Chicago Divorce Lawyer
When You Need Tough Divorce Attorneys—Call Us
Divorce is more than just the legal dissolution of the marriage contract. It’s also a process fraught with emotions, from grief and loss to anger and frustration. Even when you’re relieved that your marriage is over, effecting a divorce settlement that is favorable to you may still prove difficult. Heightened emotions on both sides can make it difficult to focus on the practical details of ending a marriage. Our Chicago, IL divorce lawyer steps in to help you understand your rights to property and your children in a divorce and work tirelessly to protect your interests so you’re in the best possible position to move forward.
Merel Family Law offers complete representation in the divorce process. When you need advice during mediation, representation in court, legal protections placed to shield you from a violent or abusive spouse, or just someone to handle communication when you’re overwhelmed, we’re here for you. We take your worries seriously and approach your case with genuine compassion. But, we’re tough too. Our attorneys have decades of combined experience developing strong legal strategies to make sure our clients accomplish their goals in divorce.. From spousal support to child custody to division of marital assets, we fight for what you want. Please contact us today to get started.
How Our Divorce Attorneys Support You
When divorcing couples can’t come to an agreement on key issues, like who gets what property, who’s responsible for which debts, how shared custody will work, or whether alimony is deserved, a Cook County family law judge steps in to decide the matter. Family law courts follow the Illinois family law statutes for property and debt division and prioritize the best interests of the couple’s children when determining custody. We prepare a solid case if these matters end up in court, with persuasive arguments for your position based on evidence and documentation. We also pick apart your spouse’s position, with well-constructed, legally-sound arguments.
If you wish to settle your divorce decree in the courtroom, we represent you in mediation and negotiations. In mediation, you have more control over the outcome. We can help you stay focused on your goals and ensure that you don’t make emotional decisions that aren’t in your best interests. Sometimes, clients aren’t even aware of the options available to them until we help them explore all the possibilities. Our creative solutions can help you protect what matters most.
Your Partner And Advocate Throughout The Divorce Process
Divorce can leave you feeling isolated. With our Chicago divorce lawyer, you’re not alone. We’re ready to fight for your interests and protect you, even if you feel like your spouse is too powerful to fight. Our firm has extensive resources to ensure you get your fair due. For example, we may bring financial experts like forensic accountants to ensure transparency and fairness in dividing assets and debts.
When you work with Merel Family Law, your needs come first. Whether you’re simply exploring your options for divorce or you’ve already been served with divorce papers, our attorneys can help. Contact us today for a compassionate case evaluation.
Types Of Divorce Cases We Handle
Merel Family Law has been helping people with their divorce and other family law needs since 2009. We understand how stressful and overwhelming divorces are and do not want you to feel like you are alone during this difficult time. Our team is here to guide you through every step of the process with experience, compassion, and determination. Whether your situation is amicable or contentious, we offer clear solutions tailored to your unique needs. If you need a Chicago, IL divorce lawyer, we are here for you—ready to protect your rights and prioritize your future.
Contested Divorce
When spouses cannot agree on key issues such as property division, child custody, or alimony, a contested divorce becomes necessary. These cases often require litigation, and our legal team is prepared to advocate fiercely in court on your behalf.
Uncontested Divorce
Uncontested divorces occur when both parties agree on all major matters, allowing for a smoother and faster legal process. We help clients draft and file the necessary paperwork to finalize their divorce without unnecessary delays or complications.
High-Net-Worth Divorce
High-net-worth divorces involve complex financial considerations such as business interests, investment portfolios, multiple properties, and retirement accounts. We work with forensic accountants and valuation experts to ensure accurate asset division and financial protection.
Same-Sex Divorce
While the law treats same-sex divorce the same as any other, there can be unique issues related to parenting rights, asset division, or the length of the legal union. Our firm offers sensitive and knowledgeable representation for LGBTQ+ individuals navigating divorce.
Military Divorce
Divorces involving active-duty or retired military personnel come with unique challenges, including military pensions, deployment issues, and federal regulations. We understand military divorce laws and ensure your rights and benefits are safeguarded throughout the process.
Collaborative Divorce
Collaborative divorce allows couples to work together, with their attorneys, to resolve disputes outside of court. This process is ideal for those who seek a respectful and cooperative approach to ending their marriage while minimizing conflict and expense.
