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Merel Family Law: Protect Your Interests with a Specialized LGBTQ+ Divorce Lawyer

Divorce is hard enough. You deserve a respected and honest LGBTQ+ divorce lawyer who deeply understands your needs. Ending your marriage or civil union is never an easy decision, and for LGBTQ+ couples, there can be added layers of complexity.

We get it: deciding to end your marriage or civil union is an emotionally taxing process. With the complexities of the legal system, it can feel even more overwhelming. Luckily, you don’t have to do it alone.

For over two decades, our family law attorneys have helped countless families navigate the divorce process, in and out of the courtroom. We take pride in balancing compassionate support with perceptive legal expertise to achieve the best possible outcome.

We’d like to do the same for you.

Why Trust Merel Family Law to Handle My Divorce?

We Don’t Believe in Ordinary

Our clients are the type of people who demand and deserve world-class legal representation, and they won’t settle for anything less. So, we do our homework, stay on top of changes and emergent issues, prepare for every scenario, collaborate when it makes sense and fight like hell when it doesn’t.

We’ve Worked Hard to Earn Our Reputation

We work just as hard to keep it. Our team of seasoned attorneys has worked diligently to help earn the respect of our colleagues, clients, judges, court systems and community, and we intend to keep it that way. In other words, our reputation speaks for itself.

We believe in “Winning” as painlessly as possible

All divorces are unique, and while we prefer to approach our clients’ cases in a spirit of collaboration and negotiation, we are also not afraid to “take the gloves off” when needed. In other words, our clients’ answer to the question, “What does winning look like to you?” informs our strategies, tactics and tone.

We’ll Help You Avoid Unnecessary Litigation

You’ll have peace of mind knowing we will never push you into a lengthy, costly and unnecessary court trial. However, we will use all legal remedies to protect your rights.

You’ll Receive Seasoned Support

Our seasoned LGBTQ+ divorce lawyers have specific experience in cases involving women, LGBTQIA+ couples, fathers, high-net-worth individuals, dissolution of long-term marriages, spouses who own businesses, appeals and more. We’ll ensure you’re represented by an experienced queer and same-sex divorce attorney who understands and respects your situation, the law, and how best to work through your unique challenges.

You Can Reach Us Easily

Unlike other law firms, we know how important it is to manage our client’s expectations and be available to answer their questions and concerns outside of regular business hours. You can contact us by phone, text, or email around the clock.

Meetings With Your Attorney Are Easy and Convenient

Schedule an appointment at any one of our three in-person offices in Chicago, Hinsdale and Highland Park, or conduct some or all of your divorce proceedings online via Zoom. In some instances, an in-court appearance may be required by the judge. If so, you’ll typically be given at least 30 days advance notice.

Additional Services in Divorce & LGBTQ+ Law

Support for All of Your LGBTQ+ Family Law Needs

LGBTQ+ family law is a specialized field of law that focuses on the challenges and unique needs that may arise for the LGBTQ+ community. Our passionate team of LGBTQ+ family lawyers has decades of experience working directly with queer and same-sex families in second-parent adoption, legal assistance for orders of protection, navigating the intricacies of LGBTQ+ divorces, and resolving custody disputes. No matter the scenario, our goal is to safeguard your rights while offering you compassion and counsel every step of the way.

Second-Parent Adoption for Queer and Same-sex Families

Our team of second-parent adoption attorneys fight to protect your LGBTQ+ adoption rights when taking legal guardianship of a child. They also ensure that the first parent maintains their rights at the same time, especially in cases involving assisted reproductive technology to create their family. Unmarried same-sex and queer couples will also need specific legal counsel when they look to adopt. Our expert LGBTQ+ adoption attorneys will guide you through the process and help explain your rights as an adoptive parent, which usually mirrors the rights of biological parents in custody and visitation matters.

Secure Your Safety with Orders of Protection

Domestic violence is an unfortunate reality for many people, whether they are in same-sex or opposite-sex relationships. However, there are additional threats for the LGBTQ+ community, such as challenges tied to their sexual orientation, dual discrimination, insufficient support services, and misconceptions rooted in stereotypes. Our team of dedicated LGBTQ+ family lawyers is devoted to keeping their clients safe and informed through legal advice and encouragement. You deserve peace and justice in your life.

