going through the most difficult time of my life. I hired Tiffany to work through a difficult divorce. She was well organized and prepared for my case. She walked me through every step and gave me great advice throughout the way. Following the completion of my divorce, she continues to be helpful with proper guidance and recommendations. I couldn't do it without her.
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09 Dec, 2021 by Colleen
I have been working with Tiffany since 2014, pre-decree and now post-decree. She is supportive, responsive and most-importantly, she reminds me remain calm under extremely stressful conditions. I trust her advice because I know in the end that she is looking out for me and my children. In the courtroom, she is highly respected by her peers. I would recommend her to anyone looking for a family law attorney, and I am very lucky to have her as mine.
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02 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Tiffany was extraordinarily helpful, and honest with her counsel regarding my very contentious divorce and post-divorce. She guided me through a very difficult time, providing me with information and advice to get me and my family on the other side. At times, it was communication I did not want to hear, but she kindly, compassionately and carefully shared with me information and advice. I am very grateful she was in my corner. I cannot recommend her enough as a divorce/family attorney.
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16 Jan, 2013 by Robert
Bridget is the best in the business! Recently she handled my grandmothers will and trust. my grandmother is 91 years old, so it was not an easy case. Bridget came to the house, assess the situation, and was very straightforward honest and knowledgeable. Best of all her heart is bigger than her house! And after it was all said and done, The follow-up was amazing. Stayed in constant contact with me and my grandmother throughout the whole process.
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01 Nov, 2010 by Mary jane
Bridget Walsh Hutchen has represented my family and me several times, always with a positive outcome. She evidences skill, empathy, knowledge, and perseverance. I was cited for speeding in a school zone, an offense that could have resulted in the loss of my license for six months. Bridget was effective in getting my offense reduced to just speeding so that I could receive court supervision. She seemed to be well known to court officials who treated her with great respect. On another occasion Bridget represented my family after painters contaminated our home with lead dust forcing us to vacate our home for two months and incur huge cleaning expenses. She helped us to deal with the painters' insurance company who initially seemed sympathetic. When they started to ignore us, she kept at them. Finally, she helped us decide when it was time to file suit. They paid us the thousands we deserved immediately. If Bridget had not effectively represented us, I don't think we would have seen a nickel. My husband is also a lawyer, and he joins me in highly recommending Bridget Walsh Hutchen.
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07 Apr, 2015 by Luke
Sara Roberts provided outstanding work during my divorce filing. From the initial phone conversation and meeting, all the way through the actual court appearance and beyond, Sara was extremely organized, professional and knew exactly what needed to be done. She was very patient with me in answering any questions I had and responded to emails and phone calls promptly. She was very knowledgeable about the law and offered excellent advice when I asked for assistance. I was most impressed during the court appearance. She was very thorough in explaining exactly what to expect, and had everything that needed to be signed readily available. During court, she was extremely competent in working with the judge to make sure the proceedings went smoothly. Sara was also very kind and considerate to me. This was the most difficult time of my life, yet she took the time to provide explanations on what was occuring, and I always felt that no question was too small, no query to insignificant for me to ask. I will certainly contact Sara should the need arise for me to obtain legal counsel in the future and I highly recommend her to anyone who may need legal assistance.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Jonathan katz
If you think this is an office, it's not.
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08 Mar, 2023 by Andrea mondello
Evan is the best! In addition to answering many questions that I had related to my online business, Evan and team obtained the trademark for my business. They were very helpful in answering all my questions and keeping me up to date along the way and notified me timely once it was finalized.Would highly recommend Redan& Des Jardins for any related service.
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19 Dec, 2022 by Twyla harris
Evan is very knowledgeable, friendly and did not try talking so much legal jargon that I would be confused as to what we were discussing. He took his time and walked me through processes and made sure I understood the reasons behind the necessary actions. I look forward to working with him again!
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26 Sep, 2024 by Eric mirshak
I had an extremely complex and high conflict custody battle, like over three years complex, hired multiple lawyers, it was frustrating and aggravating, i wish i retained this firm from the beginning, upon retaining this firm there was fast movement, and they delivered what they promised, the combo of Ms Steiner and Ms Howeth is quite the impressive team, knowledgeable, effective, honest, and reasonably priced. i would highly recommend them and this firm.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Eileen page
Kristin and team guided me through a very contentious divorce with expertise and compassion. Kristin has the very rare ability to remember every detail and also be a big-picture, strategic thinker at the same time. She is very astute at simplifying all of the complex divorce terms and processes, and gives several options along with her recommendation - so I felt both informed and empowered to make the best decisions for my children and myself. She operates with integrity and was an incredible, trustworthy advocate through the most emotional and turbulent time of my life thus far. I highly recommend her! Other team members like Kara, Alana and Nicole were responsive, diligent and helpful.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Danielle w
Katherine Hatch is amazing! I am so happy I was referred to her! She is a very knowledgeable and talented attorney. Her closing statement alone was worth every penny. I highly recommend her!
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26 Sep, 2024 by Eric mirshak
I had an extremely complex and high conflict custody battle, like over three years complex, hired multiple lawyers, it was frustrating and aggravating, i wish i retained this firm from the beginning, upon retaining this firm there was fast movement, and they delivered what they promised, the combo of Ms Steiner and Ms Howeth is quite the impressive team, knowledgeable, effective, honest, and reasonably priced. i would highly recommend them and this firm.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Eileen page
