Jonathan D. Steele

Family Law Expertise with a Digital Edge

With over a decade of experience, I’m a family law attorney dedicated to resolving complex and high-stakes cases across Illinois and beyond. I have successfully litigated matters involving intricate estates, high-conflict custody, and challenging valuation disputes. My experience includes representing clients in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, the Illinois Appellate Court, and the Illinois Supreme Court, as well as handling cases pro hac vice in neighboring states. I have tried numerous cases on critical issues such as stalking no contact orders, dissipation claims, and maintenance modifications. Throughout my practice, I bring a profound commitment to securing both the financial and emotional well-being of my clients and their families.

In cases where sensitive information and assets—financial, business, digital—and, most importantly, children’s well-being are at risk, I don’t just safeguard legal rights; I protect what matters most. My career in family law began in 2001 at Nadler, Pritikin & Mirabelli, where I gained invaluable hands-on experience in high school and college. This foundation led to my role as a partner at Beermann, where I leverage both tactical and technical expertise to advance client interests in every case.

Legal Command with a Technical Prowess

My combination of family law and cybersecurity expertise offers clients an uncommon advantage in high-stakes cases. With certifications like Google Cybersecurity, CompTIA Security+, and Cisco Ethical Hacker, I’m equipped to address complex privacy issues, secure data against digital threats, and uncover hidden assets or evidence of adultery and fraud—key factors in sensitive divorce proceedings.

Beyond technical expertise, I bring deep experience in Illinois family law, reinforced by proficiency with the rules of evidence and the Code of Civil Procedure. Having conducted over 100 depositions, including those of expert witnesses, I approach each case with a strategic advantage that few attorneys can offer. This unique blend of legal and technical skill gives my clients comprehensive security in and out of the courtroom, especially when financial or personal misconduct is at play.

Community and Professional Involvement

I'm committed to giving back, serving as a volunteer with Family Rescue and Sarah's Inn—organizations that provide critical support, advocacy, and resources to survivors of domestic violence and lead prevention efforts within our communities.

I also contribute to legal education as a presenter for the Illinois Institute for Continuing Legal Education (IICLE) and work with JUF Community Legal Services. Additionally, I volunteer for the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) Cooperating Attorneys Program, providing pro bono legal assistance on privacy issues to individuals with limited financial means.

Degrees

• Juris Doctor (J.D.), The John Marshall Law School: With a focus on family law and litigation, providing a strong foundation in legal principles and advocacy.
• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Indiana University: With a concentration in Political Science, equipping me with analytical skills essential to my legal and cybersecurity practice.

Awards

• Rising Star, Illinois Super Lawyers: An elite distinction awarded to less than 2.5% of attorneys under 40 in Illinois, recognizing my commitment to excellence and peer recognition in the legal community.
• Emerging Lawyer, Leading Lawyers: Awarded to fewer than 2% of Illinois attorneys, this honor reflects my dedication and skill as recognized by my peers and legal leaders.
• Top 10 Lawyers Under 40, American Institute of Family Law Attorneys: A prestigious ranking that highlights my proficiency and dedication to advancing family law with exceptional advocacy and insight.
• Top 10 Family Law Attorneys Under 40, National Academy of Family Law Attorneys: This honor recognizes my commitment to high standards in family law and my dedication to providing exceptional support for clients in sensitive legal matters.

Certifications

• Certified Financial Litigator: Recognized by the American Academy of Certified Financial Litigators, this designation underscores my expertise in handling complex financial issues in family law, including asset valuation, income assessment, and financial investigations.
• CompTIA Security+: A globally recognized certification that validates foundational skills in cybersecurity, including network security, compliance, operational security, threats, vulnerabilities, and identity management.
• ISC² Certified in Cybersecurity (CC): A globally recognized entry-level certification validating foundational cybersecurity knowledge, including threat mitigation, network defense, and incident response principles.
• Google Cybersecurity Certificate: A comprehensive program covering essential cybersecurity practices, including threat detection, network protection, and digital risk management, to enhance security measures in family law and privacy practices.
• Cisco Ethical Hacker: An advanced certification emphasizing offensive security and penetration testing skills, equipping me with the expertise to identify and mitigate potential threats effectively.
• EC-Council Cybersecurity Attack and Defense Fundamentals: A comprehensive certification focusing on foundational ethical hacking concepts, including network vulnerabilities, penetration testing techniques, and digital forensics.
• University of Pennsylvania Privacy Law and Data Protection: This comprehensive certification covers both general privacy law principles and HIPAA-specific regulations, demonstrating expertise in data protection, privacy compliance, and healthcare information privacy laws.