Your Leading Experts in High-Asset Divorce

High-asset divorce automatically becomes more complex. That’s why you need seasoned legal professionals on your side who regularly work with cases containing large assets, like real estate, investments and business interests. Our divorce attorneys will fight for your best interests to protect your property ownership, ensure equitable distribution and determine appropriate spousal maintenance. Don’t risk losing your resources; let our expert divorce lawyers handle everything on your behalf.

Resolve LGBTQ+ Custody Disputes

Despite the recognition of same-sex marriage in Illinois since 2013, the laws surrounding same-sex child custody are still complex. It is essential to collaborate with a seasoned custody attorney to find a favorable outcome that is best for your child. Our primary concern is maintaining the best interests of the children involved in these highly emotional legal proceedings. We will work diligently to protect your LGBTQ+ adoption and parental rights until a fair resolution is achieved.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I file for an LGBTQ+ divorce in Illinois?

In Illinois, queer and same-sex couples file for divorce like any other couple. Since Illinois is a no-fault state, the spouse who files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage only needs to cite irreconcilable differences as a reason for divorce. You must also meet the 90-day residency requirement and file for divorce in the county where you live.

What unique challenges can I expect in an LGBTQ+ divorce?

While the process is generally similar to divorcing heterosexual couples, some unique challenges may arise. Issues can occur around child custody if one partner is not the biological parent and hasn’t legally adopted the child. The court may hesitate to award visitation or custody rights in such cases. Property division can also be a contentious issue, especially for couples who have commingled assets and property in a marriage-like arrangement before same-sex marriage was legalized in Illinois in 2013.

How long does an LGBTQ+ divorce take?

Unfortunately, there is not a clear and concise answer. Divorce can be over and done in a week or go on for many years. It all depends on the situation at hand. Factors such as child custody issues, business valuation, unreasonable lawyers or other involved parties, or complex finances can make the process last longer.

I was served with divorce papers. Now what?

Time is of the essence in this situation. As the Respondent in an Illinois divorce, you will have 30 days to file an Answer to the petition and file your Appearance. It is in your best interest to hire an experienced queer and same-sex divorce attorney. They will handle all court filings, communicate with the opposing counsel, collect your financial information, and advise you on the appropriate steps to take as your case proceeds.

What documents do I need to start the legal process?
  • Recent paystubs and W-2s
  • Recent utility bills
  • Recent mortgage statements
  • Statement for any ongoing loans
  • Secured debts
  • Medical and health insurance bills
  • Bank, savings, and investment statements
  • Retirement and 401(k) information
  • Life insurance policies
  • Three or more years of tax returns
  • Detailed list of common child-related expenses
  • Approximate monthly family budget
How can I preserve my privacy in an LGBTQ+ divorce?
  • Get a P.O. Box
  • Change your passwords
  • Lock down your social media accounts
  • Open a private financial account
Will I only have one lawyer working on my case?

In every case, it takes a village. We have a full-service staff and a large team of attorneys to help with your situation. We use a variety of attorneys, both partners and associates alike, to resolve your case and keep costs down.

Do I need a lawyer for an LGBTQ+ divorce in Chicago?

While it is technically possible to represent yourself in a divorce case in Chicago, it’s not always the best course of action. Divorce is a complex legal process, and the stakes can be high. Having a seasoned queer and same-sex divorce attorney on your side can significantly influence the outcome of your case in your favor.

How much will an LGBTQ+ divorce cost me?

This is a million-dollar question, but it depends on your case. Less contentious cases will incur fewer fees, and more complex cases that need more work or litigation from attorneys and staff will incur more. Retainers vary based on the type and scope of your case.

What is a retainer, and how does it work?

A retainer is an initial deposit required by attorneys and other professionals to commence representation. The retainer covers fees (billed based on hourly rates) and expenses. If the retainer is used up, the client will be responsible for any additional fees incurred beyond the retainer. If the case is finalized and a portion of the retainer is unused, that portion will be refunded back to the client.

Jonathan Merel

Written By Jonathan Merel

Founder and Managing Principal

Jonathan Merel is an experienced attorney who advocates for his clients in all divorce and family law proceedings, including settlement negotiations and trials. Jonathan founded Merel Family Law in early 2009 after working for many years at another family law firm in Chicago.