Kristin and team guided me through a very contentious divorce with expertise and compassion. Kristin has the very rare ability to remember every detail and also be a big-picture, strategic thinker at the same time. She is very astute at simplifying all of the complex divorce terms and processes, and gives several options along with her recommendation - so I felt both informed and empowered to make the best decisions for my children and myself. She operates with integrity and was an incredible, trustworthy advocate through the most emotional and turbulent time of my life thus far. I highly recommend her! Other team members like Kara, Alana and Nicole were responsive, diligent and helpful.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Danielle w
Katherine Hatch is amazing! I am so happy I was referred to her! She is a very knowledgeable and talented attorney. Her closing statement alone was worth every penny. I highly recommend her!
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27 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired Megan services to do the right and her office staff weren’t not profesional they turned in documents into the Court late causing delays. Megan behaviors towards the my case were draconian and just a negative experience. Do not pay a dollar to this firm, there are much better lawyers for your money. Beware!
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07 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
Megan assisted me in closing out the final commitments in a divorce proceeding. She used her knowledge of the court and understanding of the personalities involved to bring about a successful conclusion. She kept me well-informed of my options and clearly explained the relevant law and potential impact of my choices. Her professionalism and open personality allow her to work well with opposing counsel and others involved in the process. She made the process easier for me and I would highly recommend her for family law services.
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07 Oct, 2016 by Allison
I turned to Megan to protect and help me with my complicated divorce and custody proceedings in 2013. Her responsiveness, knowledge and authenticity during a complex divorce case kept me stable and successful. She was always engaged when I needed legal representation as well as emotional support during a tough time. She was fair and empatheic with billing, which I appreciated. I trust Megan and I highly recommend her.
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19 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Mary Clark is an articulate, powerful, and highly successful divorce attorney in Lake County. I chose Mary to represent me because I trusted her and felt she really had everyone's best intersests at heart, especially my kids. While divorces can be quite emotional, Mary continued to set realistic expectations throughout the process and worked diligently toward a fair outcome. Partnership with Mary was key to finishing our proceedings in under a year. While there is no winner in any divorce, Mary Clark is definitely a winning attorney and someone I would highly recommend.
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18 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
When you don't know what to expect the divorce process can be emotionally challenging, demanding and stressful. You need a lawyer that will guide you through the process with your best interests in mind. Mary Clark and team did just that for me. I expected and appreciated the value associated with the personalized attention given to my case. Every case is different, there are no cookie-cutter answers in divorce. Mary worked to protect the things that were most important to me! I mattered and was not just another statistic. A divorce attorney’s job is to advocate for their client during the most difficult time in a person’s life. I am thankful that I found Mary as she is a Champion who will do the job the way it should be done.
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16 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
She is the master of protraction and outrageous charges. She sells herself very well, but she is not worth the money. More importantly you should know that she didn't communicate to me what was offered from the other side. This protracted the process, resulting in more money in her pocket!!
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28 Dec, 2023 by Melis
Kurt is my ex wife’s attorney. He is good to have as an opposing lawyer. He attended college at Saint Mary's University of Minnesota is ranked #296 out of 439 National Universities. And law school at Kent in Chicago ranked 97th out of 200 in country. If you like animals avoid. Has prior legal issues for abusing geese.
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What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You

A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.

Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.

When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?

Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:

  • Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
  • Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
  • Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
  • Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
  • Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
  • Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
  • Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.

Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.

What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?

A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:

  • Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
  • Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
  • Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
  • Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
  • Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
  • Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
  • Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.

How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?

Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:

  • Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
  • Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
  • Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.

The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.

How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:

  • Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
  • Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
  • Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
  • Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.

Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.

Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer

Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:

  1. What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption.
  2. How will you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved.
  3. What are the possible outcomes of my case?
    An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case.
  4. What is your approach to resolving disputes?
    Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals.
  5. How long do you expect my case to take?
    While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases.
  6. Who will be handling my case?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.

How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer

To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:

  • Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
  • Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
  • Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
  • Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
  • List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
  • Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
  • Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.

Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.

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