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Our Attorneys

Laude Hartrum IV

Associate
Providing Professional, Reputable and Approachable Legal Counsel.

About Laude Hartrum IV

Laude’s approach to family law is both comprehensive and client-centered. After graduating from the University of Michigan in 2017 and DePaul University College of Law in 2020, Laude was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 2021.

“I had the privilege of working with David Zwaska and Laude Hartrum, and I couldn’t be more pleased with the quality of legal representation I received. From the very beginning, David and Laude were incredibly attentive to all my needs. They communicated with me consistently, ensuring I was always informed and reassured during what could have been a very stressful time. Their responsiveness was remarkable — every question I had was answered in a timely manner, and they made sure to address any concerns I had thoroughly. Throughout the process, David and Laude made me feel confident that my best interests were their top priority. Thanks to their expertise and dedication, I was able to gain full custody of my children and avoid any maintenance obligations. I highly recommend David Zwaska and Laude Hartrum to anyone in need of excellent legal representation. Their professionalism, communication, and commitment to my case made all the difference.” – David M.

During law school, Laude worked as a law clerk at several family law firms and the Illinois Department of Child and Family Services. Additionally, Laude served as a judicial law clerk at the Circuit Court of Cook County Domestic Violence Division. Before joining the firm, Laude was an associate attorney at a small family law firm in Chicago where he worked on numerous family law matters involving complex financial issues and contentious custody disputes.

Laude understands the emotional toll that family law cases can take on clients and the importance of the case’s outcome to their family’s future. As such, Laude takes his responsibility seriously to advocate for the best interests of his clients with tact and civility. Laude focuses on resolving immediate issues efficiently and effectively while also protecting his client’s present and future interests.

Laude is currently a member of the Chicago Bar Association, the Illinois State Bar Association, the Cook County Bar Association, and the Alumni Association of the University of Michigan.

Laude lives in Chicago and, when he is not practicing law, enjoys spending time with family, sailing, or anything else related to the outdoors or water.

Education

  • Bachelors University of Michigan
  • Juris Doctorate DePaul University College of Law

Bar Admissions

  • Illinois
The Family Law Team at Merel Family Law
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