Practice Areas

Chicago and Cook County Family Law

At the Katz Law Office, Ltd., we focus on the following aspects of family law:

Divorce

During your first meeting at our office, we will secure the necessary information through a divorce intake form tailored specifically to Illinois divorce law. From there, we represent you in negotiations and trial if necessary.

Mediation

At the Katz Law Office, Ltd., we encourage our clients to resolve family law matters through mediation, but will always remind them of their right to litigate. Sometimes, the courtroom can lead to the best resolution.

Child Custody

The Illinois Supreme Court has mandated that all child custody must go through non-binding mediation. If resolution is not found there, we can take the matter to court. Our goal is to resolve the disputes without courtroom litigation and with the best interest of your children in mind.

Visitation

The non-custodial parent is entitled to substantial child visitation rights. The courts focus on the best interests of the child, which usually means having maximum interaction with both parents. We share that philosophy. Please know that grandparents have rights as well based on Illinois visitation statutes.

Child Support / Interstate Child Support

Child support has strict guidelines that must be followed in Illinois. Lump sums are allowed sometimes as are modifications based on a significant change in circumstance, such as a change or loss of a job.

Paternity / Parentage

Paternity can be determined through voluntary acknowledgement or a DNA test ordered by a Parentage Court. Unwed mothers need it to secure support and unmarried fathers request a test if they want to have custody or visitation of their child.

Property Division

While Illinois law does not specify that marital assets must be split 50/50, most judges go in that direction. Anything acquired prior to the marriage that is co-mingled becomes marital property. Your attorney will assist in the division of property and other assets, such as division of retirement accounts.

Prenuptial Agreements

Protecting your individual assets when entering into a marriage is of the utmost importance. Our firm is dedicated to helping brides- and grooms-to-be understand their options in seeking asset protection through a prenuptial agreement.

Domestic Violence

The Illinois Domestic Violence Act of 1986 provides that any abused party may petition the court for an order of protection. If you are mentally and/or physically abused, you are entitled to this type of order. An Order of Protection may be obtained if the opposing party has used the children as a means to manipulate or exploit the other.

Child Adoption

At our firm, we guide our clients throughout the entire adoption process. We have been successful in uniting stepparents and stepchildren and grandparents and their grandchildren.

Wills and Trusts

We understand the importance of planning for your future and the unknown. Our firm strives to help clients create comprehensive wills, trusts, and other estate planning documents that protect their assets and legacies for future generations.

The attorneys at our firm pride themselves on their attention, energy, and professionalism. For more information or to schedule a free consultation with a lawyer, please contact us.