What Karen Pinkert-Lieb's Recognition Means for High-Net-Worth Divorce in Chicago

When a senior partner at one of Chicago's most prestigious family law firms gets recognized, it's worth paying attention. Karen Pinkert-Lieb's recent acknowledgment at Schiller DuCanto & Fleck isn't just industry news—it's a window into where high-net-worth divorce practice is heading.

I've been watching this space for years, and when top-tier firms make moves or celebrate milestones, it usually signals something bigger happening in our industry. Here's what this recognition tells us about the current state of complex divorce work in Chicago, and what it means for you if you're facing a high-asset divorce.

The Chicago Family Law Landscape Is Getting More Competitive

Recognition like this doesn't happen in a vacuum. It reflects the increasingly sophisticated nature of high-net-worth divorce work. We're seeing more complex asset structures, cryptocurrency holdings, international business interests, and intricate custody arrangements involving private schools and multiple residences.

What this means for you: The bar is getting higher for family law attorneys. If you're dealing with substantial assets, you need someone who stays current with these evolving complexities. The days of hiring any family lawyer and hoping for the best are long gone.

Experience Still Matters Most

Here's what I've learned after handling hundreds of high-asset divorces: recognition follows results. Senior partners at established firms like Schiller DuCanto don't get highlighted unless they've consistently delivered for clients facing the most challenging situations.

In our practice, we see clients who've been burned by attorneys who looked good on paper but lacked the real-world experience to handle complex financial structures or high-conflict custody disputes. The recognition of seasoned practitioners signals that experience isn't just valued—it's essential.

What This Means for Your Case Strategy

If you're currently going through or considering divorce, this industry movement toward recognizing deep expertise should influence how you choose representation:

Look beyond marketing. Firms are investing heavily in their reputations because the stakes are higher than ever. Don't be swayed by flashy websites or promises that sound too good to be true.

Ask specific questions. How many cases like yours has your potential attorney handled? What's their track record with similar asset levels? Can they walk you through recent outcomes without breaking confidentiality?

Understand the team approach. High-net-worth cases often require collaborative expertise—tax specialists, forensic accountants, child psychologists. Top firms have these relationships already established.

The Real Impact on Chicago Divorce Practice

Recognition like Pinkert-Lieb's reflects a broader trend I'm seeing: family law is becoming more specialized and more strategic. The attorneys getting acknowledged are those who understand that every high-asset divorce is really about three things: protecting wealth, preserving relationships (especially with children), and planning for the future.

This isn't about winning or losing anymore—it's about smart resolution that serves everyone's long-term interests.

What You Should Do Next

If you're dealing with significant assets, business ownership, or complex custody issues, this news should reinforce something important: you need an attorney who operates at this level of recognition and expertise.

But here's the thing I tell every client: the right attorney for you isn't necessarily the one getting the most press. It's the one who understands your specific situation, has handled similar cases successfully, and can explain their strategy clearly.

The recognition of established practitioners like Pinkert-Lieb raises the profile of our entire field. That's good for everyone—but it also means you need to be more discerning about who you trust with your family's future.

Moving Forward

The Chicago family law community is evolving, and that evolution benefits clients who know what to look for. Industry recognition signals expertise, but your choice should ultimately come down to who you trust to protect what matters most to you.

If you're facing a complex divorce situation, don't let industry news overwhelm you. Use it as a reminder that experienced, recognized expertise exists—and that you deserve nothing less.

Written by Jonathan D. Steele

Chicago divorce attorney with cybersecurity certifications (Security+, CEH, ISC2). Illinois Super Lawyers Rising Star 2016-2025.

Free Consultation

For more insights, read our Divorce Decoded blog.