Divorce Involving Children
When children are involved, divorce becomes even more emotionally charged. As a Chicago divorce lawyer, we prioritize the best interests of your children in all matters related to custody, parenting time, support, and long-term family stability.
Divorce With Domestic Violence Issues
If your divorce involves domestic abuse, your safety and legal protection are our top priorities. We can help you obtain protective orders, secure custody, and take the necessary steps to ensure you are protected during and after the divorce process.
Silver Divorce (Over Age 50)
Divorce later in life often involves unique legal concerns, including retirement planning, long-term healthcare, and spousal support. We help clients navigate these issues with clarity, dignity, and an eye toward future financial stability.
International Divorce
When one or both spouses live abroad or hold international assets, jurisdictional challenges and complex property laws can arise. We offer strategic legal guidance to handle cross-border divorce matters efficiently and lawfully.
Let Us Help You Move Forward
Merel Family Law is 20 lawyers strong and when you hire our preeminent Chicago divorce lawyer, you are hiring a team of highly skilled and experienced professionals. Our firm operates modern, client‑centered headquarters that feature Zoom courtrooms, a children’s room, and a meditation space. If you need help with a divorce or other family matter, reach out to us today. Call or contact us online to schedule a private consultation—we’re ready when you are.
Types Of Divorce Cases We Handle
Even when it is for all of the right reasons, divorce is rarely easy. Merel Family Law understands this and our Chicago, IL divorce lawyer is here to discuss your situation and help you to decide what your next best steps should be. Every divorce is different, and we take the time to understand your goals, your concerns, and your priorities. With years of experience representing individuals and families across Illinois, we are committed to helping you move forward with confidence and clarity, no matter what type of divorce case you are facing.
Contested Divorce Cases
In a contested divorce, the spouses cannot agree on one or more major issues such as property division, child custody, or spousal support. These cases can take longer and may require court intervention to resolve. We represent our clients’ best interests through negotiation and, when necessary, litigation to reach a fair outcome that protects what matters most.
Uncontested Divorce Cases
An uncontested divorce occurs when both parties agree on all terms, including asset division, support, and parenting arrangements. This type of divorce is typically faster and less stressful, allowing couples to finalize their separation with minimal conflict. Our team prepares and reviews all legal documents to help the process move smoothly and efficiently.
High-Asset Divorce Cases
When significant assets are involved, such as real estate, investments, or business interests, divorce becomes more financially complex. Our attorneys handle high-asset divorce cases with a careful approach, ensuring all marital property is properly identified, valued, and divided. We work with financial professionals when needed to protect our clients’ wealth and long-term financial stability.
Divorce Cases Involving Children
In addition to the legal challenges that divorce poses when children are involved, the emotional toll on both the parents and children can be great. We prioritize protecting the best interests of the children while supporting parents through custody, parenting time, and child support decisions. If you are seeking guidance from a Chicago divorce lawyer, our team is committed to helping you establish a fair and workable parenting plan that supports your family’s needs.
Spousal Support And Maintenance Cases
Spousal support, also called maintenance, may be awarded when one spouse has a financial need and the other has the ability to pay. We represent clients seeking or opposing support and work to achieve outcomes that reflect fairness and financial realities. Our attorneys guide clients through the process of determining the appropriate amount and duration of support.
Divorce Cases Involving Business Ownership
When one or both spouses own a business, additional legal and financial considerations arise. We work closely with valuation professionals to determine the business’s worth and address how ownership, income, and assets should be divided. Our goal is to protect our clients’ financial interests while preserving the stability of their business operations whenever possible.
Post-Divorce Modifications
Life changes after divorce, and sometimes the original court orders need to be updated. We handle modification requests for custody, support, and other matters when there has been a substantial change in circumstances. Our firm helps clients adjust agreements in a way that reflects their current realities while protecting their rights.
Moving Forward With Support And Experience
If you are in the unfortunate situation of needing a Chicago divorce lawyer, the dedicated team at Merel Family Law has helped over 5,500 clients with their family law needs and we are here for you. We have 24/7 live answering. Reach out to us any time you are in need of help with a family law matter.
